HVAC & Cold Chain Mobile Implementation Advisor (f/m/x) – Brussels - MSF Belgium

CONTEXT  

At MSF, Logistics aims to provide a safe, functional, and effective care environment for our patients, the populations we assist, and our teams through a pragmatic and solution-oriented approach. Our work involves engineering appropriate solutions that connect medical activities (grouped into Logistics Intervention families) and operational and contextual parameters with technical expertise in medical equipment management, construction, shelter, energy, HVAC, cold chain, motorized fleet, telecommunications, GIS, air operations, and more. Given the diversity and constant evolution of MSF’s operations, Logistics teams are continuously adapting and innovating to meet complex and shifting needs.  

The mission of the HVAC team in MSF OCB (Operational Center Brussels) is to design and manage HVAC systems that ensure thermal comfort, optimal air quality, and reduced airborne infection risks in health facilities, while promoting energy efficiency and safeguarding medical stocks by maintaining precise environmental controls in medical warehouses, specifically within the 15°C to 25°C range. 

The mission of the Cold Chain team in MSF OCB is to safeguard the integrity of temperature-sensitive medical items in diverse temperature ranges, including refrigerated and ultra-low temperature storage by providing safe, reliable and context adapted solutions for active and passive cold chain infrastructure, equipment, and processes, empowering medical teams to deliver high quality care.  

The MIO HVAC and Cold Chain position is related to the fact that MSF’s medical activities require continuous support to ensure a healthy, safe, and suitable environment for patients, medical staff, and supplies by delivering the appropriate temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality conditions. 

The MIO HVAC and Cold Chain is part of the Log Support Unit (LSU) under the line management of the Energy & HVAC Team Leader. 

As MIO HVAC and Cold Chain, you aim to implement or improve practices in MSF projects for an effective and efficient design, management, and use of HVAC and active cold chain equipment, ensuring proper air quality and comfort conditions. 

• You contribute to the Energy, HVAC & Cold Chain Team Leader by giving feedback on the functional status of the HVAC and Cold Chain conditions in running projects 

• You support the OCB projects in all technical aspects related to the management of HVAC and Cold Chain 

• You will be able to provide first-line support to the MSF projects and coordinate with the Energy & HVAC Team Leader to improve and implement the MSF process, tools, and related techniques. You will proactively evaluate and propose solutions in line with their technical domain. 

• You assist in implementing HVAC and Cold Chain settings in starting or running projects regarding technical needs, human resources, training, and external contractors according to the MSF framework 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES 

Provide specialized 1st line support 

• Support the Logistics Teams on HVAC and Cold Chain design, installation, use, maintenance, and decommissioning 

• Support the evaluation of HVAC and Cold Chain setups and propose new solutions to improve them where necessary. In addition, support the implementation of the MSF protocols, tools, and techniques related to HVAC and Cold Chain 

• Support the development of competencies of the Project technical focal point through HVAC and Cold Chain content-based training 

• Support the development of competencies in Cold Chain management for the country and project responsible 

• Support the Logistics teams on functional, active cold chain installation according to the needs (including cold room installation and qualification) 

• Evaluate the possibilities and advantages of collaboration with other technical families: construction, Water & sanitation, health facility management, pharmacy, vaccination referents, and Biomedical equipment when applicable 

Provide specialized 2nd line support 

• Support the Logistics teams at project level in the evaluation of external suppliers, maintenance contracts, local purchases, and outsourced HVAC and Cold Chain services and equipment such as chillers, air conditioners, central heating systems 

• Support the Logistics teams at project level in resolving interdisciplinary technical issues affecting the optimal functionality of the HVAC and Cold Chain conditions concerning electrical or water supply, infrastructural concerns, and infection control matters, among others 

• Contribute to ensuring that each/most of the 2nd-line support has an impact on the 3rd-line developments and is properly documented with capitalization reports and sharing of lessons learnt. 

Contribute to the Energy, HVAC, & Cold Chain Team Leader in 3rd line support tools development, such as 

• Guidelines for the design and maintenance of HVAC and Cold Chain settings and active cold chain equipment 

• HVAC and Cold Chain technical training 

• Follow up and supervise outsourced developments 

• Job descriptions of HVAC and Cold Chain Referents and Technicians in the projects 

REQUIREMENTS 

Education & Experience 

• Technical education (refrigeration technician/engineer) in energy, mechanics, or other formal HVAC training 

• Minimum of 2 years professional HVAC experience of which minimum of 1 year of experience in a related position 

• Experience in coaching and training of staff is an asset 

• Certificates in technical maintenance are an asset  

• Relevant work experience in health structures is an asset 

• Experience in developing countries is an asset 

• Experience of working with MSF or another international humanitarian organization is an asset 

Competencies 

• Ability to design and propose HVAC installations, including maintenance, planning, and procurement 

• Ability to compare technical specifications of HVAC equipment 

• Ability to design & deliver technical training 

• Good understanding of sustainable building design (alt. low energy building design, energy-efficient building design, or passive construction energy systems) and insulation techniques 

• Good understanding of electricity and electrical safety 

• Good knowledge of HVAC design software: HAP, VRV design tools, AutoCAD, etc.… 

• Good analytical skills 

• Proactive and willing to propose innovative ideas and solutions rapidly 

• Ability to work within an agreed timeline and prioritize activities/tasks 

• Results, quality & service oriented 

• Strong ability to work in a team and to work in a multi-stakeholder environment  

• Willing to take measured risks and responsibility for their choices 

• Good communication skills: active listener, communicates clearly and effectively, sense of diplomacy  

• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and contexts 

• Strong intercultural awareness and adaptability 

Languages 

• Proficient level in English and French, both oral and written is mandatory 

• Other commonly used languages in MSF (Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese) are an asset 

Other  

• Willingness to travel abroad under difficult conditions in sometimes insecure and remote locations  

CONDITIONS 

• Expected start date: As soon as possible  

• Location*: Brussels (Belgium) 

*Due to administrative constraints, given the duration of the contract, candidates may need to already have the permanent right and/or a valid work permit to work in the mentioned locations.  

*Other location/s where there is an MSF entity could be discussed in exceptional cases. The outcome will depend on the candidate's residency, the local legal restrictions (residency, work permit, etc.), and the agreement with the host MSF entity of the location.  

• Type of contract: Fixed-term contract – Full-time   

• Duration of contract: 1 year (renewable) 

• Mobility: up to 70% of the time in MSF projects worldwide 

• Salary according to MSF mobile staff salary grid 

• High mobility allowance and travel allowance 

• The contractual terms, conditions and salary will be established according to the official residence of the selected candidate and in respect of MSF standard function and salary grid for mobile staff 

• Medical insurance 100% covered as per international package; 45 days annual paid leaves; Accomplishment bonus of 1.5-month salary upon completion of a 12-month contract 

• Not a family position 

• Adhere to the MSF principles and our managerial values: Respect, Transparency, Integrity, Accountability, Trust and Empowerment 

• Comply with the MSF Behavioral Commitments 

Deadline for applications: November 4th 2026 

How to apply?  

• Submit your application via the 'Apply here' button   

• You will be directed to the online application form for this position 

• It should take  5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you in advance for having your CV and motivation letter ready to upload  

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted 

MSF values diversity and is committed to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, color or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.  

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