I have hesitated to post this because I think that people who choose to go to work for organizations like Doctors Without Borders are generally doing a very noble thing. I am not trying to criticize them in any way by pointing out that the majority are financially compensated, and compensated well by most peoples standards, to do what they do. (There is a small number of true volunteers who are not financially compensated.) Yes, they "volunteer" to go to war torn countries and areas ravaged by disease to help people. They are also paid pretty well to do so.
According to Indeed.com, the average salary at Doctors Without Borders is $93,000 per year. "Average Doctors Without Borders salaries for job postings nationwide are 62% higher than average salaries for all job postings nationwide."
http://www.indeed.com/salary/Doctors-Without-Borders.html
The Doctors Without Borders website lists a much lower average starting salary, but that is their absolute bottom level salary. It is adjusted upward for expertise and experience. Doctors do (and should) make far more then lab techs and clerical employees. It should also be noted that in addition to the base level salary, they receive a daily per idem in local currency when in the field. Additionally (huge to doctors and nurses with large student loan debt) they receive payment of interest on their student loans during and for 6 months after a field assignment.
http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/work-us/work-field/benefits-opportunities
Salary and Benefits
MSF salaries are set so as to reflect the humanitarian spirit of volunteerism while recognizing the high level of professional expertise provided by field staff. Starting gross monthly salary is approximately $1,731, with subsequent increases based on expertise and experience. Americans working in the field with MSF receive a US letter agreement in which all required taxes and contributions are deducted.
Benefits include:
Pre-departure training through a combination of readings, e-learning and face-to-face modules and presentations
Reimbursement of mission specific vaccinations
Required visas and work permits
Paid vacation (25 days per year)
Accommodation and transportation in New York City and Europe for briefings and debriefings
Daily per diem in local currency paid while in the field
Accommodation in the field
Round-trip transportation to the field
Medical, disability and life insurance coverage
Medical evacuation coverage
Letter of support for student loan deferment
Payment of interest on student loans after first field assignment and for six months thereafter
Psychological support before and after mission
Access to an Employee Assistance Program
Confidential peer support network