How to Become a Humanitarian Worker: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you dream of helping people in crises and making an impact around the world, a career as a humanitarian worker might be for you. At Young and Hired, we guide young professionals like you through the process of breaking into this meaningful and competitive field.
Here’s what you need to know — and do — to start your journey.
1. Understand What Humanitarian Work Really Is
Humanitarian workers respond to emergencies — natural disasters, armed conflict, epidemics — and support vulnerable communities with food, shelter, healthcare, education, and protection.
It’s not just about “going to the field”: humanitarian organizations also need skilled professionals in logistics, HR, communications, finance, project management, and policy.
Some of the largest and most respected organizations include:
United Nations (OCHA, UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, IOM)
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)
Save the Children, CARE, Mercy Corps, NRC
2. Build Relevant Skills and Education
Most humanitarian roles require at least a bachelor’s degree, often in international relations, development, public health, logistics, communications, or a similar field. In addition, employers value:
Languages (especially French, Arabic, Spanish)
Project management skills (e.g., knowledge of Sphere standards, logical frameworks)
Soft skills: resilience, adaptability, cultural sensitivity, teamwork
You don’t need a master’s degree to start — but courses in humanitarian principles, human rights, or international law can help you stand out.
3. Gain Experience — Even if It’s Local
You don’t have to go abroad immediately to build your CV. Many humanitarian organizations value experience in community organizations, NGOs, and volunteer projects at home.
Volunteer or intern with NGOs, refugee centers, youth projects, or disaster response teams.
Look for entry-level roles like project assistant, field support officer, or logistics assistant.
Consider short-term deployments with agencies that welcome first-time responders.
Pro tip: even administrative jobs in these organizations are a way in.
4. Prepare a CV and Cover Letter That Stand Out
Your application should show you understand the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and highlight your experience in tough environments, cultural awareness, and motivation.
At Young and Hired, we help candidates craft CVs and cover letters tailored to humanitarian employers — because generic applications won’t get you far in this field.
5. Network and Stay Informed
Jobs are competitive — so build connections and stay updated:
Follow organizations and recruiters on LinkedIn.
Join humanitarian job boards (ReliefWeb, UN Careers, ImpactPool, Young And Hired).
Attend conferences, webinars, and local events to meet professionals in the field.
Becoming a humanitarian worker isn’t easy — but with commitment, preparation, and the right guidance, you can start making a difference.
If you’re serious about a humanitarian career, Young and Hired can help you prepare your CV, find the right opportunities, and navigate the application process.
Contact us today to set up a consultation — and take the first step toward your career in humanitarian work.