Working in humanitarian aid can be one of the most rewarding careers, offering the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by crises. However, breaking into this field can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to start. This guide will help you navigate the process of finding humanitarian aid jobs, whether you’re an experienced professional or just beginning your journey.
Step 1: Understand the Sector
Before diving into job applications, it’s crucial to understand the humanitarian aid sector. This includes:
Types of Humanitarian Work
- Emergency Response: Responding to natural disasters, conflicts, or disease outbreaks.
- Development Aid: Long-term projects like education, health, and infrastructure.
- Advocacy and Policy: Working on campaigns, research, and influencing policy.
Key Employers
- International NGOs: MSF (Doctors Without Borders), Red Cross/Red Crescent, CARE, Save the Children, Oxfam, and Plan International
- NGOs
- Government Agencies: USAID, OFDA, DFID, AusAID
- ThinkTanks: Overseas Development Institute (ODI), International Crisis Group (ICG)
- Emergency Response Agencies
Step 2: Build Relevant Skills
Humanitarian aid jobs often require specific skills. Here’s how to prepare:
Essential Skills
- Technical Expertise: Specialized knowledge in areas like healthcare, logistics, water and sanitation (WASH), or engineering can open doors to certain roles. However, many positions don’t require technical skills. For example, program assistants, coordinators, or administrators provide vital support to ensure technical teams can focus on their work.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in languages such as French, Arabic, or Spanish can be a valuable asset, though sometimes English may only be required depending on your function and location of work. I work for the United Nations (P3) and speak only English. It’s a common misconception that you need to be multilingual to work at the UN – it often depends on the terms of the contract and the specific requirements of the country office.
- Cultural Competence: Ability to work in diverse and challenging environments.
Education and Training
- Degrees: Consider focusing on more specialized programs rather than general ones like international development or humanitarian action, as they may not provide in-depth expertise in a specific field. Degrees in law, medicine, public health, social work, psychology, economics, public relations, communications, or engineering are strong options that can enhance your expertise.
- Specialized Courses: Certifications in humanitarian logistics, SPHERE standards, or emergency response.
- Online Platforms: Explore free or low-cost courses on platforms like Coursera, Humanitarian Leadership Academy, or DisasterReady.
Step 3: Gain Experience
Experience is often a prerequisite for humanitarian aid jobs. Start by:
Volunteering
- Organizations like the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, or local NGOs often offer volunteer roles.
- Platforms like Idealist.org and UN Volunteers list opportunities.
- Additionally, don’t overlook the value of volunteering at home with local community groups. Your experience closer to home matters too.
Internships
- Many NGOs and UN agencies offer internships that provide hands-on experience. Check out my guide to UN internships.
Field Experience
Look for entry-level roles within your own field of expertise to gain on-the-ground experience. For example, nurses might start as medical assistants in field clinics, while engineers could support infrastructure projects. These positions allow you to contribute your existing skills while gaining familiarity with humanitarian operations. If you’re open to cross-functional roles, consider opportunities like project assistants or field support staff. Short-term missions with organizations like MSF or regional NGOs can also be a great way to enter the sector and build valuable experience.
Step 4: Search for Job Opportunities
Now that you have the skills and experience, it’s time to find jobs.
Top Job Boards
- ReliefWeb: Comprehensive listings of humanitarian jobs.
- Devex: Focused on international development and humanitarian aid.
- UN Careers: Listings for UN agencies.
- NGO Recruitment: A great resource for NGO roles.
- LinkedIn: Search for “humanitarian aid jobs” and connect with professionals in the field.
Networking
- Attend conferences like the Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Week (HNPW).
- Join professional groups on LinkedIn or humanitarian-focused Facebook communities.
- Reach out to professionals in the field for informational interviews.
Step 5: Tailor Your Application
Competition for humanitarian aid jobs can be fierce. Stand out by:
Crafting a Strong CV
- Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and certifications.
- Use keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Writing a Compelling Cover Letter
- Explain why you’re passionate about humanitarian aid.
- Demonstrate how your skills align with the organization’s mission.
Preparing for Interviews
- Research the organization’s recent projects.
- Be ready to discuss how you’ve adapted to challenging situations.
- If preparing for a UN competency-based interview, check out my post here.
Step 6: Stay Resilient
Breaking into the humanitarian field can take time. While you’re waiting:
- Continue volunteering or pursuing certifications.
- Stay updated on global crises and humanitarian trends.
- Build your network by attending webinars or joining online forums.
Additional Resources
- How to Get a Job at the United Nations
- How to Get a Job at an International NGO
- A Comprehensive Guide to the United Nations Volunteers Program
- Books: Humanitarian Negotiations Revealed by MSF, Emergency Sex and Other Desperate Measures by Hein, Post, and Thomson. – These are NOT affiliate links
- Websites: The Sphere Handbook, ALNAP.
- Podcasts: The New Humanitarian Podcast, Aid Worker’s Guide.
Final Thoughts
Finding a job in humanitarian aid may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and persistence, you can build a meaningful career. Focus on developing key skills, gaining hands-on experience, and networking within the sector. Remember, every experienced humanitarian aid worker began their journey from somewhere – and so will you.
Have questions or need further guidance? Drop a comment or explore more resources on The Global Humanitarian.
You can also follow me on Instagram @the.global.humanitarian.
Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.