Finding Shifts
Learn how to search, filter, and apply for available healthcare shifts on OnLocum.
Finding Shifts
This guide shows you how to find and apply for shifts that match your qualifications, location, and availability.
Browsing Available Shifts
Using the Mobile App
- Open the OnLocum app
- Tap the Find Shifts or Available Shifts tab
- Browse the list of available opportunities
Using the Web Platform
- Log in at app.onlocum.com
- Go to Dashboard > Find Shifts
- View the shift list or map view
Filtering Shifts
Use filters to find shifts that work for you:
By Date
- Today's shifts
- Tomorrow
- This week
- Custom date range
By Location
- Within 5km, 10km, 25km, or 50km
- Specific cities (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu)
- Saved locations
By Service Type
- Nursing (General, ICU, Pediatric)
- Caregiving
- Medical Assistance
- Home Healthcare
- Specialized Services
By Facility Type
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Nursing Homes
- Home Care
- Corporate
By Pay Rate
- Minimum hourly rate
- Flat rate shifts
- High-paying opportunities
Tip
Save your preferred filters for quick access. The app remembers your last search.
Understanding Shift Listings
Each shift listing shows:
Basic Information
- Facility Name - Where you'll work
- Date & Time - Shift start and end times
- Duration - Total hours
- Location - Facility address and distance from you
Pay Details
- Rate - Hourly rate in KES
- Total Pay - Estimated total earnings
- Payment Method - M-Pesa, bank transfer, etc.
Requirements
- Required qualifications
- Experience level
- Document requirements
- Special skills needed
Facility Rating
- Star rating from other workers
- Number of reviews
- Completion rate
Applying for Shifts
When you find a shift you want:
- Tap on the shift to view full details
- Review all requirements carefully
- Check that the time works with your schedule
- Tap Apply or Express Interest
Warning
Only apply for shifts you can definitely work. Cancellations affect your rating.
What Happens Next
- Application Sent - The facility receives your application
- Under Review - Facility reviews your profile
- Approved/Declined - You'll be notified of the decision
- Confirmed - Shift appears in your upcoming shifts
Types of Matching
OnLocum uses different matching methods:
Open Applications
- You browse and apply to any shift
- Facility reviews and approves applicants
- Most common for new workers
Instant Match
- Automatic matching based on qualifications
- Immediate confirmation
- Used for urgent shifts
Direct Invite
- Facility invites you specifically
- Based on past work or high ratings
- Accept or decline within 24 hours
Cascade Matching
- Organization-wide shift filling
- Priority given to internal staff first
- External workers fill remaining spots
Improving Your Match Rate
Get approved for more shifts with these tips:
Complete Your Profile
- Add all qualifications and certifications
- Upload a professional photo
- Write a compelling bio
Keep Documents Updated
- Ensure all documents are valid
- Upload new certifications promptly
- Update expired documents before they lapse
Maintain Availability
- Keep your schedule current
- Mark days you're unavailable
- Respond quickly to invitations
Build Your Reputation
- Complete shifts you accept
- Arrive on time
- Provide excellent care
- Get positive reviews
Note
Workers with complete profiles and good ratings are matched 3x more often.
Shift Alerts & Notifications
Never miss an opportunity:
Push Notifications
- Enable notifications in the app
- Get alerts for new matching shifts
- Receive reminders for upcoming shifts
Email Alerts
- Daily or weekly shift digests
- Custom alert preferences
- Important updates
SMS Notifications
- Critical shift updates
- Time-sensitive invitations
- Emergency staffing needs
Viewing Shift History
Track your past shifts:
- Go to Profile > Shift History
- View completed, cancelled, and upcoming shifts
- Download payment records
- See your ratings and reviews
Common Questions
Why am I not seeing any shifts?
- Check your location settings
- Ensure your profile is complete
- Verify your credentials are approved
- Expand your search filters
Can I apply for multiple shifts at the same time?
Yes, but be careful of scheduling conflicts. If you're approved for overlapping shifts, you must cancel one immediately.
How far in advance are shifts posted?
Shifts can be posted from 24 hours to several weeks in advance. Check regularly for new opportunities.
What if I need to cancel after being approved?
Contact the facility as soon as possible. Cancellations within 24 hours may affect your rating.
Next Steps
- Managing Availability - Keep your schedule updated
- Earnings & Payments - Understand how you get paid
- Ratings & Reviews - Build your reputation