Education:

Advanced Diploma (Level IV/10+3) in relevant fields (Check details)

About the Organization

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Switzerland is an international, independent medical humanitarian organization that provides assistance to populations in distress, victims of natural or man-made disasters, and victims of armed conflict. The organization operates according to the values of neutrality and impartiality, delivering emergency aid irrespective of race, religion, creed, or political affiliation. MSF is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that encourages diverse voices and maintains a safe organizational environment built on respect, tolerance, and inclusion.

The workplace at MSF is designed to be a safe and supportive space for all staff and partners, wherever they are located. We prioritize a culture of sincerity and integrity, ensuring that our humanitarian actions are supported by transparent and accountable administrative processes. Joining MSF offers professionals the opportunity to work within a prestigious global network dedicated to medical ethics and life-saving humanitarian action.

Professional development and excellence are central to MSF’s operational model. Staff members are expected to uphold MSF principles while contributing to the optimal running of projects through specialized supply and purchasing expertise. Our team in Nekemte plays a vital role in ensuring that essential goods and commodities are available to support our medical interventions.

MSF Switzerland is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity across all characteristics, including gender, age, and nationality. We explicitly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions. By joining MSF, you become part of a dedicated team working to ensure that high-quality aid reaches those who need it most.

Job Description and Strategic Impact

The Purchasing Officer is responsible for performing day-to-day purchasing activities at the supply office level to ensure the optimal running of the project. This role involves analyzing market sources, negotiating competitive pricing, and assessing local suppliers to guarantee the best value for money for MSF goods. By maintaining an ongoing supply of commodities according to MSF protocols, the Purchasing Officer directly enables the mission's field activities.

The strategic impact of this role lies in its ability to navigate the local market while adhering to strict administrative, accounting, and legal procedures. The Purchasing Officer ensures that all procurement follows MSF standards, including the monitoring of delivery timelines and the quality control of purchased items. Their work in managing cash advances and verifying invoices ensures financial accountability and the reliable tracking of expenditures.

In the "day-in-the-life" of a Purchasing Officer, tasks include obtaining quotations, placing purchase orders with pre-selected suppliers, and ensuring the safe transportation of items—including cold chain management when required. They serve as a vital link between the Finance department and the Storekeeper, assisting in reception control to ensure the integrity of the supply chain. This position requires a proactive approach to supplier management and a commitment to maintaining accurate, up-to-date pricing data.

Professional growth in this position is supported by exposure to international procurement standards and the complexities of humanitarian logistics. Working at MSF provides a platform to refine negotiation skills and administrative expertise within a mission-driven environment. Joining our team means ensuring that the essential tools and materials needed for medical care are procured ethically and efficiently.

Job Positions and Requirements

Purchasing Officer

• Educational Qualification: Essential secondary education; commerce-related studies are desirable.

• Work Experience: At least 2 years of experience in supply chain-related jobs (such as Supply Officer, Purchaser, or equivalent).

• Languages: Essential proficiency in the mission working language (English) and local language (Amharic).

• Job Location: Nekemte, Ethiopia (MSF-Switzerland Office).

• Employment Type and Salary: Full-time; contract until 30 June 2027; Starting Base salary of USD 668 (payable in ETB).

Required Skills and Competencies

• Purchasing Skills: Expertise in assessing local markets, negotiating prices, and placing purchase orders according to policy.

• Administrative Accuracy: Ability to manage accounting procedures, check delivery notes, and verify tax/VAT compliance of invoices.

• Quality Control: Skills in monitoring delivery timelines, after-sales service, and assisting with stock reception control.

• Behavioral Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing project needs and work effectively under stress.

• Teamwork: Proficiency in collaborating with the Storekeeper, Finance department, and Logistics supervisors.

• Commitment: Strong alignment with MSF principles and a service-oriented mindset.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicants should submit their CV and application letter, including photocopies of all supporting documents, through the official online form. Please be informed that applications in any other form will not be accepted. MSF clarifies that scanned certificates or heavy attachments are NOT required during the initial phase; original documents will be requested only for short-listed candidates for physical verification during the assessment stage.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Sincerity is paramount, and the use of false documents will lead to automatic cancellation of the application or termination of employment if discovered later. By submitting your application, you consent to MSF using your data specifically for the recruitment process to validate your application and select the most suitable candidate.

Apply via the official link: PURCHASING OFFICER – Fill in form.

Application Deadline

May 16, 2026

Official Application Link / Contact

Official form link: Apply link.