National Consultant for Assessment of the IMPAK Caregiver Programme

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and is known for its diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large number of staff globally and operates in various sectors to support children and communities, ensuring that their work is impactful and meaningful. The organization values diversity and inclusion, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to its mission.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Assessment of the IMPAK Caregiver Programme will play a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of the caregiver support initiatives under Selangor’s Care Economy Policy and the Selangor Early Childhood Development Policy. This position involves a comprehensive assessment of the current caregiver programs aimed at increasing women's labor force participation and improving early childhood development outcomes. The consultant will be expected to analyze data, conduct stakeholder engagements, and provide insights that will help strengthen support for caregivers and enhance the overall care workforce. The role requires a deep understanding of early childhood development and the ability to assess both informal and formal caregiving settings. The consultant will also be responsible for synthesizing findings and making recommendations that align with UNICEF's mission to advocate for every child's right to care.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a thorough assessment of the IMPAK Caregiver Programme, including data collection and analysis.
• Engage with stakeholders, including caregivers, policymakers, and community organizations, to gather qualitative insights.
• Organize and facilitate focus groups and key informant interviews to understand the experiences of caregivers.
• Analyze survey data and other quantitative information to evaluate program impact.
• Prepare detailed reports summarizing findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with UNICEF and local partners to ensure alignment with broader early childhood development goals.
• Present findings to relevant stakeholders, including government agencies and community organizations.
• Ensure that all assessments are conducted in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of participants, particularly vulnerable populations.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in Early Childhood Development, Child Development, Education, Social Policy, Public Policy, Social Work, Public Health, Sociology, Psychology, Behavioral Sciences, or related fields.
• At least 8 years of relevant work experience in early childhood development or related areas.
• Proven skills in data analysis, research methods, impact evaluation, and policy analysis.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including government officials and community members.
• Familiarity with disability-inclusive care and support systems is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Early Childhood Development, Child Development, Education, Social Policy, Public Policy, Social Work, Public Health, Sociology, Psychology, or Behavioral Sciences. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct a comprehensive assessment of caregiver programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in early childhood development or related fields. This experience should include a strong focus on impact evaluation and mixed-methods research, demonstrating the ability to analyze data and engage with stakeholders effectively. Prior experience in assessing caregiver training programs or social care services is highly desirable, as is familiarity with early childhood development standards and practices.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with fluency preferred. This ensures effective communication with stakeholders and the ability to produce high-quality reports and presentations. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timeline. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure adherence to UNICEF's standards and principles.