Technical Advisor (Monitoring, Evaluation and Research)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, emphasizing a culture of inclusivity and growth.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor (Monitoring, Evaluation and Research) position at UNICEF involves developing and implementing a structured annual monitoring framework aligned with the new sector and corporate plan. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of educational programs. The advisor will support the development of evaluation plans, assist in reporting requirements, and engage in data analysis to improve educational outcomes. The position also entails providing technical capacity development and facilitating skills transfer within the team and across the Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies. The advisor will be expected to actively participate in meetings, present findings, and support senior members of the PPRD as needed, ensuring that all actions align with UNICEF's mission to advocate for children's rights and educational access.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Advisor include:

• Developing and implementing an Annual Monitoring Framework in collaboration with PPRD staff.
• Creating and executing an Evaluation Plan to assess the impact and sustainability of educational strategies.
• Supporting the Assistant Chief Executive Office (ACEO) in responding to information requests related to social sector monitoring and evaluation.
• Assisting in the Education Sector Analysis and disseminating data to various stakeholders.
• Providing technical capacity development support to the Education Sector Plan (ESP) MELF.
• Coordinating project monitoring and reporting on progress and emerging issues.
• Overseeing risk management programs related to research and project activities.
• Engaging in divisional meetings and presenting M&E outcomes to the Ministry’s Full Executive Committee.
• Supporting the development of high-quality project briefs and research proposals. 1
• Ensuring effective communication and collaboration with internal and external parties to achieve project goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Education (with research) or a related field, along with a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in monitoring, evaluation, and research within the education sector. Extensive understanding of the policy, planning, and M&E cycle is essential, as is experience in designing and implementing research programs. Familiarity with the Pacific Islands region and prior work experience with UNICEF or a UN agency are advantageous. Strong analytical skills, the ability to produce high-quality reports, and effective communication skills are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Education is preferred, although a postgraduate qualification in a related field may be considered if accompanied by relevant experience. The educational background should include a focus on research methodologies applicable to the education sector, ensuring that candidates are well-equipped to handle the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in diverse educational contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in related fields, with increasing levels of responsibility and scope. Candidates should have a proven track record in monitoring and evaluation, particularly within the education sector, and experience working in developing countries is mandatory. Familiarity with the Pacific Islands region is a significant asset, as is experience working with UNICEF or similar UN agencies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF. Knowledge of Samoan is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultancy role with specific deliverables outlined in the Terms of Reference. Candidates are required to submit a cover letter, a technical proposal, and a financial offer detailing the all-inclusive lump sum amount for the deliverables. For international applicants, travel arrangements will include two economy return tickets, but no living allowance will be provided. The role emphasizes UNICEF's commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their background. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must meet medical clearance requirements, including vaccination against COVID-19, prior to commencing their assignment.