Qualitative Data Collection Implementer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Qualitative Data Collection Implementer
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is IFPRI (International Food Policy Research Institute), which is dedicated to providing research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of experts in agriculture, nutrition, and economics. The organization focuses on improving food systems and enhancing the livelihoods of vulnerable populations through innovative research and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The position of Qualitative Data Collection Implementer involves coordinating and conducting qualitative data collection among farming households and communities in selected counties in Kenya, specifically Nyandarua and Nakuru. The role is crucial in gathering qualitative insights that complement quantitative data for the CGIAR Initiative 'Digital Innovation.' The implementer will work closely with IFPRI and the Digital Innovation team to finalize data collection protocols, conduct interviews and focus groups, and ensure that the data collected is accurate and comprehensive. The position requires a strong understanding of the local agricultural context and the ability to engage effectively with farmers and Farmer Service Centers (FSCs). The implementer will also be responsible for training facilitators, obtaining local ethics clearance, and managing the logistics of the data collection process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected firm will be responsible for several key tasks, including:

• Collaborating with IFPRI and the Digital Innovation team to finalize and pilot data collection protocols in the field.
• Translating interview and focus group protocols into local languages as necessary.
• Obtaining local ethics clearance and research permits.
• Organizing the selection, hiring, and payment of facilitators experienced in qualitative data collection, ensuring gender balance among facilitators.
• Providing training to facilitators and note-takers on conducting interviews and focus groups, including pre-testing protocols.
• Developing a field schedule for data collection teams and providing regular updates during the fieldwork.
• Participating in weekly meetings with IFPRI throughout the data collection process.
• Recording interviews and focus groups (with participant consent), transcribing them verbatim, and translating them into English.
• Delivering transcripts to IFPRI in Word format and responding to queries related to data analysis and translation. 1
• Providing a brief report covering the qualitative survey fieldwork and any implementation issues encountered.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in conducting qualitative data collection in Kenya within the past five years. They should have expertise in participatory tools and methods, such as semi-structured focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. A strong understanding of the local context and languages in the target areas is essential, along with experience in building trust and good relations with village leaders and communities. Strong program management skills are required, as well as experience in coordinating field teams and managing deliverables. Additionally, candidates should have experience obtaining local ethics review and permits.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social sciences, agricultural studies, or a related field is likely preferred to ensure a solid understanding of the agricultural context and qualitative research methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of five years of demonstrated experience in conducting qualitative data collection, particularly in the agricultural sector in Kenya. Experience with participatory research methods and a proven track record of managing field teams and logistics is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in local languages relevant to the target areas is highly desirable to facilitate effective communication during interviews and focus groups.

Additional Notes:
The period of performance for this position is from September 2024 to January 202

• The role is open only to firms, and interested applicants must submit a proposal outlining their approach, human resources, timing, and costs, along with a CV/resume detailing previous related experience. The applicant should be a local survey firm capable of managing the contract with IFPRI and sourcing the necessary human resources. It is important to note that only selected applicants will be contacted, as the organization is unable to respond to every applicant individually.