MEAL Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development and humanitarian challenges, FHI 360 operates in more than 70 countries, employing experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender equality, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. The organization is committed to responding to humanitarian emergencies, such as the current crisis in Ethiopia, through integrated programs that focus on health, nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and protection to improve the health of conflict-affected populations.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Officer position is crucial for the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of integrated health, nutrition, WASH, and protection activities in the Waghimra Zone of Ethiopia. Reporting to the MEAL Team Leader, the officer will provide technical support to ensure that monitoring and evaluation activities are conducted efficiently. This role involves collecting and managing data within the integrated project MEAL system, ensuring accountability, and adhering to core humanitarian standards. The MEAL Officer will engage with program staff to ensure timely and accurate completion of monitoring reports and assist all technical teams in fulfilling MEAL documentation requirements. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying issues and inefficiencies in MEAL systems and tools, as well as supporting field staff in data collection and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Officer will be responsible for the development and implementation of MEAL systems and tools at the field level. Key responsibilities include coordinating the development and maintenance of databases for tracking data from various interventions, participating in the creation of project MEAL plans, and supporting field staff in collecting monitoring data. The officer will conduct regular field visits to monitor project implementation, assess data quality, and participate in baseline and endline surveys. Additionally, the officer will promote community participation in planning and evaluation, ensure beneficiaries are informed of their rights, and manage feedback and complaints effectively. The role also involves providing technical guidance to project teams, conducting training on MEAL tools, and documenting lessons learned and best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in database management software and online search tools, with experience in using platforms like Kobo and Power BI. A strong understanding of cultural diversity and the political context in Ethiopia is essential. The ideal candidate will possess excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. The ability to analyze data, identify errors, and prepare reports is crucial, along with problem-solving skills and the capacity to implement corrective actions as needed. Fluency in English and Amharic is mandatory, with additional language skills considered an asset.

Educational Background:
A Master's or Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Economics, Sociology, Social Work, Public Health, Nutrition, Project Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, or a relevant discipline is required for this position. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three to four years of proven experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Accountability (MEAL) within humanitarian or development programs. Hands-on experience with Microsoft applications, particularly Excel and Word, as well as digital data collection tools, is necessary. Previous experience in health, nutrition, protection, and WASH programming is highly desirable, along with a good understanding of the UN Cluster System and international standards in humanitarian settings. The ability to manage multiple tasks and work flexibly in a team environment is essential, as is a passion for humanitarian work.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Amharic is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus and may enhance communication with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and typically reports to the MEAL Team Leader. The job may require travel, estimated at 10% to 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment. The organization requires all personnel to adhere to its principles and values, and all offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.