Monitoreo, Evaluación, Rendición de cuentas y Aprendizaje (MEAL) Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a humanitarian organization established in 1946, dedicated to assisting and protecting the rights of displaced and vulnerable people. With a mission to help those affected by displacement, NRC operates in multiple countries around the world, providing aid in various forms including education, shelter, and legal assistance. The organization employs thousands of staff globally, working in diverse environments to ensure that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are met. NRC is committed to accountability, transparency, and the effective implementation of its programs, ensuring that the voices of those it serves are heard and considered in all aspects of its work.

Job Overview:
The position of MEAL Support Officer is crucial for ensuring that the programs implemented by NRC in Panama are executed effectively and in alignment with the organization's overall strategy. The officer will support program staff in the correct implementation of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) processes. This role involves working closely with various teams to ensure that projects are monitored and evaluated according to established guidelines and standards. The MEAL Support Officer will be responsible for developing and maintaining knowledge in their area of specialization, which will enhance their effectiveness in supporting the team. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to prepare and develop necessary reports, ensuring that documentation is properly archived and that ideas for improving the role's functions are actively promoted.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Support Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including ensuring adherence to NRC policies, tools, manuals, and guidelines relevant to their functions. They will support the implementation of projects according to the defined action plan and will be responsible for organizing and executing tasks based on assigned priorities and standards. Specific duties include providing support for project monitoring activities, managing information about the population served, assisting in consolidating information for needs assessments and programmatic reports, facilitating routines to ensure data quality and compliance with reporting indicators, and supporting the application and systematization of surveys and other measurement tools. The officer will also be the focal point for receiving complaints and feedback through established digital channels, and will undertake other tasks assigned by the supervisor that are related to the objectives of the position and assigned projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the MEAL Support Officer position should possess a professional background or be in their final semesters of studies in social sciences, economics, administration, engineering, or related fields that involve project management and information analysis. Experience working or interning with an international NGO, particularly in developing MEL systems, is preferred. Knowledge of current monitoring and evaluation principles and approaches in development and emergency programs, using both quantitative and qualitative methods, is essential. Proficiency in Spanish (speaking, reading, writing) is mandatory, along with strong analytical and computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office applications. Familiarity with data collection, management, and presentation tools is also required.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is crucial for this position. Candidates should have a degree or be pursuing a degree in fields such as social sciences, economics, administration, engineering, or other related disciplines that provide a foundation for project management and data analysis. This educational background will equip candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support the MEAL processes within NRC's operations in Panama.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, which can include work or internship experience in an international NGO setting. This experience should preferably involve exposure to the development of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning systems. Candidates should demonstrate familiarity with the principles and practices of monitoring and evaluation in both development and emergency contexts, showcasing their ability to apply these principles in real-world scenarios.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the role involves communication and documentation in this language. While not required, proficiency in English is highly valued and considered a plus, as it enhances the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments and with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve a full-time commitment, and while specific contract duration details are not provided, candidates should be prepared for a role that may require flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment. The MEAL Support Officer will be expected to work collaboratively with various teams and stakeholders, contributing to the overall mission of NRC in supporting displaced and vulnerable populations.