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 to address the interrelated development and humanitarian challenges, FHI 360 operates in more than 70 countries, employing experts in various fields such as 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.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Officer will work under the supervision of the MEAL Team Leader, providing technical support for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of integrated health, nutrition, WASH, and protection activities in the Afder Zone of Ethiopia. The role involves collecting and managing data within the integrated project MEAL system, ensuring adherence to core humanitarian standards, and collaborating with program staff to ensure timely and accurate monitoring reports. The MEAL Officer will also engage in community participation and feedback mechanisms, ensuring that beneficiaries are informed of their rights and entitlements, and that their feedback is addressed appropriately. This position is crucial for enhancing the quality and accountability of humanitarian interventions in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Officer's responsibilities include the development and implementation of MEAL systems and tools at the field level, coordinating the maintenance of databases for tracking data from various interventions, and participating in the creation of project MEAL plans. 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 compile monthly narrative updates, ensure community feedback mechanisms are functional, and assist in documenting program results and lessons learned. The role also involves providing technical guidance to project teams, conducting training on MEAL tools, and ensuring adherence to FHI 360's principles and values.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proficiency in database management software and online search tools, with experience in using tools like Kobo and Power BI. A strong understanding of cultural diversity and the political context in assigned areas is essential. The candidate should have excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical skills, 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 ability to implement corrective actions as needed. Fluency in English, Amharic, and Somali is mandatory.

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. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively carry out the responsibilities of the MEAL Officer role.

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 required. 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 candidate should be driven, able to manage multiple tasks, and passionate about humanitarian work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in local languages such as Amharic and Somali. Strong oral and written communication skills in these languages are essential for effective engagement with 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 of approximately 10% to 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its programs. The organization emphasizes the importance of a healthy work/life balance and offers a competitive benefits package to its employees.