Compliance and Operational Assurance Specialist

The Opportunity We invite applications from dynamic and driven Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) professionals to spearhead the execution of MEL initiatives within PEAS Zambia’s Eastern Province portfolio, reporting to the Senior MEL Officer. The ideal candidate will oversee the timely collection, quality assurance, analysis, and reporting of data, while maintaining up-to-date spreadsheets, dashboards, and platforms, and supporting learning and research initiatives within the Eastern Province program. Collaborating closely with Zambia and Global MEL colleagues, program teams, governmental stakeholders, and external researchers and evaluators, the candidate will ensure that evidence is precise, delivered promptly, and leveraged to enhance program implementation. We seek an individual who excels in both technical MEL competencies and relationship management. The successful applicant will have a proven track record in handling large datasets, designing digital data collection tools, conducting in-depth analysis, producing polished reports, and converting findings into practical, actionable insights. The incumbent is tasked with overseeing Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) initiatives to ensure effective data collection, analysis, and utilization. This role involves designing and implementing robust MEL frameworks, establishing clear indicators, and systematically tracking progress against set objectives. Additionally, the position requires conducting thorough evaluations to assess program effectiveness, identifying key lessons learned, and disseminating findings to inform strategic decision-making. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data management tools are essential for this role. Oversee the MEL Assistant’s work to guarantee precise data collection, thorough cleaning, and timely reporting for all projects in the Eastern Province while ensuring adherence to established standards; additionally, offer guidance and conduct quality assurance checks on the MEL Assistant’s duties. Maintain and update critical data spreadsheets, dashboards, and platforms with precision and punctuality, adhering to established reporting cycles, data standards, and version-control protocols. Develop and implement digital surveys through Comm Care and KoboToolbox to enhance organization-wide data collection processes. Design, construct, and oversee Power BI dashboards tailored for operations and programs to deliver actionable insights that drive both programmatic and strategic decision-making processes. Assist in the creation and ongoing refinement of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) frameworks, indicators, and tools to ensure alignment with project objectives and donor mandates for both programmatic and operational initiatives. Evaluate both qualitative and quantitative data to measure program effectiveness and results, driving ongoing enhancements and refinements. Perform internal assessments at baseline, midline, and Edline stages while systematically recording lessons learned to facilitate adaptive programming efforts. Standardize data cleaning procedures and uphold adherence to data security and quality standards. Facilitate the adoption of a data-driven approach by embedding Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) into strategic planning, operational execution, and results assessment phases to enhance decision-making and accountability. Collaborate effectively with the PEAS Global MEL team as well as external researchers and evaluators to design and conduct program evaluations and research. This involves reviewing tools, obtaining necessary permissions and ensuring ethical compliance, determining sampling strategies, coordinating fieldwork, maintaining data quality, providing relevant data, and implementing follow-up actions based on findings. Provide training to personnel and field teams on MEL tools, data collection protocols, and analytical methodologies to enhance organizational MEL capabilities. Conduct learning sessions and data review meetings to convert insights into practical program enhancements. Compile performance and evaluation reports according to established cycles, ensuring the delivery of precise data, thorough analysis, and comprehensive narrative contributions to donor reports as needed. Adhere strictly to reporting deadlines and comply with agreed indicator definitions. Who we are looking for We are in search of a meticulously organized, analytical, and proactive professional with a strong commitment to enhancing education through data-driven insights and continuous learning. The ideal candidate will demonstrate robust proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, maintain exceptional precision in their work, and excel in conveying intricate findings in an accessible manner to a wide range of stakeholders. In this role, candidates will excel within a fast-paced setting, adeptly balancing competing priorities while upholding a strong dedication to PEAS’ mission of expanding educational access for youth throughout Zambia. Essential Criteria A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, or a closely related quantitative or research-focused discipline. Applicants with degrees in unrelated fields must possess either a relevant postgraduate qualification or a professional certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics, Data Analysis, Data Science, Research Methods, or another quantitative subject. A minimum of three years of professional experience in monitoring, evaluation, research, or learning roles is required. Proven expertise in gathering, refining, standardizing, and overseeing both quantitative and qualitative datasets, with a strong emphasis on maintaining high data integrity. Advanced Excel proficiency is required, encompassing formula-driven analysis, data cleansing, validation, reconciliation, and the management of extensive datasets. Proven expertise in examining quantitative and qualitative data to address monitoring, research, or evaluation inquiries, encompassing the selection of suitable methodologies, interpretation of findings and constraints, and articulation of results into concise conclusions and practical recommendations. Experienced in designing, building, and sustaining Power BI dashboards, with expertise in data preparation, refresh procedures, quality assurance, and creating user-centric visualizations. Proficiency with digital data-collection platforms like KoboToolbox, Comm Care, or comparable systems is required. Strong proficiency in creating analytical reports and visualizing data, with the capacity to effectively convey intricate quantitative and qualitative insights to stakeholders who may not have a technical background. Accumulated experience in managing and coordinating data collection initiatives conducted in the field. Demonstrated expertise in project management and organizational capabilities is essential. Fluent proficiency in both spoken and written English is required. Proficient knowledge of safeguarding principles and ethical research methodologies is required. Proven capability in meeting regular reporting deadlines, ensuring precise record-keeping, and executing responsibilities autonomously with minimal oversight. Desirable Criteria – These prerequisites are not mandatory for your application; nevertheless, if you possess any of these preferred qualifications or experiences, we strongly recommend that you emphasize them in your submission. Candidates should possess prior experience within the field of education. Proven expertise in advanced statistical analysis, encompassing sampling techniques, inferential statistics, and result interpretation, supported by proficiency in statistical software such as State, R, SPSS, or Python. Professional Rewrite: The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of contributing data, analysis, or narrative content to donor reports and utilizing donor indicator frameworks. Additionally, they will bring experience in supporting or conducting research and evaluations, with a focus on effective collaboration with external researchers or evaluators. Furthermore, the role requires demonstrated leadership in supervising field teams, research assistants, or Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) staff. Seasoned professionals with a proven track record in collaborating with educational institutions—including schools, districts, and provincial or national education authorities in Zambia—are encouraged to apply. Recruitment Process: Assessment stages typically encompass several key components, which may include: 1. Application review. 2. Technical assessment. 3. Competency-based interview. 4. Reference checks. Working Arrangements: This position will be primarily located in Kate, Eastern Province, with frequent travel to various schools and program sites throughout the region. Hybrid working arrangements may be explored if deemed operationally practical. Working at PEAS Regardless of the specific position, team dynamics, situation, or geographic location, our collective efforts are consistently driven by our core values, fostered by intrinsic motivation and boundless energy. Make a meaningful impact You will play a key role in generating evidence and fostering learning to enhance school performance and elevate educational outcomes for thousands of learners across Zambia. Join our dynamic team of professionals, working together in a cooperative and innovative environment to achieve shared goals and deliver exceptional results. – Become part of a collaborative and mission-focused team that prioritizes growth, creativity, innovation, responsibility, and ongoing advancement. Opportunities for professional growth As part of your role, you will collaborate across various programs and departments, expanding your expertise and gaining valuable experience while fostering organizational growth and collective learning. A values-driven organization Join an organization dedicated to upholding integrity, safeguarding measures, fostering inclusion, and creating sustainable change through education.

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