In partnership with Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Baylor Foundation Malawi is implementing Maternal and Neonatal Health (MNH) program whose objective is improve the quality of maternal and neonatal health services to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in Malawi. The program is implemented at Area 25 Community Hospital. The services provided include antenatal care, intrapartum care, postnatal care, family planning, health education, cervical cancer and appropriate referral of high-risk mothers and newborns.
The Baylor Foundation Malawi (BFM) is currently inviting qualified professionals to apply for the following position:
Position : ANESTHESIA CLINICAL OFFICERS (2)
Contract DURATION: 1 year (renewable based on performance and Availability of funds)
Location : Baylor MNH – Area 25 Community Hospital
Reports to : Senior Nursing Officer
Position Description:
The Anesthetic Clinical Officer, reporting to the Medical Director, to provide safe and effective anesthesia services to obstetric and gynecological patients, supports maternal and neonatal emergency care, and maintain accurate electronic clinical and anesthesia records, Provide local and general anesthesia for obstetric and gynecological procedures, conduct pre-anesthetic assessment and monitor patients before, during and after procedures, Participate in neonatal resuscitation and stabilization of newborns requiring support at birth.
Job Summary
- Employer: Baylor Foundation Malawi (BFM)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-10-23
Key Responsibilities
- Provide local and general anesthesia for obstetric and gynecological procedures within the individual’s training, competency and approved scope of practice.
- Conduct pre-anesthetic assessment and monitor patients before, during and after procedures.
- Recognize and manage anesthetic complications and provide appropriate emergency support.
- Manage the patient in the recovery room, high dependency unit (HDU) and intensive care unit (ICU).
- Assist with the management and stabilization of obstetric and gynecological emergencies.
- Participate in neonatal resuscitation and stabilization of newborns requiring support at birth.
- Ensure anesthesia, theatre and neonatal resuscitation equipment is available, clean, functional and properly maintained.
- Maintain accurate and complete anesthesia, theatre and patient records.
- Participate in the teaching, supervision, mentorship, and professional development of medical and clinical staff.
- Maintain patient confidentiality and uphold high standards of professional, ethical, and clinical practice. Capture and manage clinical data electronically and ensure timely and accurate reporting.
- Participate in clinical audits, quality improvement activities, maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality reviews, and emergency drills.
- Work collaboratively with obstetricians, gynecologists, medical officers, clinical officers, midwives, nurses and theatre staff.
- Adhere to professional standards, clinical protocols, infection prevention guidelines and facility SOPs.
- Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time.
Requirements
- Diploma in Clinical Medicine from a recognized institution.
- Recognised Anaethesia Qualification
- Valid professional registration and practicing license.
- Demonstrated competency in local and general anesthesia.
- Training in Basic Life Support and Neonatal Resuscitation.
- Previous experience in an obstetric/gynecological theatre is an advantage.
- Computer literacy and experience with electronic medical records or clinical data systems is desirable.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required to work as an Anesthesia Clinical Officer in Malawi?
Candidates usually need a Diploma in Clinical Medicine with a specialization in Anesthesia from a recognized Malawian institution like the College of Medicine or Kamuzu College of Nursing. Registration with the Medical Council of Malawi is mandatory. Some employers prefer candidates with additional certifications in advanced life support or critical care.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Anesthesia Clinical Officer at a Malawian healthcare facility?
Daily duties include pre-operative patient assessments, administering anesthesia during surgeries, monitoring patients during procedures, and managing post-operative pain relief. You will also maintain anesthesia equipment and collaborate with surgeons and nurses in the operating theatre. Emergency on-call duties are common in most Malawian hospitals.
How does the work culture and professional expectations differ for Anesthesia Clinical Officers in Malawi compared to other clinical roles?
Anesthesia Clinical Officers often work longer hours due to emergency surgical schedules and are expected to demonstrate high reliability under pressure. The role demands strong teamwork with surgeons and respect for hierarchical structures common in Malawian public health settings. Punctuality and adaptability to resource-limited environments are highly valued by employers.
What career progression opportunities exist for Anesthesia Clinical Officers working in Malawi?
With experience, you can advance to senior clinical officer positions, become a department head, or transition into teaching roles at training institutions. Some pursue further specialization through regional programs or move into health management and policy roles within the Ministry of Health. International NGO experience can also open doors to regional or global health positions.
What benefits are typically included in contract positions for Anesthesia Clinical Officers in Malawi?
Contract roles usually include medical aid coverage, annual leave entitlements, and sometimes housing or transport allowances depending on the employer. Pension contributions vary by organization type, with government and established NGOs generally offering more structured packages. Always clarify these details during contract negotiations as they differ significantly across Malawian employers.
What should I include in my application to stand out for Anesthesia Clinical Officer positions in Malawi?
Highlight your clinical placement experience, especially hours logged in operating theatres at major referral hospitals like Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital or Kamuzu Central Hospital. Include your Medical Council registration number and any emergency or obstetric anesthesia experience. Strong references from senior anesthetists or medical officers familiar with your work ethic are particularly persuasive to Malawian hiring committees.