Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning Specialist

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Aug 24, 2024

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Senior Level
Research & Development
Sustainability
Manila

Requirements

Education & Work Experience
Master's Degree - 5 year(s) experience OR Bachelor's Degree - 7 year(s) experience
Required Languages
English and Filipino
Required Skills and Experience
Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in development studies, social sciences, environmental science, business or public administration, or related fields, is required OR
A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) in the areas mentioned above in combination with additional 2 years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of Master's degree
Experience
Minimum of five (5) years (with master's degree) or seven (7) years (with bachelor's degree) of relevant professional experience in international development projects or programmes, preferably in the field of environmental science, circular economy, innovation, waste management, climate change including at least three years in managing Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) (preferably MERL) systems
Planning, design and implementation of quantitative and qualitative M&E (including MERL) systems in international development cooperations projects
Devising and delivering training in MERL development and implementation and/or facilitating learning-oriented analysis sessions of MERL data with multiple stakeholders
Knowledge of environmental management, circular economy, waste management issues and GEDSI concepts and approaches in MERL in LGU contexts
Knowledge of and experience with UN M&E systems is an asset
Language Requirement
Fluency in English and Filipino is required.

Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance and supervision of Project Manager, the MERL Specialist is responsible for the successful management and implementation of the project through regular monitoring of progress, identification of issues needing attention and corrective actions and undertaking baseline and evaluation studies.
The MERL Specialist has overall responsibility for the monitoring, evaluation, learning and results reporting activities for the project based on the final approved project work plan, to include:
Set up and maintain a database and dashboard for the management of the indicator framework and online archiving of MOVs/evidences.
In collaboration with data providers, identify data sourcing methods, develop monitoring tools, and agree on all aspects of budget, frequency, reporting, etc.
Lead the collection and documentation of baseline information and provide monitoring data to key project management processes.
Customize internal and external systems for team and partners to systematically and efficiently capture MERL data and information, including meta data and verifiable supporting documentation, in line with MERL requirements.
Guide project staff in the reporting of project activities and undertake quality assurance of project activities.
As required, support the development by each assembly of their own performance management/monitoring systems in accordance with their strategic and operational plans.
Lead the preparation of timely and quality corporate and regular reports to donor, Project Management Unit, overall GEPP programme and other partners as may be required.
In close coordination with the UNDP Communications Team and the Results and Quality Team, systematically document and disseminate project results and lessons.
Development of Project MERL Plan based on MERL Framework: Produce the project's MERL Plan in accordance with the project's MERL Framework.
Guide and coordinate the review and analysis of the project results table including:
Provide technical advice for the revision/updating of performance indicators.
Ensure realistic intermediate and end-of-project targets are defined and collected.
Identify sources of data, collection methods, who collects data, frequency, and cost of collection.
Establish a standardized MERL system with a common platform for use of team and partners in submitting/sharing data on activities and outputs.
Ensure gender equality, disability rights, and social inclusion (GEDSI) is integrated in the MERL framework and in results reporting.
Leading and coordinating project evaluations, including baseline survey, mid-term, and end-of-program evaluations to assess program impact and effectiveness, prepare terms of reference, and support contract management.
Contribute to the development of Annual Work Plans, set annual targets, update project risks, and prepare a detailed MERL budget and calendar of MERL activities.
Implementation of Project MERL framework:
Oversee and execute MERL activities as per the Annual Work Plan, with particular focus on results and impacts as well as on lesson learning.
Prepare a quarterly results tracker with key activities, indicators, baseline and targets under four result areas to obtain quarterly progress towards attainment of the annual results.
Undertake regular visits to the field to support implementation of MERL and to identify where adaptations might be needed.
Prepare draft TORs and evaluation questions for reviews and evaluations and support the monitoring and follow-through of evaluation recommendations, in accordance with UNDP guidance.
Ensure that project's results are well captured in the UNDP's corporate platforms: Integrated Work Plan, ROAR, Annual Business Plan, Strategic Plan reporting, Quantum Results Module, Transparency Dashboard, etc.
Facilitate Capacity Development:
Provide advice, support and recommend assistance to project management in regard to monitoring and evaluation, performance management/monitoring and results reporting.
Organize and provide training in MERL for project and counterpart staff and primary stakeholders with a view to developing local MERL capacity.
Recommend and develop strategies to measure the performance of the Project Team and support them to implement mechanisms for the collection verification of performance data.
Lesson Learning:
Work with the Project Manager and the Deputy Project Manager, support the design and implementation of a system to identify, analyze, document and disseminate lessons learned.
Document lesson learned by the project with a focus on result, impact and outcomes, and present these at least every 6 months.
In coordination with the Communications Officer, collect case studies to illustrate challenges, progress and innovation in the project’s work with the Project Team. These should include a GEDSI perspective.

FAQs

What is the job title for this position?

The job title is Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning Specialist.

Where is the job located?

The job is located in Manila, Philippines.

What is the application deadline for this job position?

The application deadline is 09/07/2024, 10:59 PM.

What type of contract is offered for this position?

The position offers a National Personnel Service Agreement.

What is the contract duration for this role?

The contract duration is 1 year.

What is the required education for this position?

A Master's Degree with 5 years of experience or a Bachelor's Degree with 7 years of experience is required for this position.

What languages are required for this position?

Fluency in English and Filipino is required.

Is there an emphasis on diversity in the workplace?

Yes, the organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion as core principles and encourages applications from marginalized or excluded populations.

What are some key responsibilities of the MERL Specialist?

Key responsibilities include managing monitoring, evaluation, learning, and reporting activities for the project, developing and implementing MERL plans, and providing guidance on gender equality and disability rights within the MERL framework.

Who will the MERL Specialist work with?

The MERL Specialist will work with the Project Manager, Deputy Project Manager, project team, consultants, LGU Hub Coordinators, and other partners such as the EU, GIZ, and various civil society and private sector organizations.

Will travel be required for this position?

Yes, the position may require travel for meetings, consultations, and field missions, adhering to the rules and regulations in the Philippines.

What competencies are sought in applicants for this position?

The position seeks competencies such as achieving results, innovative thinking, continuous learning, adaptability, determination, partnership engagement, and enabling diversity and inclusion.

What areas of expertise is prior experience preferred in?

Experience is preferred in international development projects, particularly in environmental science, circular economy, innovation, waste management, and climate change, along with managing Monitoring and Evaluation systems.

Are there training opportunities associated with this position?

Yes, the MERL Specialist will be responsible for organizing and providing training in MERL for project and counterpart staff.

Will UNDP candidates undergo background checks?

Yes, all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Is there any guidance on the application process?

Yes, applicants are advised to carefully follow the application instructions provided in the job announcement and to be aware that UNDP does not charge any fees for the application process.

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