Plan International is hiring a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist for the Resilient BARMM Project in Cotabato City. Project-based role until February 2028. Apply now.
Overview
Plan International Pilipinas is recruiting a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist for the Resilient BARMM Project, based in Cotabato City with fieldwork in Mamasapano, Upi, and Marantao.
This project-based role supports a climate resilience initiative in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), funded by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and Plan International Spain.
The position runs until February 2028 and plays a central role in ensuring evidence-based, gender-responsive, and inclusive project implementation.
Plan International Hiring Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist – Resilient BARMM Project | Apply 2026
About the Resilient BARMM Project
The Resilient BARMM initiative focuses on strengthening climate resilience through:
- Building local capacity
- Expanding sustainable and green livelihoods
- Institutionalizing inclusive and participatory climate governance
The project emphasizes youth-led and gender-sensitive climate action aligned with BARMM development priorities.
Position Details
- Job Title: Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist
- Location: Cotabato City, Philippines (with regular field visits)
- Project Sites: Mamasapano, Upi, and Marantao
- Contract Type: Project-based (until February 2028)
- Reports To: Project Manager
- Working Arrangement: Flexible working arrangements
- Compensation: Competitive local terms and conditions
Key Responsibilities
The MERL Specialist will provide technical leadership across monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning systems.
1. MERL Systems Design and Implementation
- Lead the design and execution of MERL tools and frameworks
- Develop and maintain results and accountability frameworks
- Ensure alignment with organizational standards and policies
2. Data Management and Quality Assurance
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date data in SAP and PMERL systems
- Ensure data validation and quality control
- Manage both quantitative and qualitative datasets
3. Research and Learning
- Design and conduct studies, assessments, and evaluations
- Document project outcomes and lessons learned
- Support adaptive management through evidence-based insights
4. Capacity Building and Accountability
- Build MERL capacities of staff and partner organizations
- Develop feedback and accountability mechanisms
- Support participatory and inclusive monitoring approaches
Required Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in:
- Social Science
- Statistics
- Social Work
- Community Development
- Or related field
Experience
- Minimum of four (4) years of MERL experience
- Experience in community-based or social development projects
- Strong skills in planning, data collection, analysis, and reporting
- Experience with participatory and gender-sensitive methodologies
Technical Knowledge
- Theory of Change
- Inclusive and gender-responsive MERL frameworks
- Data validation and quality assurance processes
- Quantitative and qualitative research methods
Competencies
- Strong analytical skills
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders
- Capacity to manage complex field-based monitoring systems
Why Consider This Role?
This opportunity allows professionals to:
- Contribute to climate resilience and peacebuilding in BARMM
- Support women and youth leadership in climate action
- Strengthen inclusive governance systems in Mindanao
- Work within a globally connected development organization
Safeguarding and Inclusion
Plan International is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. The organization enforces strict safeguarding standards and conducts pre-employment background checks in line with child protection policies and the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a permanent role?
No. This is a project-based position running until February 2028.
2. Is relocation required?
The role is based in Cotabato City with regular fieldwork in project sites. Applicants should be willing to work in these locations.
3. What type of experience is required?
At least four years of experience in monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning within community-based or development projects.
4. Does the role require technical MERL expertise?
Yes. Strong knowledge of participatory, gender-sensitive MERL approaches and data management systems is required.
5. Is experience in climate resilience necessary?
While not explicitly mandatory, experience in climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, or governance initiatives is highly relevant.
6. What kind of compensation is offered?
The organization offers a competitive compensation package under local terms and conditions.
Conclusion
The MERL Specialist role for the Resilient BARMM Project offers a meaningful opportunity to strengthen evidence-based climate resilience programming in Mindanao. Development professionals with strong MERL experience and a commitment to gender equality and community-driven solutions are encouraged to apply.
SEO Keywords
Plan International Philippines jobs 2026, MERL Specialist BARMM, monitoring and evaluation job Cotabato City, climate resilience jobs Philippines 2026, development project MERL role Mindanao, Plan International careers Philippines, gender responsive MERL specialist job, NGO monitoring evaluation job BARMM, community development job Cotabato 2026, apply Plan International MERL Specialist
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel
Related Opportunities on Reign Gigs
- UNDP 100% Remote Volunteer Assignments 2026 – Paid & Fully Funded
- Mercy Corps Global Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded Training + Monthly Stipend
- UNICEF Remote Internship 2026 – Paid International Opportunities
- Global Fellowships & Skills Training Programs 2025