Find balance in the North
Akureyri Hospital (SAk) draws the attention of specialists to a wide range of exciting career opportunities for physicians at the hospital.
Working at SAk offers the possibility to strike a balance between a demanding and fulfilling career and a high quality of life outside of work, within a safe and vibrant community.
We encourage anyone interested not to hesitate, get in touch and learn more!
Further information:
Kristjana Kristjánsdóttir, Head of Human Resources – kristjanak@sak.is
Helgi Þór Leifsson, Executive Director of Clinical Services – hl1009@sak.is

Specialist Vacancies
Akureyri Hospital (SAk) is seeking an Emergency Medicine Specialist – or a specialist with other relevant training. This is a 60–100% position, available immediately or by agreement.
Why SAk?
Modern and well-equipped emergency department with access to first-class support services
Around 17,000 annual visits to the emergency department – diverse and challenging cases
Strong and dynamic team with close collaboration with specialist physicians
Teaching hospital providing both general and specialized healthcare services
Be part of a strong healthcare service for North and East Iceland!
Akureyri Hospital is a teaching hospital providing general and specialized healthcare, with a strong emphasis on emergency services and core specialties. The Emergency Department at SAk serves patients of all ages with both physical and mental health emergencies.
Main tasks and responsibilities
Reception and treatment of patients with acute illness or injury
Participation in teaching and training of students, residents, and other professionals, as well as quality improvement projects
Opportunities for research and development in collaboration with the head physician
Daytime and on-call shifts in the Emergency Department
On-call duties are part of the role
Active participation in teamwork
Other tasks in consultation with the head physician
Qualifications
Full specialist certification in emergency medicine and a valid Icelandic medical license (other relevant specialties may be considered)
Ability to work independently and in a team, with excellent communication skills
Commitment to providing outstanding emergency care
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Applicants must have a good professional reputation, and conduct both inside and outside the workplace must be consistent with the role
Terms of employment
Salary according to the current wage agreement between the Minister of Finance and the Icelandic Medical Association.
All applications must be submitted electronically through the State Recruitment Portal. Applications should include detailed information on education and career history, a CV, and copies of diplomas and licenses, as applicable.
Recruitment at Akureyri Hospital is conducted in line with the hospital’s equality policy. Applications remain valid for 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on the advertisement of vacancies, with subsequent amendments. All applicants will receive a response.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally accredited healthcare services, certified by DNV-GL with an ISO-certified quality management system. The hospital emphasizes the active participation of all staff to meet the quality standards of the international certification.
According to Akureyri Hospital’s human resources policy, emphasis is placed on recruiting and retaining talented individuals. Recruitment is based on education, experience, skills, and competence. The HR policy serves as a guide for managers and staff, making Akureyri Hospital a progressive and attractive workplace, built on the hospital’s core values: SAFETY, COLLABORATION, and INNOVATION.
Employment ratio: 60–100%
Application deadline: September 30, 2025
Further information
Helgi Þór Leifsson – hl1009@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Elísabet Björgvinsdóttir – ebj0121@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Akureyri Hospital is seeking to recruit a specialist in internal medicine. This is a 100% position, although part-time employment may be considered. The position is available immediately or by agreement. Residency in Akureyri is preferred.
Be part of SAk’s vision for the future and contribute to strong healthcare services in North and East Iceland, where professionalism, safety, and ambition go hand in hand.
Why Akureyri Hospital?
Excellent working environment and strong professional collaboration
Opportunities for teaching and professional development
High quality of life and a welcoming community
Beautiful natural surroundings with outstanding opportunities for outdoor activities
The immediate supervisor is Guðjón Kristjánsson, Chief of Internal Medicine.
Main tasks and responsibilities
General internal medicine work in inpatient and outpatient wards, as well as consultation for other hospital units
Participation in on-call rota
Teaching and training of healthcare staff and junior doctors
Opportunities to participate in research projects
Qualifications
Valid Icelandic medical license and specialist certification in general internal medicine
Subspecialty training (e.g., infectious diseases, pulmonology, endocrinology, or nephrology) is an advantage
Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative
Ability and willingness to work in a team
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Emphasis will be placed on professional expertise and experience, as well as skills in collaboration, communication, and independent work
Applicants must have a good reputation, and conduct both inside and outside the workplace must be consistent with the role
Terms of employment
Salary according to the current wage agreement between the Minister of Finance and the Icelandic Medical Association.
