Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, and economic development. The organization operates in multiple countries, leveraging its unique mix of capabilities to create impactful solutions. With a commitment to fostering a culture of data use and continuous learning, FHI 360 aims to enhance the effectiveness of its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) project in Guatemala. This position involves overseeing the operational implementation of the Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan (AMELP), which includes managing data collection systems, tracking indicators, and ensuring the accuracy and completeness of data reporting. The MEL Officer will work closely with the MEL Advisor to provide technical input and analytical support related to public health surveillance systems and health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security initiatives. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges in implementation and contributing to the refinement of MEL tools and processes, ensuring that project data is effectively translated into actionable insights for decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day operational implementation of the approved AMELP, leading the routine tracking, verification, and analysis of performance indicators and targets. Key responsibilities include conducting data quality assessments, validating reported data through documentation review and field verification visits, and identifying data gaps or inconsistencies. The officer will also oversee data compilation, cleaning, and database management, ensuring compliance with established MEL standard operating procedures. Additionally, the MEL Officer will contribute to the preparation of donor reports, technical briefs, and presentations, while fostering a culture of data use and continuous learning within the project team. Regular field visits will be conducted to assess implementation progress and monitor performance against established indicators, ensuring alignment with national surveillance and laboratory reporting systems.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong knowledge of MEL concepts and frameworks, with demonstrated applied knowledge in public health, global health security, or infectious disease detection programs. Proficiency in data collection, management, and analysis is essential, along with advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with statistical analysis and data visualization software. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to synthesize and present data clearly are required. Effective communication skills in both Spanish and English are mandatory, with the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Statistics, Data Science, Health Informatics, Laboratory Sciences, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is desirable, along with relevant certifications in disease surveillance, laboratory systems, or health security.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 4 years of professional experience in monitoring, evaluation, surveillance systems, or data management for public health programs. Experience in primary data collection, conducting field visits, and data verification activities is required. Demonstrated experience in supporting disease surveillance or outbreak response programs is preferred, along with experience working on multi-partner or donor-funded projects and coordinating with government health institutions.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is required, with strong written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in English is also required, enabling effective communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and reports to the MEL Advisor. The role requires approximately 25% domestic travel. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.