TOP > OVERSEAS FIELD WORK WITH MSF JAPAN > Terms of employment
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
ALLOWANCE AND EXPENSES
- Most field workers are given a fixed period contract (usually 6-12 months)
- In the first 12 months of field work those without humanitarian experience receive a monthly allowance of approximately JPY 147,000 (less tax)
- MSF provides 25 days paid holidays per year (or pro rata equivalent)
- MSF covers the cost of living and accommodation in the project country as well as transportation costs to and from the mission.
- MSF covers the cost of vaccinations and medical check
- MSF covers other administrative expenses eg visas, certified copies of qualifications etc.
INSURANCE
- MSF insures all field workers for health (for mission plus three months), medical repatriation, and death and disability for the period of their mission.
- MSF contributes on your behalf (for Japan residents) to Japan national social and employment insurance (for missions longer than two months)
WORKING HOURS
These vary considerably depending on the project and the period. During an emergency work can be hectic and hours long. However, time is normally set aside for necessary rest and relaxation.
OTHER BENEFITS
Besides these practical considerations, there is the intangible benefit that working for MSF is a challenging and rewarding personal and professional experience that allows you to help people in a very real way.
CAREER WITH MSF
MSF encourages people to continue working for the organisation beyond their first mission, and we offer various career opportunities. As well as a salary scale that reflects field experience, a wide range of training courses are available. You can also broaden your professional experience by working on different programs in different contexts, where conditions and your responsibilities vary - nutrition programs, drug distribution programs, training programs, in conflict areas, refugee camps, etc. Gaining more and varied MSF field experience makes you eligible for positions such as Logistical, Medical, or Project Coordinator, or Head of Mission. MSF experience is valuable in a career in the broader NGO community.
