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

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in more than 40 countries, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. The organization partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Mercy Corps has a mission to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. The organization has a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering a culture of trust and respect among its team members.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Specialist is responsible for leading the design and implementation of a comprehensive MEAL system for the PROPEL Africa program. This role is crucial in ensuring that data-driven decision-making is at the forefront of program management, supporting adaptive management practices, and meeting both donor and organizational standards. The MEAL Specialist will oversee the development of harmonized tools and processes, data systems, and integrated learning across four countries, working closely with the JA Africa MEAL focal point to provide leadership and supervision to country-level MEAL team members. The position requires a strong commitment to data-driven learning and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights, ensuring that the program effectively addresses the challenges of youth unemployment and underemployment in the targeted regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Specialist will lead the development of the program MEL Plan, which includes creating results frameworks, Indicator Performance Tracking Tables, data collection tools, and learning plans. They will ensure that MEAL tools and processes are harmonized across Mercy Corps and JA Africa, standardizing data collection methods and integrating data management systems. The role involves overseeing annual surveys and evaluations, ensuring compliance with donor and Mercy Corps best practices. The MEAL Specialist will manage data quality assurance processes and support country teams in implementing MEAL activities. Additionally, they will facilitate quarterly and annual reflection and learning sessions, collaborate with the JA Africa MEAL focal point for joint analysis and reporting, and produce evidence-based insights for strategic decision-making. The position also includes providing training and mentorship to country MEAL teams and partners, ensuring that community feedback mechanisms are functional and inclusive, and supporting safe data collection practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree preferred in social sciences, statistics, economics, or a related field. A minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience in MEAL is required, ideally within youth employment, market systems, or livelihoods programs. Familiarity with digital data systems such as CommCare and PowerBI is essential. Strong analytical and communication skills are necessary, and experience with multi-country programs is considered an advantage. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to data-driven learning and adaptive management, with the ability to collaborate effectively across organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree as a minimum requirement, with a preference for candidates holding a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, statistics, economics, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in the context of international development and youth employment.

Experience:
The position requires 5 to 7 years of relevant experience in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning, particularly in programs focused on youth employment, market systems, or livelihoods. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with digital data systems and managing multi-country programs, demonstrating their ability to handle complex data and provide actionable insights for program improvement.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the organization. Additional languages relevant to the regions of operation, such as French or local languages spoken in Uganda, Liberia, Senegal, and Tanzania, would be advantageous and could enhance communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kampala, Uganda, and requires up to 40% travel to support country programs, which may include travel to areas with limited amenities and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security challenges. The role is full-time and involves a commitment to ongoing learning, with team members expected to dedicate 5% of their time to activities that promote personal and professional growth. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.