MEL Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors, including health, education, nutrition, and economic development, and aims to strengthen multisectoral food systems and nutrition governance globally.

Job Overview:
The MEL Specialist position is crucial for supporting the Regional Food System and Nutrition Coordination Office (FSNCO) in Ethiopia. This role involves providing technical and operational support to enhance monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) processes for the implementation of the Ethiopian Food Systems Transformation (EFST), Food and Nutrition Strategy (FNS), and Seqota Declaration at various administrative levels. The MEL Specialist will ensure the functionality of the MEL system on a day-to-day basis, which includes routine data compilation, quality assurance, and reporting. The position requires collaboration with sector bureaus, FSNCO staff, and implementing partners, and it is designed to strengthen data use and capacity within government-led coordination structures. The MEL Specialist will also be responsible for synthesizing multisectoral data to assess progress against targets and milestones, thereby contributing to evidence-based decision-making and performance management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Specialist will serve as the primary regional focal point for the collection, management, and quality assurance of routine multisectoral food systems and nutrition monitoring data. Responsibilities include compiling, cleaning, validating, and analyzing data from various sources, ensuring data quality through routine checks, and maintaining organized electronic databases. The specialist will provide technical support to regional multisectoral coordination platforms, prepare performance reports, document meeting proceedings, and track implementation of corrective actions. Additionally, the role involves participating in monitoring visits, providing technical assistance and mentoring to sector MEL focal persons, and contributing to the development of MEL capacity-building activities. The MEL Specialist will also document best practices and lessons learned, support the dissemination of results, and assist in the development of annual work plans and budgets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of monitoring and evaluation concepts, practices, and procedures, particularly in the context of food systems and nutrition. Proficiency in database management software and online search tools is required, along with excellent organizational and analytical skills. Strong project management skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders are essential. Candidates should demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity and possess the ability to analyze and interpret data accurately. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite is mandatory, and candidates should have the ability to solve problems and implement corrective actions as needed.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Civil Society, Communication and Social Marketing, Economic Development, Education, Environment, Gender, Health, Nutrition, Research, Technology, or Youth is required. A Project Management (PM) Certification is preferred, indicating a strong foundation in managing projects effectively.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in managing data collection and providing technical assistance. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization is essential. Experience in international or domestic program development or program management is preferred, highlighting the need for a strong background in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak clearly. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as mid-level technical (Band K / KK) and may require travel of 10% to 25%. The job is based in Ethiopia, and FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a non-discriminatory hiring process. The organization emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments and requires all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct. The job posting does not specify a deadline for applications, and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.