Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist, STRIDES

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long-lasting way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, and economic development. The organization operates in multiple countries, including all U.S. states and territories, and has a significant presence in Kenya, where it focuses on enhancing health systems and community resilience.

Job Overview:
The Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist will play a crucial role in providing technical support for the STRIDES activity in Kenya, which aims to strengthen infectious disease detection systems. This position involves developing and updating the performance monitoring plan, creating data collection tools, and tracking implementation progress. The specialist will also oversee project reporting, documentation, and dissemination of success stories, ensuring that the project team is informed about monitoring and evaluation guidelines. The role requires collaboration with both project and headquarters teams to evaluate program effectiveness and provide technical assessment reports, making it essential for the specialist to have a comprehensive understanding of monitoring and evaluation practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior MEL Specialist will be responsible for providing overall technical direction and guidance to project staff, ensuring that the STRIDES performance monitoring plan is effectively implemented. Key responsibilities include leading program evaluations, managing project indicators, and supporting strategies for technical assistance. The specialist will also develop technical briefs and reports, conduct analyses to identify areas for improvement, and ensure compliance with FHI 360’s standards and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the role involves fostering information exchange among project staff, guiding data collection and analysis, and contributing to technical work plans and budget development. The specialist will monitor project deliverables and provide necessary MEL technical support as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of monitoring and evaluation concepts, practices, and procedures, along with experience in developing scopes of work for partners and consultants. Proficiency in database management software and online search tools is required, as well as sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of political and ethical issues in the region. Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively with clients and staff. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and possess the ability to analyze data and prepare reports.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, or a related field 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 contribute to the monitoring and evaluation of health projects.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant experience in strategic information, monitoring, evaluation, and learning, particularly in managing data collection for health projects. Experience working with health information systems in Kenya is preferred, along with prior work experience in NGOs, government agencies, or private organizations. Proficiency in data management and analytic software, such as MS Excel, MS Power BI, Tableau, SAS, SPSS, or Stata, is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Kenyan context may be considered beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may involve typical office demands, including the ability to work long hours on a computer. The role is full-time and may require occasional travel within the country. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation, requiring all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct. Employment offers will be subject to screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks.