Telcommunication Advisor

GENERAL CONTEXT

Médecins Sans Frontières is an international independent medical-humanitarian organization, which offers assistance to populations in distress, to victims of natural or man-made disasters and to victims of armed conflict, without discrimination and irrespective of race, religion, creed or political affiliation. Each individual working with MSF does it out of conviction and is ready to uphold the values and principles of MSF. The MSF movement is built around six operational directorates. MSF OCBA is one of those directorates. The operations are implemented by field teams and the mission coordination teams; together with the organizational units based in Barcelona and decentralized in Nairobi, Dakar and Amman. The field operations are guided and supported by 5 Operational Cells, the Emergency Unit and other departments supporting operations, including the HR Department.

MAIN PURPOSE

Ensure reliable, secure, and efficient telecommunications across OCBA missions by providing technical expertise, strategic planning, and operational support. Define and revise telecom strategies to adapt to diverse mission contexts and ensure sustainable asset and waste management.

CONTEXT OF THE POST

As part of OCBA’s Logistics Department, the Telecom Expert ensures the deployment and maintenance of telecom systems in field missions. The role involves 40% field presence and focuses on technical support, strategic planning, training, and supervision of mission ICT teams. The position contributes to operational efficiency, safety, and innovation in telecommunications across OCBA missions.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND MAIN TASKS

1. Technical Support & Troubleshooting

• Provide remote and on-site support for telecom systems (radio, satellite, PTT, tracking).
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues to minimize downtime.
• Liaise with service providers for maintenance and warranty support.
• Monitor external service disruptions and communicate updates to missions.

2. System Installation & Maintenance

• Oversee installation, configuration, and maintenance of telecom equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety, security, and technical standards.

3. Strategy & Standardization

• Define and revise telecom strategies adapted to mission contexts.
• Develop and maintain SOPs and standard configurations.
• Support mission planning during Annual Plans, Mid-Year Reviews, and transitions.

4. Asset & Waste Management

• Manage telecom equipment lifecycle from reception to disposal.
• Maintain accurate inventories and identify items for redeployment or disposal.
• Ensure sustainable and compliant waste management practices.

5. Innovation & Evaluation

• Evaluate emerging technologies and propose operational enhancements.
• Contribute to the Intersectional Working Group and external partnerships.

6. Procurement & Supply

• Advise on procurement specifications and validate suppliers.
• Ensure timely dispatch and activation/deactivation of telecom assets.
• Participate in tenders and maintain procurement records.

7. Training & Capacity Building

• Deliver training and develop materials for field staff.
• Support local staff development through mentoring and learning initiatives.

8. Supervision & Development

• Supervise and mentor MSTs and ICT team members.
• Promote knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and adherence to standards.
• Conduct performance reviews and identify growth opportunities.

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Degree in Telecommunications, IT, or related field (essential).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in telecom systems support, preferably in humanitarian or field contexts.

• English (essential); French and Spanish (desirable).

• Telecom systems (radio, satellite, PTT), tracking technologies, SOP development, asset management.

CONDITIONS

• Position based in any MSF-OCBA Hub: Amman, Bogotá, Dakar, Nairobi, Barcelona or Madrid. Final location will be subject to the employability of the preselected candidate (e.g., residency, work permit, etc.).
• Permanent Position.
• Full-time position.
• Annual gross salary: HQ - 4A level + secondary benefits based on MSF OCBA Reward Policy. Subjected to local conditions.
• Starting date: December 2025 – January 2026.

HOW TO APPLY

• To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter.
• Closing date: November 16th, 2025, 23:59 CET (Central European Time).

MSF is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, race, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We are committed to achieving a balanced gender distribution and therefore encourage women to apply.

All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. MSF provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, integrity and a healthy balance of work and life. MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo reference checks.

Médecins Sans Frontières, as a responsible employer, under the¨Ley General de la Discapacidad de 2013 (LGD)¨ invite those persons with a recognized disability and with an interest in the humanitarian area to apply for the above-mentioned position.