Project Monitoring, Evaluation and Learnings Officer

Job Posting Organization:
VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) is an international development organization that aims to tackle poverty through the power of volunteering. Established in 1961, VSO has been working for over six decades to create lasting change in communities around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various sectors including education, health, and livelihoods. VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, believing that progress is only possible by working together. The organization is committed to building sustainable relationships and facilitating positive change through its volunteers and employees.

Job Overview:
The Project Monitoring, Evaluation and Learnings Officer will play a crucial role in implementing the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) plan at the assigned cluster. This position is aligned with the i-Work MERL framework and VSO’s Measuring Impact for Learning and Empowerment (MILE) approach. The officer will be responsible for monitoring project progress, ensuring that performance is tracked against established targets and plans. This includes collecting and managing quality data, supporting assessments, and facilitating learning activities. The role also involves contributing to reports and generating evidence to share insights that will inform decision-making processes. The ideal candidate will be expected to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of project implementation and learning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Implement the MEL plan at the assigned cluster in accordance with the i-Work MERL framework and VSO’s MILE approach.
• Monitor project progress and track performance against targets and plans.
• Collect, manage, and analyze quality data to support project assessments and learning activities.
• Contribute to the preparation of reports and documentation that reflect project outcomes and insights.
• Facilitate learning activities that promote knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the project team and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with project staff and partners to ensure alignment with MEL objectives and practices.
• Support the development of tools and methodologies for effective monitoring and evaluation.
• Engage in capacity building initiatives to enhance the skills of team members in MEL practices.
• Ensure compliance with VSO’s policies and procedures related to monitoring and evaluation. 1
• Participate in regular meetings and workshops to share findings and contribute to strategic discussions.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of monitoring, evaluation, and learning principles and practices.
• Proven experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting in a development context.
• Familiarity with project management and implementation processes.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using data management software and tools for analysis and reporting.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, development studies, or a related discipline is required. A master’s degree or additional qualifications in monitoring and evaluation, project management, or a related area would be an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning within the development sector is required. Experience working in Ethiopia or similar contexts is highly desirable. Proven track record of implementing MEL frameworks and methodologies in project settings is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the project areas, such as Amharic or Tigrinya, would be an asset and is considered a good to have skill.

Additional Notes:
The position may require occasional travel to project sites within Ethiopia. VSO reserves the right to close this job early if a sufficient number of applications are received. The role may be full-time or part-time, and the specific details will be discussed during the interview process. VSO is committed to promoting equal opportunities and values diversity in its workforce.