Healthcare & Nursing Jobs in Ethiopia 2025 | Career Opportunities Here

Apply for the latest Healthcare and Nursing Jobs opportunities in Ethiopia today. Ethiopia’s healthcare system is at a turning point. With a rapidly growing population and increasing health needs,  from maternal care to chronic disease management, the country is scaling up its medical services like never before. New hospitals are being built, more clinics are reaching remote areas, and investment in health programs is rising. But none of it works without people. That’s where you come in.

Whether you’re a newly trained nurse, an experienced doctor, a lab technician, or someone with a background in public health, there are meaningful roles across Ethiopia waiting to be filled. There are equally many organizations in Ethiopia offering Healthcare Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship, make the right move now.

This guide lays out everything you need to know: the top Healthcare and Nursing Jobs job roles in Ethiopia currently in demand, where to find them, what qualifications are needed, how much you can expect to earn, and a clear step by step guide to applying for Ethiopian Healthcare jobs vacancies. This isn’t just about landing a job, it’s about building a career that matters.

Current Healthcare and Nursing Jobs in Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s healthcare sector is expanding rapidly. As the population grows and health challenges diversify from infectious diseases to chronic illnesses there’s a clear demand for professionals across both urban and rural healthcare settings. Hospitals, clinics, NGOs, and public health initiatives are casting a wide net for skilled candidates. Here are the job categories currently in high demand:

1. Physicians and Clinical Officers

General practitioners and clinical officers are essential in both outpatient clinics and emergency departments. In rural and underserved regions, clinical officers trained for focused diagnostic and treatment delivery where doctors are scarce, play a vital role.

2. Registered Nurses & Specialist Nurses

From general nursing roles to ICU and neonatal nursing, hospitals and health centers are recruiting both diploma level and BSc trained nurses. Experienced professionals in critical care, maternal health, and emergency support are especially in demand in urban medical centers like those in Addis Ababa.

3. Midwives & Maternal Health Workers

Safe delivery and prenatal care are cornerstones of healthcare in Ethiopia. Certified midwives with practical experience are highly recruited by maternal health programs especially in rural districts and NGO supported outreach settings.

4. Diagnostic Lab Technologists & Imaging Staff

From blood tests to microbiology and radiology (X-ray, ultrasound), accurate diagnosis requires qualified lab staff and imaging technicians. Hospitals, private labs, and clinics in major cities all prioritize this role.

5. Pharmacy Professionals

Qualified pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are needed to manage medicine supplies and provide patient counseling. Both urban clinics and rural health posts rely on trained personnel to ensure drug safety and effective treatment advice.

6. Public Health Specialists & Field Coordinators

Large public health programs such as vaccination drives, nutrition campaigns, and disease control initiatives, seek graduates in public health, epidemiology, or community health. These roles often involve data analysis, community outreach, and field coordination.

7. Allied Health & Rehabilitation Professionals

With an increasing focus on post-treatment recovery and rehabilitation, there is growing demand for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and trauma support technicians. These roles are now integral parts of Ethiopia’s evolving healthcare infrastructure.

8. Mental Health Practitioners & Community Support Workers

Recognizing mental health as a rising priority, Ethiopian clinics and non-profits are hiring counselors, psychosocial support staff, and mental health outreach coordinators. Professionals trained in psychology or social work play a key role in supporting patient wellness across the country.

Top Healthcare Organizations Hiring in Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s healthcare workforce is shaped by a mix of public institutions, private providers, nonprofit organizations, and international health partners. If you’re looking to build a healthcare career here, these are the top employers and platforms actively hiring medical professionals across the country.

1. Ethiopian Ministry of Health (MoH): The Ministry leads the country’s public health system and hires the bulk of healthcare workers through regional health bureaus. From hospitals to health centers and rural clinics, the MoH recruits doctors, nurses, lab techs, midwives, pharmacists, and public health staff regularly especially through civil service postings.

2. St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC): One of Ethiopia’s leading teaching hospitals, SPHMMC offers jobs for clinicians, nurses, lab scientists, radiologists, and medical educators. Located in Addis Ababa, it combines service delivery with training and medical research.

3. Black Lion Hospital (Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital): As the largest referral hospital in the country, Black Lion recruits specialists, ICU staff, surgery teams, and allied professionals. The hospital is affiliated with Addis Ababa University and attracts both local and international medical staff.

4. International NGOs and Development Agencies: Several humanitarian and global health organizations are embedded within Ethiopia’s healthcare system. These include:

  • Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF): provides emergency medical care and regularly recruits physicians, nurses, midwives, and logisticians.
  • ICAP at Columbia University: supports HIV care and public health initiatives.
  • Jhpiego: focuses on maternal and child health, hiring trainers, program officers, and midwives.
  • Save the Children: runs nutrition and maternal health programs in underserved areas.
  • UNICEF Ethiopia: offers contracts for immunization specialists, health coordinators, and field consultants.