All applications must be submitted electronically through the State Recruitment Portal. Applications should include detailed information on education and career history, a CV, and copies of diplomas and licenses, as applicable.
Recruitment at Akureyri Hospital is based on the hospital’s equality policy. Applications remain valid for 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on the advertisement of vacancies, with subsequent amendments. All applicants will receive a response.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally accredited healthcare services, certified by DNV-GL with an ISO-certified quality management system. The hospital emphasizes the active participation of all staff to meet the quality requirements of the international standards under which it is certified.
According to Akureyri Hospital’s human resources policy, emphasis is placed on recruiting and retaining talented individuals. Recruitment is based on education, experience, skills, and competence. The HR policy serves as a guide for managers and staff, making Akureyri Hospital a progressive and attractive workplace, built on the hospital’s core values: SAFETY, COLLABORATION, and INNOVATION.
Employment ratio: 100% (possibility of part-time)
Application deadline: September 30, 2025
Further information
Kristjana Kristjánsdóttir – kristjanak@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Helgi Þór Leifsson – hl1009@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
APPLY
Akureyri Hospital (SAk) is seeking a specialist in anaesthesiology and intensive care. This is a 50–100% position, available immediately or by further agreement. This is a great opportunity in a dynamic and challenging work environment with a strong focus on teamwork and continuous improvement in the service of patients. New staff are warmly welcomed and provided with good support during onboarding.
Be part of SAk’s vision for the future and contribute to strong healthcare services in North and East Iceland, where professionalism, safety, and ambition go hand in hand.
Why Akureyri Hospital?
Excellent facilities and strong professional collaboration
Opportunities for teaching and development
High quality of life and a vibrant community
Beautiful natural surroundings with excellent outdoor opportunities
Main tasks and responsibilities
General anaesthesia and intensive care duties, including obstetric anaesthesia and emergency department support as required
Participation in teaching and training of students, residents, and other healthcare professionals, as well as in quality improvement projects
Opportunities to participate in quality and research projects in collaboration with the head physician
Participation in medical support for air ambulance services is desirable
Other tasks in consultation with the head physician
Qualifications
Full specialist certification in anaesthesiology and intensive care in Iceland
Advanced Life Support (ALS) and European Paediatric Life Support (EPLS) training is desirable
Completion of a trauma management course such as the European Trauma Course (ETC) or Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is an advantage
Proficiency in Icelandic and/or English at CEFR level C1 or higher is required
Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Terms of employment
Salary in accordance with the current wage agreement between the Minister of Finance and the Icelandic Medical Association.
Applications must be submitted electronically, including the completed Directorate of Health application form for medical positions, CV, copy of specialist license(s), confirmation of previous specialist positions, and a cover letter outlining qualifications, vision for the position, and contact information for two former supervisors as references.
Recruitment at Akureyri Hospital is in line with the hospital’s equality policy. The hospital is a smoke-free workplace. All applicants will receive a response once a decision has been made.
Applications may remain valid for up to 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on the advertisement of vacancies, with subsequent amendments.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally accredited healthcare services, certified by DNV-GL with an ISO-certified quality management system. The hospital emphasizes the active participation of all staff to meet the quality requirements of the international standards under which it is certified.
The core values of Akureyri Hospital are: SAFETY – COLLABORATION – INNOVATION.
Employment ratio: 50–100%
Application deadline: September 30, 2025
Further information
Christiaan M. Wolffensperger – cw0515@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Corina Labitzke – cl1018@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Akureyri Hospital (SAk) is seeking to recruit a specialist in pediatrics for the Department of Pediatrics. This is a 50–100% position, available immediately or by further agreement.
The Pediatric Department at SAk is the only pediatric ward outside the capital area. It serves primarily the residents of North and East Iceland, from birth to 18 years of age. The department includes an inpatient unit with a neonatal ward, as well as a day unit and diverse outpatient services. The department provides comprehensive general pediatric care and neonatal services at a high level of quality.
For further information, please contact Danielle Courtney Shepherd, Chief Pediatrician, at dcs0123@sak.is.
Be part of SAk’s vision for the future and contribute to strong healthcare services in North and East Iceland, where professionalism, safety, and ambition go hand in hand.
Why Akureyri Hospital?
