Overall purpose of the role:
- The MEAL Officer will be responsible for ensuring effective monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning systems are in place to support project implementation and improve decision-making. The role includes designing and implementing MEAL frameworks, tools, and processes, as well as training staff and partners to ensure highquality data collection and analysis.
Core Functions / Responsibilities
Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Develop and implement MEAL plans for programs and projects in alignment with organizational standards and donor requirements.
- Design and refine data collection tools, methodologies, and indicators to monitor project progress and outcomes.
- Conduct regular field visits to monitor project activities and ensure data quality and accuracy.
- Coordinate baseline, midline, and endline surveys, as well as other evaluations.
Accountability:
- Establish and manage feedback and complaints mechanisms to ensure community participation and accountability.
- Ensure timely and appropriate responses to community feedback.
- Promote accountability by involving stakeholders in project planning, implementation, and evaluation processes.
Learning:
- Analyze and interpret data to identify trends, successes, and areas for improvement.
- Facilitate learning sessions, including After-Action Reviews (AARs) and workshops, to share best practices and lessons learned.
- Collaborate with project teams to integrate learning into program design and implementation.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Prepare high-quality MEAL reports for internal and external stakeholders, including donors.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of MEAL activities and project progress.
- Contribute to donor reporting and proposal development by providing relevant data and insights.
Capacity Building:
- Train staff and partners on MEAL concepts, tools, and processes.
- Provide ongoing support and mentorship to build organizational capacity for MEAL.
Coordination and Collaboration:
- Work closely with program teams to ensure alignment between MEAL activities and project objectives.
- Liaise with external stakeholders, including partners and donors, on MEAL-related matters.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Monitoring & Evaluation, Statistics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related field.
Experience:
- At least 3-5 years of relevant experience in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning in humanitarian or development programs.
- Experience with data collection, analysis, and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, Power BI, Kobo Toolbox).
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong understanding of MEAL principles and frameworks.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Knowledge of local context and language(s) is an advantage.
- Perform any other job required by COWACDI.
Key Relationships:
- Internal: Program Manager, MEAL Coordinator, Project Teams, Field Staff.
- External: Partners, Donors, Community Members.