Are you passionate about improving mental health care for vulnerable populations? Do you want to work with one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations? If so, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) invites you to apply for an exciting opportunity as a Mental Health Nurse in Kakuma, Kenya.
This role is a crucial part of IRC’s health team, providing direct support to individuals and communities affected by war trauma, torture, drug abuse, and mental disorders in refugee settings. By joining IRC, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that is dedicated to improving health outcomes for refugees and host communities.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the details of the role, the key responsibilities, and how you can become part of this impactful journey.
About IRC
The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933, the IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees forced to flee from war or disaster. At work today in more than 40 countries and 20 U.S. cities, we restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure.
Why Work With IRC?
- Meaningful Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of displaced people.
- Professional Growth: Work alongside global health experts in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
- Community-Centered Work: Support real people in real-time, providing mental health care that changes lives.
- Ethical Standards: Operate under strict confidentiality and ethical guidelines, always putting patients first.
Job Opportunity: Mental Health Nurse
Location: Kakuma, Rift Valley, Kenya
Employment Type: Full-Time, Fixed-Term
Work Arrangement: In-person
Open to Expatriates: No
Requisition ID: req58218
Application Deadline: 3rd June 2025
Job Description
The Mental Health Nurse will work under the supervision of the Mental Health Officer, providing direct Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services to individuals, groups, and communities within the Hagadera refugee camp. The nurse will also play a vital role in supporting people affected by drug abuse, torture, and war trauma, aiming to reduce suffering and promote rehabilitation and community reintegration.
Key Responsibilities
As a Mental Health Nurse, you will have a diverse and impactful set of duties, including:
1. Clinical Consultation & Supervision
- Conduct consultations at the three mental health clinics in the Hagadera camp.
- Supervise incentive staff working at various clinics to ensure effective psychiatric assessment and interventions.
- Ensure rational prescription of psychotropic medications and appropriate patient referrals.
2. Documentation & Case Management
- Maintain timely and professional documentation of all client interactions.
- Conduct individual case management of follow-up patients and ensure progress toward recovery goals.
3. Psychological First Aid (PFA)
- Deliver PFA services to refugees and the host community, supporting them through immediate mental distress.
4. Training & Capacity Building
- Plan and facilitate training sessions for community health workers (CHWs), nurse aides, medical assistants, and other stakeholders such as religious leaders, support groups, and teachers.
- Provide continuous mentorship to mental health assistants within the department.
5. Community Engagement & Awareness
- Lead mental health awareness campaigns within the community.
- Foster a safe and informed environment for discussing mental health topics.
6. Networking & Referrals
- Develop strong referral networks with local partners, hospital departments, and line ministries.
- Represent IRC at inter-agency MHPSS meetings in Dadaab, showcasing ongoing work and identifying new collaboration opportunities.
7. Administrative Duties
- Compile quality departmental work plans, weekly and monthly Health Information System (HIS) reports.
- Act on behalf of the Mental Health Officer when they are unavailable.
- Ensure that all interactions with clients remain confidential and adhere to ethical standards.
8. Strategic Development
- Design mental health training modules for diverse stakeholders.
- Develop referral systems and strengthen collaboration between NGOs, CBOs, and government entities.
9. Additional Duties
- Assist with other related duties as deemed necessary by the supervisor to support department goals.
Key Result Areas
- Enhanced quality of MHPSS care across the Hagadera refugee camp.
- Strengthened community awareness and understanding of mental health.
- Improved capacity of health staff through effective training and mentorship.
Requirements
The role requires a strong foundation in psychiatric nursing and the ability to work effectively in high-stress humanitarian environments. Key attributes include:
- Diploma or Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from a recognized institution.
- 2–3 years of field experience, preferably in a humanitarian or NGO setting.
- Experience with psychiatric care in a busy hospital environment.
- Ability to work well in a team and under minimal supervision.
- Strong communication skills in English and Kiswahili.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).
- Flexibility and adaptability to dynamic work environments.
- Commitment to ethical standards and client confidentiality.
Work Environment
The position is based in Kakuma, located in the northwestern region of Kenya, within the Rift Valley. As part of a humanitarian operation, you must be prepared to work in a challenging yet rewarding setting. The work arrangement is in-person and requires a full-time commitment.
Application Process
If you are a passionate and experienced mental health professional who meets the criteria, we encourage you to take the next step toward joining the IRC team.
Apply Now
To apply, please refer to the details in the attached PDF and complete your application via the official IRC application platform. Be sure to submit all required documents before the application deadline on 3rd June 2025.
Final Thoughts
Mental health care is an essential component of humanitarian work, and IRC’s mental health programs in Kakuma are a testament to our commitment to holistic well-being. This role offers not just a job, but a mission—to empower communities to heal, grow, and thrive.
If you have the heart, the skills, and the drive to contribute to this meaningful work, don’t wait—Apply Now and help change lives in Kakuma.