5. Private Hospitals and Specialty Clinics: A growing number of private hospitals in major cities like Addis Ababa and Hawassa are hiring healthcare professionals. Some notable names include:

  • Hallelujah General Hospital
  • CMC Hospital
  • Myung Sung Christian Medical Center (MCM Hospital)

These institutions often pay higher salaries and may require more experience or multilingual ability, particularly English.

6. Public Universities and Health Science Colleges: Universities such as Addis Ababa University, Jimma University, and Gondar University run medical schools and health science faculties. They employ lecturers, clinical instructors, research assistants, and trainers in medicine, nursing, and public health.

7. Faith Based and Community Health Organizations: Entities like the Ethiopian Catholic Secretariat Health Department and the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus Health Department are active in rural health delivery and hire nurses, midwives, and health extension workers for both facility based and outreach programs.

See also: Recruitment Agencies in Ethiopia for foreigners

Qualifications Needed to Work in Healthcare in Ethiopia

Starting a healthcare career in Ethiopia involves more than earning a diploma. To practice legally, professionals must complete formal education, pass national licensing exams, and register with the appropriate regulatory authorities. Below is a breakdown of what’s required for different roles in the sector:

1. Medical Doctors (General Practitioners & Specialists)

  • Graduate from an Accredited Medical School: Whether in Ethiopia or abroad, you must complete a recognized medical degree, such as MBBS or its equivalent.
  • Complete a Mandatory Internship: After graduation, you’ll spend approximately one year in supervised clinical training at a teaching hospital or approved facility.
  • Pass the Licensing Exam: Known as the Ethiopian Health Professionals Licensing Examination (EHPLE), this test validates your competence for safe medical practice.
  • Register with Health Authorities: Successful candidates must register with the Ministry of Health or regional licensing offices to obtain a legal permit to practice.
  •  Specialty Certification (if relevant): Physicians pursuing advanced fields like surgery or pediatrics must undergo accredited postgraduate training and renew their license accordingly.

2. Nurses and Midwives

  • Training Programs: Nursing and midwifery candidates need to complete either a diploma or bachelor’s degree program from a recognized institution.
  • Licensing Requirements: Like medical doctors, nurses and midwives must also sit for the EHPLE. The exam assesses knowledge and clinical readiness in core areas such as general nursing, maternity care, pediatric nursing, and more.
  • Professional Licensing: Upon passing the exam, individuals must register with the appropriate government body to receive a practice license.

3. Allied Health Professionals: This category includes professionals such as radiographers, laboratory scientists, physiotherapists, and environmental health technicians.

  • Education & Certification: A diploma or degree in your chosen field is required from a recognized training institution.
  • Licensing Exam: Most of these roles are now included in the EHPLE framework, and passing the appropriate section is required for registration.
  • Verification for Foreign Trained Workers: If your training was completed outside Ethiopia, your documents may be subject to additional screening and skills assessment before a license is issued.

4. Pharmacists:

  • Academic Credentials: A Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) from a certified university is the basic requirement.
  • National Exam & Registration: All pharmacy graduates must pass the pharmacy track of the EHPLE and apply for professional licensure with the Ministry of Health to work in pharmacies, hospitals, or health centers.

5. Public Health Professionals:

  • Educational Path: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or Health Education is typically required.
  • Licensing & Hiring Standards: Some roles, such as environmental health officers or public health nurses, are regulated under the EHPLE. NGOs and development agencies may also set additional criteria, such as prior experience or specific training in community programs.

6. International or Foreign Trained Professionals: Those who obtained their education outside Ethiopia must meet additional conditions:

  • Academic Review: Submit transcripts to the Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency (HERQA) for recognition.
  • License Verification: Present a valid license or professional letter of good standing from your home country.
  • Supporting Documents: Other common requirements include a health fitness certificate, proof of English language skills (if applicable), and a letter of sponsorship from an Ethiopian employer or host organization.
  • Application & Fees: Submit your documentation through the national portal and pay any required processing fees (often around USD 100 for international applicants).

Renewing Your License

Health professionals must renew their licenses regularly. Renewal may involve providing evidence of completed Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses and updated medical fitness certificates.

Note: While enforcement of licensing rules is strongest in larger cities, many rural areas still struggle with unregistered practitioners due to lack of awareness or regulatory follow up. Nonetheless, to work in any official capacity especially with government or international agencies, being fully licensed is non negotiable.

