Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving 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 workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to fostering sustainable change through evidence-based practices and partnerships.

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, which includes routine data collection, reporting, and conducting data quality checks. The MEL Officer will track indicators and document learning for adaptive management, ensuring that the project meets its objectives effectively. Additionally, the officer will provide guidance on MEL practices to staff and partners, contribute to MEL sections of project documents, and assist in the development and delivery of MEL training sessions. The role also involves preparing data summaries and visualizations, as well as providing administrative support to core MEL and project operations, making it integral to the success of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Officer will assist in providing technical support for the development and dissemination of tools, materials, reports, and interventions for the project. They will ensure quality control and quality assurance, conduct literature searches on evolving issues, 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, and respond to inquiries from internal and external staff. 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 also 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 the assigned areas. Strong communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, along with excellent organizational and analytical skills. The ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare reports is crucial, as is the capability to solve problems and implement corrective actions as needed. Fluency in English is mandatory.

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 health-related projects.

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

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the MEL Officer will be required to communicate effectively with clients and staff. While English is the primary language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and may require domestic travel up to 25%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is PGK 41,000 - 60,000 for annual basic salary. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and requires all personnel to adhere to its code of conduct. Employment offers will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks.