The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a globally recognized humanitarian organization providing emergency relief, resettlement assistance, and long-term development support to people affected by conflict, natural disasters, and displacement. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC has grown into one of the most influential international NGOs, operating in over 40 countries worldwide.
In Ethiopia, the IRC has been active for decades, responding to humanitarian needs arising from drought, conflict, and refugee influxes. The organization’s programs cover health, water and sanitation, education, economic recovery, and protection for vulnerable groups. With a strong presence in multiple regions, the IRC continues to be a leading employer in the humanitarian sector, offering both local and international career opportunities.
For August 2025, the IRC has announced several key vacancies in Ethiopia. Below is a detailed look at the most recent openings, their requirements, and how to apply.
- Humanitarian Safety & Security Manager
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Updated: August 2, 2025
The Humanitarian Safety & Security Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of IRC staff, assets, and operations. This position requires a candidate with proven expertise in security risk management, preferably within humanitarian or conflict-affected settings. The role involves designing and implementing comprehensive security management systems, conducting regular risk assessments, training staff on safety protocols, and liaising with local authorities, security networks, and other NGOs to maintain situational awareness.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in Security Management, International Relations, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant security experience is required, preferably within an NGO or humanitarian organization. Strong knowledge of security challenges in Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa region, combined with excellent communication and decision-making skills, is essential.
- Health Coordinator
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Updated: August 2, 2025
The Health Coordinator is responsible for leading the planning, implementation, and monitoring of health programs across IRC’s operational areas in Ethiopia. This senior-level position requires collaboration with technical teams, government health offices, and international donors. The role involves overseeing health and nutrition projects, ensuring compliance with international and national health standards, coordinating emergency health interventions, managing budgets, and supporting proposal development.
Required Qualifications:
An advanced degree in Public Health, Medicine, or Nursing is required, along with a minimum of five years of progressive experience in health program management. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in emergency health programming, maternal and child health, and nutrition services, as well as the ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders, including government officials and community leaders.
- Senior Business Development Manager
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Updated: July 31, 2025
The Senior Business Development Manager leads IRC’s fundraising and donor engagement strategy in Ethiopia, a role central to sustaining and expanding the organization’s humanitarian and development programs. Responsibilities include identifying new funding opportunities, building and maintaining relationships with donors, leading proposal development efforts, and ensuring proposals align with donor priorities while remaining technically sound.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates should hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in International Development, Business Administration, or a related field, with at least seven years of experience in business development or fundraising within the NGO sector. Strong writing and editing skills, networking abilities, and experience preparing competitive donor proposals are essential.
IRC’s Impact in Ethiopia
The IRC has a long-standing presence in Ethiopia, with offices and field operations in regions such as Oromia, Somali, Tigray, and Gambella. Over the years, the organization has responded to emergencies like droughts, floods, and conflicts, while supporting long-term recovery and development programs. Health programs have delivered life-saving care to thousands of children and mothers. Water and sanitation initiatives have ensured clean water access in remote areas, while protection programs safeguard the rights and wellbeing of women, children, and displaced persons.
Application Process
Applying for an IRC job in Ethiopia is straightforward, but competition is high. Candidates are encouraged to carefully read each job description and ensure they meet all minimum qualifications before applying. Applications are submitted through the Official IRC Careers Portal at https://careers.rescue.org. Candidates should prepare a tailored CV and cover letter that highlight achievements and experience directly relevant to the position. Applications must be submitted before the stated deadline; late applications will not be considered. Following up professionally, where appropriate, can demonstrate interest and diligence.
Tips for a Strong Application
Successful candidates should focus on highlighting their relevant achievements rather than simply listing responsibilities. Using keywords from the job description, showing understanding of Ethiopia’s humanitarian landscape, and including strong professional references will strengthen an application. It is also recommended to prepare for interviews and written assessments, if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the IRC hire both local and international staff in Ethiopia?
Yes, the IRC recruits both Ethiopian nationals and international professionals depending on the position requirements. - Are IRC jobs only based in Addis Ababa?
No. While some roles are based in Addis Ababa, many require deployment to field operations in various regions. - Is humanitarian experience mandatory for all positions?
Not for every role, but experience in humanitarian or development work is a strong advantage. - How competitive is the recruitment process?
Highly competitive. The IRC receives a large number of applications for each vacancy, so well-prepared, error-free applications are essential.
Purpose of This Post
This IRC job vacancy post has been carefully prepared by Addis Zemen Vacancy, a trusted source dedicated to providing accurate and reliable employment information for Ethiopia. Our aim is to make opportunities easy to access, clearly presented, and practical for job seekers. All original information has been verified from official sources and career portals to ensure authenticity.
In addition to the vacancy details, we provide tools and guidance to increase a candidate’s chance of success. We clearly highlight whether deadlines are new, active, or expired, helping applicants focus on open opportunities. We organize company and role information comprehensively, including responsibilities, qualifications, benefits, and application methods.
We also provide CV preparation guidance, interview strategies, and exam tips for those applying to positions that require assessments. Our goal is to support candidates in submitting professional, well-prepared applications that increase their likelihood of securing interviews. Guidance on tailoring CVs, writing cover letters, and preparing for assessments is available via our resources:
Interview Preparation Guide – Tips for Success in Ethiopia 2025
How to Prepare for an Exam: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Write a Professional CV in Ethiopia
Candidates are advised to submit applications through official portals only, avoid third-party intermediaries, and verify deadlines. Expired opportunities are clearly noted with their original publishing dates to prevent confusion. We emphasize inclusivity, encouraging women, youth, and individuals from underrepresented regions to apply.
By combining verified job listings with practical career guidance, Addis Zemen Vacancy ensures job seekers have the information, tools, and confidence needed to pursue meaningful careers in Ethiopia’s humanitarian and development sectors.
Source: Official IRC Careers Portal and verified organizational announcements https://careers.rescue.org
Prepared by: Addis Zemen Vacancy
Date: August 2025