MEAL Officer

Job title : MEAL Officer

Job Summary

The MEAL Officer is responsible for leading the design, implementation, and oversight of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems for the Basque project. Working closely with project and sector teams, the role ensures that all interventions are evidence-based, results-driven, and aligned with donor requirements. The MEAL Officer will coordinate data collection, analysis, visualization, and reporting activities, while supporting learning, accountability, and adaptive program management. The role also includes capacity building for staff, quality assurance for reporting products, and engagement in coordination platforms to uphold sectoral best practices and compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities of the position

Role/Mission

• Develop, implement, and assess comprehensive MEAL systems and frameworks for the project in collaboration with program staff and in line with donor requirements.
• Design SMART logical frameworks, monitoring and evaluation plans, and results measurement matrices to support evidence-based planning during annual and semi-annual reviews.
• Contribute to the development of annual work plans, ensuring the integration of M&E activities and alignment with project targets and performance indicators.
• Maintain and update indicator tracking tools, project databases, and dashboards; develop new tools as necessary to demonstrate project performance and impact.
• Coordinate baseline, midline, endline evaluations, and routine data collection using tools such as ODK/Kobo; ensure timely data compilation and quality assurance.
• Conduct data validation, routine data quality assessments (RDQAs), and field monitoring visits to verify accuracy and completeness of reported data.
• Lead data analysis and the production of visual summaries including infographics; manage a data corner for quarterly display of MEAL outputs.
• Document lessons learned, success stories, and best practices to inform adaptive learning and program improvement.
• Edit and format project content for reports and deliverables to ensure consistency, professionalism, and compliance with internal and donor standards.
• Organize and facilitate learning workshops, mid-term reviews, and regular reflection sessions with staff and partners to promote a learning culture.
• Ensure strong beneficiary accountability mechanisms, including feedback and complaints systems, in line with JRS standards and donor expectations.
• Prepare and update project-level Issues and Risk Logs and recommend mitigation actions to the Project Director and program team.
• Provide technical support and capacity building to staff and partners on MEAL systems, tools, data-based decision-making, and compliance processes.
• Participate actively in sectoral coordination meetings and MEAL working groups at local and national levels.
• Promote safeguarding and PSEA standards across all MEAL processes and interactions with project stakeholders.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Project Director or Head of Programs.

Qualification 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Statistics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in MEAL roles, preferably in humanitarian settings.
• Strong knowledge of M&E tools, SPSS/Excel/NVivo, and data visualization platforms.
• Experience with feedback and accountability systems and donor reporting standards.
• Excellent facilitation, coordination, and analytical skills.
• Fluency in English and at least one local language.

Skills and competencies

• Strong team collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with learners, community members, and colleagues.
• Good understanding of humanitarian principles, child safeguarding, and protection standards.
• Advanced proficiency in data collection, documentation, and reporting
• Adaptability and willingness to work in challenging and changing environments.
• Organized, reliable, and able to meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for local dynamics in program implementation.
• Proficiency in English and local language is an asset.
• Advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office and digital data tools (e.g., Kobo, ODK), where relevant.

Equal Opportunity, Safeguarding & Anti-Fraud Notice

• Equal Opportunity & Diversity: Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Zero Tolerance for Fraud & Corruption: JRS does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, shortlisting, interviewing, processing, training, or any other fees).
• Strict Anti-Bribery Policy: JRS maintains a zero-tolerance policy against fraud, bribery, and financial exploitation. Money or gifts of any kind are strictly prohibited and are not accepted at any phase of hiring.