About Company
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, is an independent international medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters, and exclusion from healthcare. Operating in over 70 countries worldwide, MSF provides assistance based on need, irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), MSF has a long-standing presence, responding to diverse humanitarian crises including outbreaks of disease, malnutrition, and conflict-related displacement. Our teams in the Kasaï-Central Province are particularly focused on providing essential medical care, nutritional support, and public health initiatives to vulnerable communities, often working in challenging and remote environments. We are committed to alleviating suffering and restoring dignity through direct medical action and advocacy.
Job Description
The Medical Outreach Worker – Field Assistance plays a critical role in extending MSF’s medical humanitarian footprint directly into communities within Kananga and its surrounding areas in the Kasaï-Central Province. This position is the frontline of our engagement, responsible for identifying medical needs, facilitating access to healthcare services, and promoting essential health messages among at-risk populations who often face significant barriers to care. You will be instrumental in conducting community-level assessments, providing basic first aid and health education tailored to local contexts, and ensuring timely and appropriate referrals of patients to MSF-supported or other relevant medical facilities. This role demands exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a strong commitment to humanitarian principles. You will work closely with medical teams, logisticians, and community leaders, often operating in challenging and dynamic environments characterized by limited infrastructure and potential security concerns. Your daily activities will include systematic household visits, organizing and conducting informal health screenings, distributing vital information on hygiene practices, common disease prevention (e.g., malaria, cholera, measles), maternal and child health, and available medical services. You will also assist with the logistical aspects of setting up and operating mobile clinics or outreach points, ensuring supplies are available and operations run smoothly. Furthermore, you will be responsible for collecting and reporting basic health data from the field, contributing to a better understanding of community health needs and the effectiveness of our interventions. The ability to build trust and communicate effectively across diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, particularly in local languages, is paramount. This position offers a unique opportunity to directly impact the lives of those most in need, working as part of a dedicated and passionate international team committed to saving lives and alleviating suffering.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct regular community outreach activities to identify health needs and vulnerable populations.
- Provide basic health education on topics such as hygiene, disease prevention, nutrition, and maternal/child health.
- Perform initial health screenings and provide basic first aid as appropriate.
- Facilitate timely referrals of patients requiring further medical attention to relevant health facilities.
- Distribute informational materials, essential non-food items, or medical supplies as directed.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, local authorities, and community members.
- Collect and accurately record basic health data from outreach activities.
- Assist medical and logistics teams in setting up and dismantling mobile clinics or outreach points.
- Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to activity planning and reporting.
- Adhere strictly to MSF's protocols, guidelines, and humanitarian principles.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in community mobilization, outreach, or field assistance.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly.
- Strong understanding of local culture and traditions, with demonstrated cultural sensitivity.
- Fluency in French and Lingala or Tshiluba (local languages) is essential.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in challenging environments.
- Basic knowledge of public health principles and common local diseases.
- Physical stamina and willingness to work in remote areas and adverse conditions.
- Problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing situations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Diploma or certification in a health-related field (e.g., nursing assistant, community health worker).
- Previous experience working with an international NGO or humanitarian organization.
- Knowledge of basic first aid and emergency care.
- Familiarity with data collection tools and basic reporting.
- Valid motorcycle driving license.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to make a tangible difference in vulnerable communities.
- Challenging and rewarding work environment.
- Comprehensive health insurance and welfare package.
- Opportunities for professional development and training within MSF.
- Supportive and diverse international team.
- Field allowances and security support in accordance with MSF policies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly through our official careers portal by clicking the link below. Please ensure your CV and cover letter clearly demonstrate your suitability for this role, highlighting your experience in community outreach and humanitarian work.