Salary for Healthcare Workers in Ethiopia (Mid‑2025 Estimates)

Healthcare salaries in Ethiopia can vary considerably based on role, experience, and whether you work in public facilities, private hospitals, or NGOs. Below is a realistic breakdown, with figures drawn from industry reports, employment platforms, and verified listings.

1. Doctors (General Practitioners):

  • Early career physicians in public hospitals earn approximately ETB 8,000 to 12,000 per month.
  • Doctors often supplement their income through teaching, extra shifts, or private consultations.

2. Specialists (Surgeons, Internists, etc.):

  • Senior physicians and those with additional roles (e.g., teaching, management) can earn between ETB 15,000 to 25,000 monthly.
  • Private and referral hospitals may offer higher pay depending on demand and departmental responsibilities.

3. Registered Nurses and Mid Level Nursing Staff:

  • Monthly income typically ranges from ETB 6,000 to 12,000 depending on qualification (diploma or BSc), specialty, and years of experience.
  • Those with ICU, ER, or maternal care expertise may command pay at the upper end of this band.

4. Medical Laboratory Technologists:

  • Average salary lies around ETB 6,000 to 9,000 per month, with a median near ETB 7,000.
  • Technologists with advanced training or working in research hospitals may earn more.

5. Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians:

  • Entry level public sector pharmacists earn roughly ETB 10,000 to 15,000 monthly.
  • Those in private facilities or managerial positions may take home between ETB 20,000 and 35,000.
  • High earning practitioners can exceed this bracket depending on specialty or supervisory responsibilities.

What Shapes Your Earnings in Ethiopia?

  • Location: Salaries in Addis Ababa and larger cities are often higher than those in regional towns.
  • Experience & Specialty: Certified professionals with advanced skills (e.g. trauma nursing, microbiology, ICU) earn more.
  • Sector Differences: Public sector roles offer stability and benefits, while private and NGO jobs may provide higher pay and faster advancement.
  • Allowances & Overtime: Some hospitals offer weekend, shift, or rural service bonuses that significantly boost annual income.

Step by Step Guide to Apply for Healthcare and Nursing Jobs in Ethiopia

Healthcare opportunities in Ethiopia span clinical roles, public health positions, NGOs, and international agencies. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a licensed professional, these practical steps will help you approach the job market strategically.

1. Clarify Your Target Role: Ethiopia’s health sector offers a wide range of roles including:

  • Medical doctors and clinical officers
  • Nurses, midwives, and health extension workers
  • Laboratory technologists, radiographers
  • Pharmacists, public health officers, and health information specialists

Start by identifying roles that fit your qualification and experience. For example, nurses and midwives need to be licensed under the Ethiopian Health Professionals Licensing Examination (EHPLE) system, which covers 17 health professions including nursing, pharmacy, laboratory science, midwifery, and public health .

2. Locate Reputable Job Listings:

  • Online Job Platforms: Websites like EthioJobs, JobWeb Ethiopia, and Sabi Jobs post healthcare vacancies for NGO and private sectors regularly. Government roles appear on the official MOH and Regional Health Bureau pages, and are often duplicated by recruiting platforms like HawassaJobs.
  • Traditional Media: Public sector roles are also frequently advertised in local newspapers such as Addis Zemen and bulletin boards at hospitals and health offices .
  • NGOs and Global Agencies: Groups like CARE Ethiopia, Amref, MSF, UNICEF, and WHO Ethiopia periodically publish positions with detailed requirements and application instructions .

3. Put Documents in Order: Key Items to Prepare:

  • A clear, up to date CV
  • Academic certificates and transcripts
  • Proof of professional licence via EHPLE (for regulated roles)
  • Identification (National ID, Kebele ID, or passport)
  • Letters confirming work experience or internships
  • Credentials such as training certificates (e.g., infection control, maternal care)

Physical submissions often require hard copies; online applications typically ask for neat PDF uploads. Always read each job posting’s document instructions carefully .

4. Apply Precisely as Stated: Job posts often specify exact submission instructions: 

  • Government roles may require applications delivered physically to the Ministry of Health or regional bureau offices .
  •  Online applications: particularly for NGOs require digital uploads through designated portals with clear file naming.
  •  Hospital or private clinic roles sometimes accept or require CVs or forms submitted in person.

Note: Following instructions accurately is critical, failure to comply may result in immediate disqualification .

5. Prepare for Selection Processes

  • Exams: Government posts commonly include written tests assessing technical knowledge and familiarity with national health policies.
  • Interviews or Practical Demonstrations: Technical roles may involve interviews or hands on evaluations, for example, a nurse might perform simulations or lab practicals. Be ready to speak about Ethiopia’s Health Sector Transformation Plan or maternal and child health protocols, such as IMNCI and vaccination strategies.

