Consultant for Livelihood Study

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address humanitarian needs, Mercy Corps operates in more than 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. The organization emphasizes diversity within its teams, believing that varied backgrounds, perspectives, and skills contribute to a stronger impact and long-term success. Mercy Corps has developed a Crisis Analysis function to enhance its programming in complex contexts, including regions like Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Ukraine, providing timely and relevant analytical products to support humanitarian efforts.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for the Livelihood Study will play a crucial role in generating a robust evidence base regarding the role of livelihoods in shaping return preparedness and durable solutions for Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). This position involves managing and overseeing the study, ensuring compliance with Mercy Corps’ research standards, and leading qualitative research methodology and design. The consultant will be responsible for developing the inception report, conducting key informant interviews, and analyzing research findings. The study aims to assess how current livelihood interventions respond to existing and future needs, influencing return-related decision-making for refugees and IDPs. The consultant will also produce a thematic report with actionable recommendations for practitioners and stakeholders involved in the humanitarian response.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Providing overall project management and technical oversight for the study, ensuring adherence to Mercy Corps’ research standards and timelines.
• Leading the qualitative research methodology and design, including the development of the inception report and data collection tools.
• Conducting key informant interviews with stakeholders to validate analytical findings and ensure comprehensive data collection.
• Analyzing qualitative data and producing transcripts that are anonymized and coded.
• Leading the production of a thematic report that includes clear findings and recommendations based on the research.
• Presenting initial findings to internal stakeholders and facilitating feedback for revisions.
• Engaging in external events to disseminate findings and contribute to discussions on the study's implications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this consultancy must possess a strong background in research methodologies, particularly qualitative research. They should have experience in project management, especially in humanitarian or development contexts. Familiarity with the socio-economic conditions affecting Syrian refugees and IDPs is essential. The consultant should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to synthesize complex information, and excellent communication skills for both written and oral presentations. Additionally, the consultant should be adept at engaging with diverse stakeholders and facilitating discussions around sensitive topics.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in social sciences, international development, public policy, or a related field is required. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in research methodologies will be preferred. Relevant certifications in project management or research ethics may also be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in research, project management, or consultancy within humanitarian or development sectors. Experience working with displaced populations, particularly in the context of the Syrian crisis, is highly desirable. The consultant should have a proven track record of conducting qualitative research and producing high-quality analytical reports.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in Arabic being highly desirable due to the context of the study. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last approximately 12–14 weeks, structured into phases including inception, data collection, analysis, and finalization. The consultant will be compensated based on their level of experience and expertise, with the total consultancy requiring up to 25 working days. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.