Background

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is a leading international independent medical humanitarian organisation, dedicated to providing expert medical relief to vulnerable populations at times of conflict or disaster. In over 71 countries worldwide, MSF provides both life-saving emergency relief and longer-term assistance to make basic healthcare services available to the most vulnerable or excluded communities.  MSF Netherlands in Italy coordinates the Search and Rescue operations in the central Mediterranean which provide lifesaving activities and basic assistance.

Scope and objectives of the position

MSF Netherlands is looking for Search and Rescue professionals with a strong expertise in maritime sector. In particular, the SARCo is responsible for the implementation of Search and Rescue activities and providing direction to the whole team. During patrol and SAR operations, the SARCo works in close cooperation with the Skipper and the Medical Team Leader. The SARCo is in charge of the strategic overview of the rescue operation, and may delegate with appropriate instructions, tactical and operational tasks to the RHIB Team. The SARCo is responsible for training and developing the whole team in rescue procedures and ship rescue response. The SARCo is not part of the marine crew but following the instructions of the skipper, supports all maritime and navigational operations and tasks (watch keeping, mooring/unmooring operations, etc.).

Main responsibilities

  • Prepare daily navigational plans towards the SAR zone and once inside the SAR zone, based on open alerts, presence of other assets, weather conditions and any other factors that may apply, in collaboration with the Skipper.
  • Responsible for the implementation of the SAR activities. Oversee and lead rescue operations from the ship.
  • Accountable for all SAR-related communications with authorities and NGOs: ensure that standard communications with authorities are followed step by step, that written communications are accurate and legally sound. If requested, answer questions from the authorities at disembarkation regarding the rescue operations
  • Owner of the Search and Rescue standard procedures; lead on the update of the document as well as on the definition of training and equipment needs to conduct the activity. Responsible for the implementation of the SAR SOPs on board and for informing the back-office and Project coordinator during operations.
  • Monitor incoming SAR distress alerts and take part in the assessment of the response in collaboration with the Skipper.
  • Design training modules for the team on the different aspects of search and rescue, organise theoretical briefings and practical trainings. Regularly review trainings to ensure that they are suitable for the needs of the team and avoid redundancy.
  • Together with the skipper, define the boat’s rescue set-up and ensure its readiness to perform rescue operations.
  • Ensure the safety of team members during SAR operations, identifying and implementing correct procedures, safety measures and appropriate training.
  • Together with Skipper and Medical Team Leader, organise the team to cover SAR watches and deck watches, taking into account the specific needs related to the team or the survivors on board.
  • Collaborate with skipper during the rescue operation, taking the lead to guide the team during the rescue. Support the skipper in analysing the security context surrounding a rescue operation, and if needed negotiate with armed actors.
  • Responsible for the ordering of rescue equipment in coordination with the skipper.
  • Participate in the development of the strategic vision for the project advising Skipper, PC and SAR Rep, identify opportunities and make propositions to ensure the operational model remains adapted to the context and the needs.

Data collection

  • Ensure that documentation devices on board are working properly and that evidence is systematically reviewed and saved in the appropriate locations.
  • Train the team in the use of the automatic SAR logbook, review and clean the file at the end of each rotation.
  • Debrief with PC and HAO to point out events of interest for advocacy.
  • Lead and document the debriefing about the rescue operations performed.

Survivor care

  • Support the team in survivor caring on deck, including distributions, cleaning, activities.

General

  • Take part in activities to re-set the ship at the end of the rotation, including deck and material cleaning, re-supply, debriefings.
  • Ensure continuity and handover with the next SARCo.
  • May cover back-office duties on land in rotation with other staff members.
  • Compliance with MSF Code of conduct and respect of MSF policies and procedures

Specific Accountabilities

  • This position is on tandem, meaning that there are two members of staff alternating on the same position. Each in-project deployment period is of approximately 6 weeks where the staff is based in the home port in Sicily and embarking on the ship for the operational rotations, followed by the off-project period composed of 4 weeks of rest at home.
  • This position is partly on board a ship and partly working on land. Staff must be “sea worthy”, and be willing to take an active part in the rescues, the care for survivors and the maintenance of the ship. Be aware that seasickness can be significant. Working and living on a ship and going out on the RHIB in poor weather conditions for extended period of time requires a certain level of fitness. Each team member must be able to swim.
  • The living conditions aboard the ship are rudimentary, cabins are shared with several people, a toilet and shower is shared between all the crew staff, with no possibility to ensure single-gender facilities. Rooms and bathrooms on land may also be shared.
  • All staff is expected to contribute to the operations and chores on the ship, both at sea and while in port. This includes irregular shifts and night shifts, manual and heavy work within and beyond your own job responsibilities.
  • Whilst the team is divided in several departments, all team members work closely together and wear several hats; collaboration and overall vision are essential to ensure that we offer the best care possible to the survivors.
  • In the last years, SAR NGOs have been faced with targeted obstructions of their work, in a very politicised context. The operational space can evolve quickly, activities may be blocked for legal, political or technical reasons, therefore there may not always be visibility on operations.
  • Journalists will regularly be present on the ship; staff may be asked to give interviews or be photographed during their work.

 

Requirements

Certification

Required:

  • STCW Basic Safety training and Security awareness.
  • Medical Certificate for Seafarers.
  • Certificate of Competency Deck officer or strong maritime experience in an operational role at sea.

Desirable:

  • Nautical license beyond 12nm
  • STCW IV/2 - GMDSS Radio Operators an added value

Experience
  • Minimum 2 years in a leading role in maritime SAR operations.
  • Working in Emergency contexts.

Languages
  • English fluent. Italian, French and Arabic a plus.

Knowledge
  • Search and rescue procedures.
  • Strong knowledge of associated maritime conventions (UNCLOS, SAR and SOLAS Conventions) as well as good understanding of SAR context in the Central Mediterranean IAMSAR related knowledge.
  • Working offshore; mechanics and Rhib repair a plus

Competencies
  • Team management.
  • Experience in navigation.
  • Strong communication skills including report writing.
  • Computer literacy is essential.
  • Experience in negotiation is a plus.
  • Ability to work in stressful situations and make critical decisions.

 

Conditions

MSF is looking for 2 SAR COORDINATOR positions available from March 2026 (9 Months).

The candidate must hold a valid work permit to work in Italy.

Application procedure: To apply for this role, please submit your application via email to 

sar-jobs@oca.msf.org

Subject: “SARCO_your Surname”

Attaching

  • motivation letter and CV updated (both in English) by specifying the certificates held
  • 2 contacts of reference of your line managers
  • Periods of availability

Application deadline: 22/11/2025

Please note that the selection may be closed early if a suitable candidate is identified

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Applicants not invited for interview within 2 months from the closure of the vacancy may consider their applications unsuccessful.

MSF-Netherlands is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No employee, or applicant for employment, shall be discriminated against in any term or condition of employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or sexual orientation. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values. We expect this same commitment from our staff.