Aid/humanitarian work

What it involves

Employers of aid workers include charities, international NGOs (non-governmental organisations), private trusts/foundations and voluntary/non-profit making organisations. Responsibilities of the job vary considerably according to the nature of the emergency/situation, but can include:

• rapidly assessing emergency situations;
• working closely with staff located within the area or other emergency departments;
• co-ordinating and supporting the work of volunteers;
• managing budgets;
• managing the implementation of emergency activities and monitoring their effectiveness;
• producing response reports, recommendations and proposals for emergency intervention;
• developing and monitoring objectives;
• liaising with United Nations agencies, government officials, other NGO staff etc;
• recruiting/managing local staff;
• organising induction, support and training for volunteers/other aid workers;
• implementing, overseeing and ensuring strict adherence with security/safety procedures;
• ensuring knowledge of and compliance with appropriate national and international procedures, policies and regulatory codes;
• making representations to donors, local authorities and humanitarian community members; and
• producing funding proposals.

What's required

It is vital to have an appreciation of the needs and priorities of disadvantaged populations.

Strong competition for a small number of opportunities makes relevant work experience and knowledge more important than academic qualifications. Substantial paid or voluntary emergency and development work experience is almost always necessary. Many paid opportunities require at least three years' experience – charities and volunteer bureaux can provide work experience placements (although often unpaid). 

Employers look for enthusiastic, committed candidates with excellent interpersonal, analytical, planning, time management, negotiation and communication skills. Good spoken and written English is essential. Computer literacy and a working knowledge of other languages can be advantageous. Potential employees must also possess tact, diplomacy and discretion and be capable of working well with others in an efficient, systematic and organised way. It is vital to have an appreciation of the needs and priorities of disadvantaged populations and sensitivity to cultural differences.

Where to find out more

Paid vacancies attract strong competition – most people working in such positions begin as volunteers. Relevant Internet sites offer the best sources of vacancy information – most major aid agencies provide details about voluntary work and internships in addition to adverts for paid jobs. Some organisations offer free e-mail notification of new vacancies. Opportunities are also advertised by careers services, in newspapers and specialist publications. Many jobs receive little advertising, so networking and speculative applications are advisable.