Excellent facilities and strong professional collaboration
Opportunities for teaching and professional development
High quality of life and a welcoming community
Beautiful natural surroundings with excellent outdoor opportunities
Main tasks and responsibilities
On-call duties as part of the role
Providing care to patients in the pediatric ward, day unit, outpatient services, emergency department, and maternity ward
Teaching healthcare professionals
Training junior doctors and residents, with opportunities for research
Qualifications
Valid Icelandic medical license and specialist certification in pediatrics
Broad experience in general pediatrics and basic knowledge of neonatology is required
Ability and willingness to work in a team
Emphasis will be placed on professional knowledge and independent working methods, as well as communication and collaboration skills
Applicants must have a good reputation, and conduct both inside and outside the workplace must be consistent with the role
Terms of employment
Salary according to the current wage agreement between the Minister of Finance and the Icelandic Medical Association.
All applications must be submitted electronically through the State Recruitment Portal. Applications should include detailed information on education and professional career, a CV, and copies of diplomas and licenses, as applicable.
Recruitment at Akureyri Hospital is in line with the hospital’s equality policy. Applications remain valid for 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on the advertisement of vacancies, with subsequent amendments. All applicants will receive a response.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally accredited healthcare services, certified by DNV-GL with an ISO-certified quality management system. The hospital emphasizes the active participation of all staff to meet the quality requirements of the international standards under which it is certified.
According to Akureyri Hospital’s human resources policy, emphasis is placed on recruiting and retaining talented individuals. Recruitment is based on education, experience, skills, and competence. The HR policy serves as a guide for managers and staff, making Akureyri Hospital a progressive and attractive workplace, built on the hospital’s core values: SAFETY – COLLABORATION – INNOVATION.
Employment ratio: 50–100%
Application deadline: September 30, 2025
Further information
Danielle Courtney Shepherd – dcs0123@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
Helgi Þór Leifsson – hl1009@sak.is | Tel. +354 463 0100
APPLY
Are you looking for new challenges in your career and want to take part in improvements that have a positive impact on patients’ lives?
Then the position of Specialist in Psychiatry at the Mental Health Department of Akureyri Hospital is a great opportunity for you!
In recent months, both the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric units have undergone extensive reforms and restructuring. The departments provide diverse and important services for the treatment and support of individuals with mental disorders.
The inpatient unit handles all general acute psychiatric care and has easy access to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) when needed. The outpatient unit offers both individual and group therapy, as well as follow-up for people with chronic conditions. In addition, there is a unit dedicated to treatment-resistant depression, providing TMS and esketamine therapy. The outpatient unit also offers a wide range of group therapies and rehabilitation programs, such as behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT, and psychodynamic approaches.
This is a 50–100% position available immediately or by further agreement.
Why Akureyri Hospital (SAk):
Interdisciplinary and supportive team in a diverse and rewarding environment
Opportunities for specialization and professional development
A unique community with excellent work–life balance
Teaching and research opportunities for those interested
The psychiatric department at Akureyri Hospital is the only psychiatric unit outside the capital area and serves residents of North and East Iceland aged 18 and older. It consists of an inpatient ward and day/outpatient services with diverse tasks and opportunities for close collaboration with other mental health professionals. There is strong cooperation with other hospital departments, primary healthcare centers, municipal social services, the psychiatry department at Landspítali (National University Hospital), and SÁÁ institutions for addiction treatment. Akureyri Hospital is a teaching hospital, providing both general and specialized healthcare, with emphasis on acute services and key specialties.
Main responsibilities
Assessment and diagnosis of patients
Participation in interdisciplinary teamwork across inpatient, day, and outpatient units
Contribution to quality improvement and development work
Teaching of healthcare professionals, training of residents and junior doctors, with opportunities for research
Services for patients in institutions across North and East Iceland
On-call duties and specialist consultation within the psychiatric service
Qualifications
Icelandic medical license and specialist certification in psychiatry
Interest in providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment
Motivation for professional development and flexibility to embrace innovation
Professional knowledge, experience, and strong skills in communication, collaboration, and independent work
Candidates must demonstrate integrity, good reputation, and professional conduct both within and outside the workplace
Further information about the position
Salary in accordance with the current collective agreement between the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs and the Icelandic Medical Association
All applications must be submitted electronically through the state recruitment system. Applications must include detailed education and work history (CV) along with copies of diplomas and licenses, as applicable.
The recruitment process is guided by the gender equality policy of Akureyri Hospital. Applications may remain valid for 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on job advertisements with later amendments. All applicants will receive a reply.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally certified healthcare services with DNV-GL accreditation and an ISO-certified quality management system, emphasizing the active participation of all staff to meet international quality standards.
