MEAL Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
Relief International (RI) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to partnering with communities affected by conflict, climate change, and disasters. Established with a mission to save lives, build resilience, and promote long-term health and wellbeing, RI employs over 7,000 staff and local volunteers. The organization operates in 15 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, focusing on Health and Nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Education, and Livelihoods programming. RI emphasizes the importance of evidence-based, conflict-sensitive, and climate-smart local programming, ensuring that it reaches those most in need. The organization is an alliance of four entities: Relief International, Inc., Relief International-France, Relief International-UK, and Relief International-Europe, all working under a unified leadership team to achieve their shared mission.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) activities at the field level. Reporting directly to the MEAL Senior Officer or MEAL Officer, the Assistant is tasked with routine data collection, verification of project activities, and facilitating beneficiary feedback and accountability processes. This position is vital for ensuring accurate and timely field data gathering and reporting, which informs program quality and accountability to affected populations. The MEAL Assistant will engage with communities to gather insights and feedback, ensuring that the programs are responsive to the needs of the beneficiaries. The role requires a proactive approach to data collection and a commitment to upholding the values of the organization in all interactions with community members.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Assistant's responsibilities include conducting quantitative and qualitative data collection through various methods such as Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM), exit interviews, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). This data collection may utilize digital tools like Kobo or Power Apps, or traditional paper-based forms, adhering to approved methodologies. The Assistant will also perform on-site spot checks to verify the accuracy and quality of activities and services in accordance with RI standards. Regular field monitoring visits to protection and health centers will be conducted, and monitoring checklist forms will be completed. The role involves receiving and documenting feedback and complaints from beneficiaries through multiple channels, ensuring that cases are referred to the appropriate focal points and that timely feedback is provided to the communities. The Assistant will support awareness sessions and group discussions to explain accountability mechanisms and gather feedback. Additionally, logistical and technical support will be provided during surveys and other MEAL-related field activities. The Assistant is expected to submit daily or weekly updates to the MEAL Officer regarding data collection progress, challenges faced, and field observations. Collaboration with the program team is essential for conducting joint assessments and evaluations, and the Assistant will assist in initial needs assessments, providing qualitative observations from the field. The role also requires adherence to RI's code of conduct and safeguarding policies, ensuring that all interactions promote respect, inclusivity, and professionalism.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of one to two years of experience in a similar role. Previous experience in data collection using digital tools such as Kobo, ODK, ONA, or CommCare, as well as paper forms, is essential. A basic understanding of monitoring and evaluation practices, including surveys, FGDs, KIIs, and data entry, is required. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are necessary to engage respectfully with communities. Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and internet usage is expected. Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of English. A commitment to the values of RI, safeguarding, and accountability principles is crucial for all candidates.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field, which provides the foundational knowledge necessary for the role. This degree should ideally be in areas related to social sciences, public health, or a similar discipline that equips the candidate with the skills needed for effective data collection and community engagement.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least one to two years of relevant experience in the field of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL). This experience should include practical involvement in data collection processes, familiarity with digital tools for data management, and an understanding of the humanitarian context in which the organization operates. Previous experience with humanitarian or development organizations is highly desirable, particularly in sectors such as Health, Protection, or Nutrition.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is a mandatory requirement for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with beneficiaries and community members. A working knowledge of English is also required, as it facilitates reporting and collaboration with international teams. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The MEAL Assistant position is a full-time role based in Idlib, Syria. The closing date for applications is August 24, 2026, although the position may be filled before this deadline. As a humanitarian organization, Relief International is committed to safeguarding all individuals encountered through its work, adhering to core humanitarian principles and ensuring that all staff and volunteers uphold the values and behaviors outlined in the Code of Conduct. Recruitment for this role will include a criminal records self-declaration, references, and other pre-employment checks, which may encompass police and qualifications verification.