Research and Evaluation Opportunity: MERL Officer Position with Plan International’s SAFE ONLINE Project

05/03/2024

3 minutes read

Research and Evaluation Opportunity: MERL Officer Position with Plan International’s SAFE ONLINE Project

Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning Officer (SAFE Online Project) at Plan International

Introduction: Plan International, an independent development and humanitarian organization, is committed to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls globally. With over 85 years of experience, Plan International works tirelessly to address the root causes of poverty, violence, exclusion, and discrimination, particularly affecting girls. As part of its ongoing efforts, Plan International is implementing the Systems Approach for Ensuring Online Safety and Empowerment of Children and Young People (SAFE ONLINE) project, aimed at protecting children and young people from online sexual exploitation and violence.

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To support this initiative, Plan International is seeking qualified professionals to fill the position of Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Officer. This paper provides a detailed overview of the role, responsibilities, qualifications, and opportunities associated with this position.

Background on Plan International: Plan International is dedicated to promoting justice, security, and human rights for all children, from birth until they reach adulthood. With a focus on empowering children and preparing them to respond to crises and adversity, Plan International works collaboratively with children, young people, supporters, and partners to drive positive change at local, national, and global levels.

Through its presence in more than 80 countries, Plan International builds powerful partnerships to address the complex challenges facing children and advocates for policies and practices that support their rights and well-being.

Overview of the Position: The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of the SAFE ONLINE project in Makati City, Philippines. Reporting to the Project Manager, the MERL Officer will be responsible for ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of project activities, tracking project accomplishments, and consolidating feedback from stakeholders.

Additionally, the MERL Officer will lead various research initiatives, facilitate assessments and evaluations, and contribute to the documentation and sharing of best practices and lessons learned. This position offers a unique opportunity for a dedicated professional to make a meaningful impact in safeguarding children and young people from online threats.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning Officer (SAFE Online Project) at Plan International

Research and Evaluation Opportunity: MERL Officer Position with Plan International’s SAFE ONLINE Project

Responsibilities of the MERL Officer: The MERL Officer will be responsible for a range of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

Implementing the project’s monitoring and evaluation plan in accordance with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework.
Ensuring the operational readiness and optimization of database systems for analyzing and reporting project information.

Tracking and monitoring project accomplishments and consolidating feedback from stakeholders.
Validating and consolidating project reports from the project’s implementing partner.
Facilitating school and community assessments, monitoring, and evaluations to inform planning and decision-making.

Leading the conduct of mid-term and end-line studies in communities to assess project impact and effectiveness.
Submitting required reports on the grant-funded project in a timely manner.
Documenting and sharing best practices and lessons learned from project implementation.

Developing child-friendly project briefs, flyers, and update newsletters to communicate project activities and outcomes effectively.

Qualifications and Skills Required: To be successful in the role of MERL Officer, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Statistics, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field.

Minimum of five years of development work experience, with at least three years of experience in conducting research, planning, developing, and managing community development projects.
Relevant training in project management, participatory research, and monitoring and evaluation methods.
Previous work experience in a similar project or in non-governmental organizations is an advantage.

Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds.
Proficiency in standard software applications, including Microsoft Office suite.
Filipino nationality and residency in the Philippines are required.

Additional Information: The position of MERL Officer is project-based until January 2025 and is based in Makati City, Metro Manila. The successful candidate will report to the Project Manager and will be part of an office-based team with flexible working arrangements. Plan International offers a competitive compensation package, including local terms and conditions.

Plan International is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and strives to create a workplace environment that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. The organization promotes racial justice, gender equality, girls’ rights, and inclusion in all aspects of its work.

Conclusion: The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning Officer position at Plan International presents an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about child rights and online safety. By joining the SAFE ONLINE project, the MERL Officer will contribute to the empowerment and protection of children and young people against online sexual exploitation and violence.

Through effective monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning initiatives, the MERL Officer will play a vital role in ensuring the success and impact of the project. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and become part of Plan International’s mission to create a just world where all children can thrive and fulfill their potential.