Research Officer (SOG/ST 5)

JOB PURPOSE:

Under the general direction of the M&E Director, and working in close collaboration with M&E Analyst and Project Analysis and PDSS staff, the Research Assistant is responsible for providing support and assistance in identifying and establishing project M&E data and information needs; researching, collecting, collating, analyzing, and reporting on statistical information and data; and establishing a database of M&E related data and information, as a basis for evaluation of project performance, ensure evidenced based decision-making and the attainment of project objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Technical/Professional Responsibilities

• Works collaboratively with M&E and Project Analysis and PDSS staff in providing project related technical support, advice and guidance to MDAs in:
  • developing M&E framework for projects
  • identifying and implementing data collection and related system needs
  • establishing baseline data for tracking changes from baseline conditions
• Develops, tests and implements a data model for documenting and organizing data for M&E activities in support of MDAs
• Supports the Director in the development and implementation of M&E tools for data collection, analysis and reporting on project indicators by MDAs
• Participates in developing research and survey instruments and in the collection and collation of research and evaluation data as a basis for establishing baseline and end-line data and identifying models of best practices and benchmarks
• Analyzes quantitative and qualitative research data and contributes to the reporting and interpretation of findings to inform project appraisals
• Identifies strengths and weaknesses in existing data collection systems and propose solutions
• Ensures data collected is credible, user friendly and aids and facilitates development and refinement of M&E Plans 
• Develops spreadsheets and database to support project M&E activities in the MDAs
• Participates in the analysis, interpretation and verification of MDA M&E framework in order to assess adequacy for use in identify trends, patterns and changes in project activity and performance 
• Supports the Director in preparing periodic and special statistical and narrative reports as required, including, chart, tables and graphs indicating trends, patterns and relationships, on the basis of data collected and analyzed 
• Stays abreast of trends and developments in the field of research and statistical analysis by participating in conferences, workshops and seminars; reading professional publications; maintaining professional networks; and participating in professional organizations

Other 

• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as may be determined by the Director

Management/Administrative

• Supports the Director in making presentations to stakeholders on the findings of data analysis 
• Prepares internal periodic and special reports on areas of responsibility including the status of assignments, problems and solutions
• Provides inputs into the development of the Management Information Systems that tracks and monitors progress on projects

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

Core

• Ability to work independently as well as with cross-functional teams
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing and with diverse stakeholders
• Ability to articulate technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Well-developed planning, analytical and organizing skills
• Ability to forge effective working relationships internally and externally
• Ability to demonstrate sound and objective judgment in decision making 
• Performance and outcome oriented 
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to work under pressure in meeting demanding schedules and timelines 

Technical 

• Knowledge of research and data collection and analysis methodologies and techniques 
• Ability to design surveys, tools and mechanisms for data collection and analysis
• Ability to quality assures, verify and validate data
• Ability to analyse and synthesize quantitative and qualitative information and data to produce reports
• Proficiency in data analysis packages such as SAS and SPSS and database management systems such as Access and Excel

QUALIFICATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent, preferably in, Economics, Statistics or other relevant Social Science field
• Specialized Training in Monitoring and Evaluation or Project Planning
• Two (2) years of proven experience conducting research, data collection and statistical analysis in a multi-sectoral/agency setting
• Proven experience in data model design and implementation and database management

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB:

• Work is performed in normal office conditions may be required to work beyond normal working hours in order to meet deadlines.

We thank all applicants for the interest expressed; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.