Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that aims to improve 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, and economic development, and is committed to safeguarding the welfare of everyone who engages with its programs.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Papua New Guinea. This position is responsible for maintaining and implementing the monitoring and evaluation processes of the project. The MEL Officer will engage in routine data collection and reporting, conduct data quality checks, track indicators, and document learning for adaptive management. Additionally, the officer will provide basic MEL guidance to staff and partners, contribute to MEL sections of project documents, and support the development and delivery of MEL trainings. The role also involves preparing data summaries and visualizations, as well as providing administrative support to core MEL and project operations, ensuring that the project meets its objectives effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Officer will assist in providing technical support in the development and dissemination of tools, materials, reports, and interventions for projects. They will ensure quality control and quality assurance support, conduct literature searches, and contribute to the sharing of lessons and best practices. The officer will work closely with the assigned team to implement activities according to standard operating procedures, monitor and maintain protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports. They will participate in client and funder meetings, prepare Requests for Proposals, respond to inquiries from internal and external staff, and provide administrative and logistic support to the technical team. The MEL Officer will support the preparation of quarterly and annual reports, write and edit technical documents, gather necessary data for reports, and assist with technical troubleshooting and data analysis. They will ensure proper documentation and reporting of services rendered to clients and compile technical content for various outputs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency with database management software and online search tools. They should have the ability to develop scopes of work and deliverables for partners and consultants, possess sensitivity to cultural diversity, and understand the political and ethical issues in assigned areas. Excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are required. The ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare reports is essential, along with problem-solving skills and the ability to implement corrective actions as needed.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's Degree or its international equivalent in Public Health, Data Science, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in public health contexts.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 2+ years of relevant experience managing data collection, monitoring, evaluation, and capacity strengthening in the country. Experience in providing technical assistance is also important. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private company is preferred, as it equips candidates with the necessary skills and insights for the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Additional languages may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in a typical office environment, requiring the ability to spend long hours looking at a computer screen and performing repetitive tasks. Candidates should be able to sit and stand for extended periods and lift/move up to 5 lbs. The role may require domestic travel up to 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 fosters a healthy work/life balance and offers a competitive benefits package.