Consultant for Baseline Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children is a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and ensuring their rights are upheld. Established in 1919, Save the Children operates in over 100 countries, employing thousands of staff and collaborating with local partners to deliver impactful programs. The organization focuses on various sectors, including child protection, education, health, and humanitarian assistance, striving to create a world where every child can thrive and reach their full potential. Save the Children is committed to fostering a healthy work-life balance for its employees and values the diverse talents and personalities that contribute to its mission.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in conducting a baseline assessment for the Together for Safe Families project, which aims to reduce violence against children in Papua New Guinea. This project is part of Save the Children's strategic priorities and is funded by the Australian Government. The consultant will be responsible for establishing a robust evidence base to measure the project's progress and impact. This includes assessing key indicators related to child protection, positive parenting, and gender norms. The consultant will also contribute to the project's learning agenda by evaluating integrated approaches and the effectiveness of home visits in enhancing parenting outcomes. The assignment is set to commence in November 2025 and conclude in March 2026, requiring a comprehensive understanding of child protection issues and the ability to engage with various stakeholders in the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Developing a detailed inception report that outlines a participatory methodological approach, sampling frame, and data collection tools.
• Recruiting, training, and managing field-level enumerators as necessary.
• Planning and independently conducting data collection activities in targeted communities, ensuring quality assurance throughout the process.
• Translating, cleaning, and analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data collected during the assessment.
• Producing and presenting findings in a narrative report and presentation for key stakeholders, incorporating feedback to finalize a comprehensive report.
• Sharing final clean and raw datasets in accordance with Save the Children's data protection policy. The consultant will need to ensure that all activities are conducted ethically and inclusively, particularly when involving children and other vulnerable groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in designing and conducting assessments or evaluations, particularly those involving qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. Experience in the field of child protection is essential, along with familiarity with conducting studies in the Pacific region. Existing networks of enumerators in the area will be highly regarded. The consultant should also demonstrate experience in managing and coordinating with various stakeholders, including government and non-government organizations, as well as community groups. Additionally, the consultant must have a proven track record of conducting ethical and inclusive studies that engage children and marginalized groups in culturally sensitive ways.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in social sciences, public health, education, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection, evaluation methodologies, or research methods will be considered an asset. The consultant should also have a strong understanding of child rights and protection issues, particularly in the context of Papua New Guinea.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in conducting baseline assessments or evaluations, particularly in the field of child protection. Candidates should have a minimum of several years of relevant experience, ideally with a focus on qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Experience working in the Pacific region and familiarity with local contexts will be highly beneficial. The consultant should also have a history of engaging with diverse stakeholders and managing complex projects effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in this language. Proficiency in Tok Pisin or other local languages would be advantageous, as it would facilitate better engagement with community members and stakeholders during the assessment process.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy assignment is short-term, commencing in November 2025 and concluding in March 202

• The consultant will be expected to work independently while also collaborating with Save the Children staff and local stakeholders. The position may require travel to various communities within Papua New Guinea, and the consultant should be prepared to manage logistics and costs associated with this travel. Compensation details, including daily rates and any applicable taxes, should be outlined in the financial proposal submitted with the application. Save the Children Australia is committed to child safety, and all consultants must undergo necessary background checks and adhere to the organization's Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.