6. Follow Up Thoughtfully: If you haven’t heard back after 10–14 days:

  • Government selections are often posted publicly, either online or via notice boards at health offices.
  • For NGOs or clinics, a polite follow up inquiry about your application status is acceptable, just avoid being overly persistent.

Note: Some employers maintain shortlisted candidate lists or post updates on Telegram channels, especially within federal agencies like MOH .

7. Review Offer Details Carefully: Once selected, a formal appointment or contract letter will be issued. Before accepting, confirm:

  • Salary and benefits
  • Posting location and start date
  • Contract length (especially for NGOs/project roles)
  • Required probation period
  • Leave and work hours policies

Tip: Contracts are mandatory in many positions; always ask for one if not provided upfront.

8. Prepare to Begin Work: Once you accept:

  • Organize personal logistics (accommodation, transport)
  • Submit necessary onboarding documents
  • Complete any required medical screening
  • Attend induction or orientation sessions as needed

Bring originals of all documents when reporting, especially for government or regulated job placements.

Conclusion

Ethiopia’s healthcare system is expanding and it needs skilled, committed professionals more than ever. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow in your career, there’s room to contribute, lead, and make an impact. From frontline clinical work to lab diagnostics, public health, and digital health roles, the opportunities are wide and real. As national health reforms continue and employers invest in talent, now is the right time to align your skills with the system’s growing needs.

While this guide provides accurate and up to date information, hiring requirements, salary bands, and recruitment processes may differ by region or organization. Always confirm final details directly through official listings, employer websites, or the Ministry of Health before applying.

Looking for more healthcare career tips, verified job insights, or updates on new openings? Stay connected we’ll be sharing more helpful guides and opportunities soon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a licensing exam required to work in healthcare in Ethiopia?

Yes. Most regulated healthcare roles like doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and lab technicians require passing the Ethiopian Health Professionals Licensing Examination (EHPLE). It’s a national exam designed to test your professional competence before you’re allowed to work officially.

2. Can I apply for healthcare jobs in Ethiopia if I studied abroad?

You can. But you’ll need to have your qualifications authenticated, your license validated by Ethiopian authorities, and in most cases, you’ll still need to pass the local licensing exam. You’ll also need a job offer or letter of sponsorship from a recognized employer in Ethiopia.

3. Where are healthcare job opportunities posted in Ethiopia?

Job openings appear across several platforms, including:

  • The Ministry of Health website
  • EthioJobs and JobWeb Ethiopia
  • Health bureau notice boards
  • NGO websites (like MSF, Jhpiego, or Save the Children)
  • Local newspapers (such as Addis Zemen)

4. What healthcare jobs are most needed in Ethiopia right now?

Some of the most in demand roles include:

  • General practitioners and clinical officers
  • Registered nurses (especially ICU and maternal health)
  • Midwives
  • Medical lab technologists
  • Pharmacists
  • Public health professionals for rural programs

5. Do I need to register with a professional body before working?

Yes. After passing the licensing exam, you must officially register with the Ministry of Health or the relevant regional health bureau. This gives you legal permission to practice in Ethiopia.

6. What should I prepare before applying for a healthcare job?

Here’s what you’ll usually need:

  • Updated CV
  • Educational certificates and transcripts
  • Proof of license or EHPLE results
  • Government issued ID or passport
  • Letters from previous employers or internship supervisors
  • Extra certifications (e.g., CPR, maternal care, digital health)

7. Are healthcare jobs available outside Addis Ababa?

Definitely. In fact, rural areas and regional towns often have more vacancies due to workforce shortages. These jobs can come with added benefits like housing allowances or rural service incentives.

8. How much do healthcare professionals earn in Ethiopia?

Earnings vary widely depending on your role, experience, and employer. Here’s a rough guide:

  • Nurses: ETB 6,000–12,000/month
  • Doctors: ETB 8,000–25,000/month
  • Pharmacists: ETB 10,000–35,000/month
  • NGOs and private hospitals may pay more than public facilities.

9. Can fresh graduates get hired in government hospitals?

Yes. Many government healthcare facilities hire recent graduates, especially those who have passed the required licensing exam. You’ll often start at an entry level grade but can grow with experience and additional training.

10. Do NGO healthcare jobs also require a license?

If you’re applying for clinical roles like nurse, midwife, or doctor, yes. For roles in research, project support, or health education, licensing may not be mandatory, but experience and relevant academic background are usually required.

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Augustus Sylvester Victor A Content Writer, Athlete, Organist and a Tutor from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

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