SAR Coordination Mate

MSF is an international, independent medical humanitarian organization. We are a non-profit, self-governed worldwide movement of more than 63,000 people.

We provide emergency medical assistance during armed conflict, natural disasters, outbreaks of deadly diseases and assist those who are excluded from healthcare. MSF delivers care based on need and when we see injustice, we speak out. We are an organization that remains impartial, knowledgeable, and effective, and this is what makes the difference between life and death.

People are our priority. At Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)/ Artsen zonder Grenzen, we are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages and supports the diverse voices of our employees.   We encourage diverse applicants including individuals of all gender identities, ages, sexual orientations, nationalities, races, religions, beliefs, social and marital status, people with different abilities and all other diversity characteristics and how they work together.

MSF-Netherlands in Italy coordinates the Search and Rescue operations in the central Mediterranean which provide lifesaving activities and basic assistance operating with the Geo Barents ship.

From March 2026, for 9 months, MSF OCA – High Seas Mission, is looking for 

SAR Coordinator Mate (100%)

home port in Sicily – periods on board and period on shore at home

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

Specific Accountabilities

• 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

Candidate Profile 

We offer 

A German maritime employment contract from March 2026 for 9 months.

The proposed tandem rhythm consists of approximately 8 weeks of deployment followed by 4 weeks of rest at home. The first and last weeks of deployment will be flexible to accommodate operational timelines and handovers, ensuring predictable schedules for the four weeks of rest at home.

Application 

If you recognise yourself in this profile, we welcome you to apply via email, sending CV + Letter of Motivation (in English) to sar-jobs@oca.msf.org - Subject: “SARCO_your Surname”.

Please, we kindly ask you to indicate Availability, 2 contacts of references and certificates held.

Please note that only candidates that fully meet the requirements of the position will be taken into consideration. 

***No agencies please***