Project Officer MEAL

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes staff from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture aimed at improving the lives of the poor worldwide, and it has a strong focus on building trust and integrity within its operations.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer MEAL will play a crucial role in the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) activities of the project under the guidance of the coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">MEAL Coordinator. This position involves a variety of responsibilities including monitoring project indicators, developing M&E tools, conducting assessments, managing beneficiary databases, and implementing accountability mechanisms. The officer will be responsible for compiling reports on a monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly basis, ensuring that all MEAL activities align with donor regulations and project goals. The role requires frequent travel to project sites, indicating a dynamic work environment where the officer will engage with various stakeholders, including project managers and emergency coordinators, to ensure effective implementation of MEAL strategies. The officer will also be expected to promote the use of Information Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) solutions throughout the project, enhancing data collection and analysis processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer MEAL will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties including: facilitating the SMILER workshop at project initiation, leading nutrition assessments, tracking project performance against indicators, and managing beneficiary databases. The officer will conduct baseline studies, on-site monitoring, and post-distribution surveys, as well as market assessments for project sites. Regular collection and analysis of market price data will be required, along with the review and cleaning of project data. The officer will ensure timely evaluations and the development of M&E tools, while collaborating with the Accountability Officer to manage feedback and complaints systems. Additional responsibilities include training enumerators, supervising data collection, maintaining IT equipment, and compiling yearly beneficiary data. The officer will also be tasked with sharing lessons learned and formulating recommendations for improved programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent interpersonal skills, demonstrating the ability to interact professionally with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. A commitment to confidentiality, gender-responsive programming, and the ability to work effectively under pressure are essential. Attention to detail, proactive problem-solving skills, and a strong understanding of NGOs' responsibilities towards beneficiaries are also required. The ideal candidate should have a thorough technical knowledge of MEAL processes and experience in database management, as well as familiarity with GIS and GPS technology. Proficiency in quantitative statistical management programs such as Microsoft Access, SPSS, EPI-INFO, STATA, and Microsoft Excel is preferred, along with strong facilitation skills for group processes.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Information and Technology Management, Statistics, or a relevant equivalent field is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 4 years of full-time experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL), preferably within an international NGO setting. This experience is crucial for understanding the operational and strategic aspects of MEAL activities and for effectively contributing to the project’s success.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hausa is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the project context. Proficiency in any other local languages is considered desirable and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse community members.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and may require travel up to 20% of the time to field locations. The role involves supervisory responsibilities over the Partner MEAL Assistant and requires collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits are based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a commitment to safeguarding program participants and maintaining the dignity of all individuals involved in its operations. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the location of the position and may need to undergo medical clearance as part of the hiring process.