Operation Smile, an internationally recognized nonprofit organization, is dedicated to transforming lives by providing free surgeries to individuals born with cleft conditions. Since its establishment in 1982, Operation Smile has worked across multiple countries to ensure that safe and high-quality surgical care is accessible to all. In Ethiopia, the organization has been actively involved since 2005, partnering with major medical institutions such as Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC) and St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC). Recently, it has also extended its partnership to Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Tigray to enhance its impact.
Operation Smile Ethiopia (OSE) is now offering a unique internship opportunity at Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC). This internship is ideal for fresh graduates in the medical field who are eager to gain hands-on experience in healthcare coordination, patient management, and surgical program support. The selected intern will work closely with Surgical and Non-Surgical Program Coordinators to facilitate patient care, outreach initiatives, and program logistics. This role is an excellent opportunity to contribute to life-changing medical services while developing essential professional skills in a hospital setting.
Unlike traditional employment opportunities, this internship is a non-employment position where Operation Smile Ethiopia will cover transportation and meal costs for the days the intern is on duty. The intern is expected to be highly motivated, flexible, and willing to engage in various activities that support cleft surgical and non-surgical care programs. If you are a recent medical graduate looking for a meaningful experience that makes a real difference in people’s lives, this internship could be the perfect fit for you.
Intern for Jimma University Medical Center
Operation Smile Ethiopia is seeking a dedicated intern to join its team at Jimma University Medical Center. The intern will assist in coordinating both surgical and non-surgical programs for cleft patients, ensuring smooth patient recruitment, data management, and outreach efforts. This role requires close collaboration with medical professionals and program coordinators to provide comprehensive care, including nutrition, dental, speech, and psychosocial services.
The intern will play a crucial role in raising awareness within the community by helping organize and execute outreach programs that educate families about available cleft care services. Additionally, the intern will support data entry, patient record management, and report preparation, ensuring accurate documentation of patient progress and program activities. Assisting in logistics, such as forecasting medical supply needs and coordinating educational programs, is also part of the role.
This internship provides a valuable learning opportunity for medical graduates who are eager to engage with real-world healthcare challenges. By participating in surgical programs and assisting with program administration, the intern will gain practical experience in hospital operations, team collaboration, and patient care coordination. The selected individual will also have the chance to work on special initiatives such as visiting professorship programs and training sessions aimed at enhancing surgical education.
Qualifications and Skills Required
The ideal candidate for this internship should have recently completed a Bachelor of Medicine (MD) degree from a recognized university. While no prior work experience is required, applicants should have a strong commitment to learning, teamwork, and patient-centered care. Proficiency in English and Amharic is essential, as effective communication is a key aspect of the role.
Basic knowledge of computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and online collaboration tools like Teams and Redcap is required for managing patient data and reports. The intern should be highly organized, adaptable, and willing to work flexible hours when necessary. Since this is a hospital-based position, candidates must be comfortable working in a fast-paced medical environment. Additionally, the selected intern must bring a functional laptop to support administrative tasks.
OSE is looking for individuals who are eager to learn, easily coachable, and enthusiastic about making a meaningful impact. This internship offers hands-on experience in medical program coordination, making it an excellent stepping stone for anyone interested in pursuing a career in healthcare administration, surgery, or community health initiatives.
Internship Compensation and Benefits
While this is a non-employment position, Operation Smile Ethiopia will provide transportation and meal allowances for the days the intern is actively working. This ensures that the selected candidate can fully focus on their responsibilities without financial concerns.
Beyond financial support, this internship offers valuable exposure to healthcare program management, patient interaction, and the operational aspects of a nonprofit medical organization. Interns will gain practical experience that can significantly enhance their medical career prospects while contributing to a life-changing initiative.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply before February 7, 2025. Applications should be submitted via email to [email protected]. Interested applicants must ensure that they clearly mention the position title in the subject line of their email.
This is a rare opportunity to work with a globally recognized organization dedicated to improving healthcare access for children and families in Ethiopia. If you are passionate about making a difference and gaining valuable medical experience, don’t miss your chance to apply. Join Operation Smile Ethiopia and be part of a team that transforms lives through safe surgery and compassionate care.