Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a global conservation organization founded in 1961, dedicated to helping people and nature thrive. With operations in over 100 countries, WWF partners with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and advance sustainable solutions. The organization is grounded in science and driven by collaboration, focusing on conserving biodiversity, supporting resilient communities, and addressing climate change. WWF has nearly 1 million members in the United States and more than 5 million globally, reflecting its extensive reach and commitment to environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Officer will play a crucial role in the Heart of Conservation Initiative (HCI), a transformative 5-year global project aimed at empowering Indigenous Peoples and local communities in their stewardship of lands and biodiversity. This position involves monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities that track and report on project implementation, performance, and results. The MEL Officer will work closely with the Project Manager and various partners to ensure that the project aligns with both Indigenous community priorities and GEF core indicator requirements. The role requires a strong focus on data collection and analysis, adapting management strategies based on emerging learning needs, and supporting the development of a learning agenda that reflects the unique contexts of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The MEL Officer will also assist in preparing technical reports and collaborate with communications teams to highlight project impacts and lessons learned.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Officer's responsibilities include designing methodologies for data collection, monitoring the application of M&E plans, analyzing data for reliability and precision, and advising on solutions as needed. They will deliver a Results Framework and Work Plan Tracking Report annually, co-develop a learning agenda with Indigenous partners, and create culturally appropriate learning methods. The officer will assist in writing project progress reports, lead annual reflection workshops, and collaborate with various officers to organize learning exchanges. They will also manage a live database for project monitoring and evaluation data, troubleshoot challenges with partners, and contribute to external evaluation planning. The role may involve international travel approximately quarterly and requires flexibility to adapt to the project's evolving needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects and possess strong analytical skills. A Bachelor's degree in natural or social science, environmental management, program evaluation, or a related field is required, with an advanced degree preferred. At least 7 years of relevant work experience is necessary, with a Master's degree substituting for 2 years of experience. A minimum of 3 years must be in designing and implementing M&E systems for development or conservation projects. Experience working with Indigenous Peoples and local communities is essential, along with strong analytical skills and expertise in data analysis and reporting. Familiarity with conservation management standards and traditional ecological knowledge is preferred.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as natural or social science, environmental management, program evaluation, or international development. An advanced degree is preferred and can enhance a candidate's qualifications. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in the principles of conservation, project management, and community engagement, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant work experience, with a significant portion of that time spent in roles focused on monitoring and evaluation within development or conservation contexts. Experience in supporting Indigenous communities and organizations is crucial, as is a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multi-stakeholder environments. International field experience, particularly in developing countries, is highly valued, especially if it involves monitoring and evaluation roles.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, with strong writing skills being essential. Proficiency in Spanish, French, and/or Portuguese is highly preferred, as these languages can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners involved in the project. The ability to communicate effectively across cultures and languages is a significant asset in this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, but may also be available in Brazil or Kenya. Applicants for positions in Brazil or Kenya must be nationals currently based and legally authorized to work in those countries, as employment visa sponsorship is not provided. For Cambodia, nationals from South and Southeast Asian countries willing to relocate may apply, with potential support for visa sponsorship and relocation costs. The role is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship, and applicants must be legally authorized to work in the job's location. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.