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 the interrelated development and humanitarian challenges, FHI 360 operates in more than 70 countries and employs 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.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Officer position is crucial for ensuring the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of integrated health, nutrition, WASH, and protection activities in the Southern Tigray Zone, specifically based at the Maichew Field Office. Under the supervision of the MEAL Team Leader, the officer will provide technical support and ensure that the MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) systems are effectively implemented. This role involves collecting and managing data, ensuring accountability, and engaging with program staff to produce accurate monitoring reports. The MEAL Officer will also be responsible for promoting community participation and ensuring that beneficiaries are informed of their rights and entitlements, thereby enhancing the overall impact of the programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Officer will be responsible for the development and implementation of MEAL systems and tools at the field level, ensuring that any issues are communicated promptly to the MEAL Team Leader or Coordinator. Key responsibilities include coordinating the development and maintenance of databases for tracking data from various interventions, participating in the creation of project MEAL plans, supporting field staff in data collection, conducting regular field visits to monitor project implementation, and performing data quality assessments. The officer will compile monthly narrative updates, ensure community feedback mechanisms are functional, and assist in the documentation and sharing of program results. Additionally, the MEAL Officer will provide technical guidance to project teams, support training for staff on MEAL tools, and ensure 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 platforms such as Kobo and Power BI. A strong understanding of cultural diversity and the political context in the assigned areas is essential. The candidate should have excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical skills, and the ability to analyze data and prepare reports. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required, along with the ability to solve problems and implement corrective actions as necessary. Fluency in English and Amharic is mandatory, with knowledge of Tigrigna being an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Master's or Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Economics, Sociology, Social Work, Public Health, Nutrition, Project Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, or related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in humanitarian and development 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 essential. 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 is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, along with proficiency in Amharic. Knowledge of Tigrigna is considered a strong asset, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and typically reports to the MEAL Coordinator. The job is based in an office environment with some travel requirements of 10% to 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and encourages professional development, supporting a healthy work/life balance.