Monitoring, Evaluation & Research Specialist

Job Summary

To initiate, design, develop, coordinate, and manage research and performance monitoring activities and systems including necessary data management and visualization software and data collection instruments, to collect, store, manage, analyze, and report data on output, outcome, and impact indicators. S/he will be responsible for managing daily operations of FEED learning agenda research projects ensuring that all aspects of study protocols are adhered to. S/he will support dissemination of key research findings and application into day-to-day program design and implementation.

Reporting line to Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Advisor

Principal Responsibilities

Protocol Development and Management:

• Conduct literature review across multiple topics.
• Develop research protocols, data collection tools and standard operation procedures as appropriate to the specific objectives of the study.
• Develop and pilot assessment and evaluation tools.
• Assist in Institutional Review Board (IRB) submission and update of documents and/or protocols.

Study Management:

• Request supplies and acquire and program or calibrate equipment necessary for research projects.
• Identify and compile lists of potential research subjects in accordance with study objectives and parameters, as appropriate.
• Develop or assist in the development of interview schedules; contact potential subjects to introduce and explain study objectives and protocol and to arrange interviews.
• Train and supervise data collectors working on the research projects.
• Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects, as necessary.
• Prepare progress reports on FEED research activities.
• Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information; follow up with subjects to resolve problems or clarify data collected.

Data Management and Results Dissemination:

• Develop and manage performance monitoring activities and systems, including necessary data management and visualization software and data collection instruments, to collect, store, manage, analyze and report on output, outcome, and impact indicators.
• Liaise with multiple stakeholders (FEED Colleagues, donors, sub-awardees, implementation partners, Universities & Research Institutions, private firms, etc.) for timely data collection, verification, and feedback.
• Conduct regular and ad-hoc program data analysis and work closely with the MEL Advisor to develop reports (monthly, quarterly, annual) to demonstrate progress and facilitate continuous learning and program management, and support other learning, communications, and thought leadership materials and activities.
• Analyze research data using various statistical methods.
• Provide ready access to all survey data for Principal Investigators and the study team.
• Prepare research findings to summarize data and the implications of the results for dissemination and publication through reports, presentations, and articles.
• Write and contribute to publications.
• Compile data for progress reports.

Job Level Specifications

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders for data collection, data verification, reporting and dissemination.
• Proficiency in using ODK Collect, STATA, DHIS2 and other statistical packages for quantitative data analysis and visualization; as well as qualitative data analysis software such as NVivo among others.
• Strong computer knowledge including use of Microsoft packages such as Ms. Word, Ms. PowerPoint, Ms. Excel.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and complete fluency in English.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, be able to work independently and an ability to work with a team of researchers, program staff, government counterparts and partners
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in related field such as Public Health, Demography or Social Sciences with a minimum of five years’ experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research. Or a master’s degree in the same with at least three years’ experience.
• Experience in survey design, implementation, and data management as well as supervising data collection, teams of field workers.

KPIs

• Ability to perform in all key areas of the role
• Good time management and consistency
• Attention to detail
• Creativity and innovation
• Proactiveness and taking initiative

Safeguarding Policy

FTC strives to provide an environment free from sexual exploitation and abuse and harassment in all places where relief and development programs are implemented. FTC holds a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse and harassment. FTC expects its employees to maintain high ethical standards, protect organizational integrity and reputation, and ensure that FTC work is carried out in honest and fair methods, in alignment with the FTC Heartbeat and safeguarding and associated policies. Violations to stated policies will be subject to corrective action up to and including termination of employment.