According to the hospital’s human resources policy, emphasis is placed on hiring and retaining talented individuals. Recruitment decisions are based on education, experience, skills, and qualifications. The policy guides managers and staff, making the hospital a progressive and attractive workplace. Its core values are SAFETY, COLLABORATION, and PROGRESSIVENESS.
Employment rate: 50–100%
Application deadline: October 31, 2025
Further information
Gestur Guðrúnarson
📧 ggu0125@sak.is
📞 +354 463 0100
Árni Jóhannesson
📧 arnijo@sak.is
📞 +354 463 0100
Are you looking for new challenges in your career and want to take part in improvements that have a positive impact on patients’ lives?
Then the position of Specialist in Family Medicine at the Department of Psychiatry, Akureyri Hospital, is a great opportunity for you!
In recent months, both the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric units have undergone extensive reforms and restructuring. The departments provide diverse and important services for the treatment and support of individuals with mental disorders.
The inpatient unit handles all general acute psychiatric care and has easy access to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) when needed. The outpatient unit offers both individual and group therapy, as well as follow-up for people with chronic conditions. In addition, there is a unit dedicated to treatment-resistant depression, providing TMS and esketamine therapy. The outpatient unit also offers a wide range of group therapies and rehabilitation programs, such as behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT, and psychodynamic approaches.
This is a 50–100% position, available immediately or by further agreement.
Why Akureyri Hospital (SAk)?
Interdisciplinary and supportive team in a diverse and rewarding environment
Opportunities for specialization and professional development
A unique community with excellent work–life balance
Teaching and research opportunities for those interested
The psychiatric department at Akureyri Hospital is the only psychiatric unit outside the capital area and serves residents of North and East Iceland aged 18 and older. It consists of an inpatient ward and day/outpatient services with diverse tasks and opportunities for close collaboration with other mental health professionals. There is strong cooperation with other hospital departments, primary healthcare centers, municipal social services, the psychiatry department at Landspítali (National University Hospital), and SÁÁ institutions for addiction treatment.
Akureyri Hospital is a teaching hospital, providing both general and specialized healthcare, with emphasis on acute services and key specialties.
Main responsibilities
Assessment and diagnosis of patients
Participation in interdisciplinary teamwork across inpatient, day, and outpatient units
Contribution to quality improvement and development work
Teaching of healthcare professionals, training of residents and junior doctors, with opportunities for research
Services for patients in institutions across North and East Iceland
On-call duties and specialist consultation within the psychiatric service
Qualifications
Icelandic medical license and specialist certification in Family Medicine
Interest in providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment
Motivation for professional development and flexibility to embrace innovation
Professional knowledge, experience, and strong skills in communication, collaboration, and independent work
Candidates must demonstrate integrity, good reputation, and professional conduct both within and outside the workplace
Further information about the position
Salary in accordance with the current collective agreement between the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs and the Icelandic Medical Association
All applications must be submitted electronically through the state recruitment system. Applications must include detailed education and work history (CV) along with copies of diplomas and licenses, as applicable.
The recruitment process is guided by the gender equality policy of Akureyri Hospital. Applications may remain valid for 6 months from the date of publication, in accordance with Regulation no. 1000/2019 on job advertisements with later amendments. All applicants will receive a reply.
Akureyri Hospital provides internationally certified healthcare services with DNV-GL accreditation and an ISO-certified quality management system, emphasizing the active participation of all staff to meet international quality standards.
According to the hospital’s human resources policy, emphasis is placed on hiring and retaining talented individuals. Recruitment decisions are based on education, experience, skills, and qualifications. The policy guides managers and staff, making the hospital a progressive and attractive workplace. Its core values are SAFETY, COLLABORATION, and PROGRESSIVENESS.
Employment rate: 50–100%
Application deadline: October 31, 2025
Further information
Gestur Guðrúnarson
📧 ggu0125@sak.is
📞 +354 463 0100
Árni Jóhannesson
📧 arnijo@sak.is
📞 +354 463 0100

International staff
If you are applying for a position that requires a Licence to practice as a healthcare professional in Iceland please familiarize yourself with the requirements and the application process on the website of the Directorate of Health. The Directorate of Health grants licenses to use the professional title of an authorized healthcare profession and to practice as such in Iceland. Staff Services at SAk will assists all incoming employees who are starting their career at SAk with the bureaucratic formalities needed when moving to Iceland.
Applications and supporting documents must be handed in directly to the Directorate of Health at the following address;
Embætti Landlæknis
Katrínartúni 2
105 Reykjavík