Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with options to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The UNHCR operates in numerous countries, providing essential support to displaced populations and working closely with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and other UN agencies.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Officer position is critical in the context of Mali, which is currently facing a complex humanitarian crisis characterized by insecurity, forced displacement, and food insecurity. The MEAL Officer will be stationed at the UNHCR office in Bamako and will work under the direct supervision of the Senior Data Coordinator. This role involves strategic coordination, programmatic monitoring, and providing technical support to sub-offices and implementing partners across Mali. The MEAL Officer is expected to strengthen MEAL systems to ensure the quality of interventions, accountability to affected populations, efficient resource use, and continuous improvement of UNHCR programs. The position also entails producing data-driven analyses, monitoring performance indicators, managing feedback and complaint mechanisms, and building the capacity of UNHCR teams and partners in MEAL.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Officer will be responsible for establishing and managing the MEAL system, which includes designing and maintaining the project results framework, defining and updating MEAL indicators, and developing the MEAL Plan. They will implement performance monitoring by designing data collection tools, establishing monitoring systems, and analyzing performance data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. The officer will manage data quality and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by establishing a centralized MEAL database, implementing data quality assurance procedures, and training teams on MEAL standards. Additionally, they will plan and coordinate evaluations, design accountability mechanisms for beneficiaries, and promote learning and knowledge management within the organization. The officer will also produce periodic reports for donors and provide technical support to partners, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and safeguarding policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of monitoring and evaluation principles, data management, and accountability mechanisms. They should demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and the ability to work effectively in a diverse environment. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders are essential. The candidate should also have experience in capacity building and training, as well as a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, statistics, international development, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in monitoring and evaluation, data analysis, or related areas would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in monitoring and evaluation, preferably in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience working with UN agencies or international NGOs is highly desirable. Familiarity with the specific challenges and dynamics of the humanitarian situation in Mali will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Mali would be considered an advantage, as it would facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a volunteer role under the UN Volunteers program, and selected candidates will be required to undergo mandatory security training. The living conditions may involve working in potentially hazardous and remote areas, requiring adaptability and resilience. The role may also involve travel within the operational area and participation in various UNV activities to promote volunteerism.