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Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO)

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About Us:

Bixal is a consulting company based in Fairfax, VA, working alongside governments and organizations to help them deliver better services and experiences to the communities they serve. Using evidence-based knowledge and technology, Bixal empowers clients to deliver on their missions more effectively by fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.


Bixal is a consulting company based in Fairfax, VA, working alongside governments and organizations to help them deliver better services and experiences to the communities they serve. Using evidence-based knowledge and technology, Bixal empowers clients to deliver on their missions more effectively by fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement. 

 

Bixal is seeking a Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) for the USAID/Uganda Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (UMEL) Activity. This program supports USAID/Uganda and its partners by strengthening MEL processes, conducting high-quality evaluations, knowledge-sharing, and adaptive management to improve programmatic decision-making in the country.


What will you do?
  • The Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) will support the Director of Performance Management with the collection of primary performance data on CDCS outcome indicators; compiling contextual data; validating and analyzing performance data; developing monitoring tools; providing technical support for data quality assessments; training and mentoring A/CORs and IPs' MEL staff on performance reporting systems; and creating data visualizations for effective learning by the Mission and IPs. They will serve as the primary point of contact (POC) to the Democracy, Rights, and Governance, and Humanitarian Assistance Offices (DRG-HATO). The Senior MEL Specialist will further serve as a thought partner to their respective technical office. Additionally, they will proactively integrate USAID's learning cycle processes into a cohesive project management approach, leading toward collaboration, learning, and adaptation (CLA) for improved development results.


Responsiblities
  • Develop and continuously review the Performance Indicator Reference Sheets (PIRS) for DRG-HATO indicators.
  • Collect primary performance data on selected health CDCS outcome indicators that implementing partners may not have the capacity to collect.
  • Identify and compile relevant contextual data to facilitate DRG-HATO’s understanding of its contribution to wider national and agency development priorities.
  • Validate and analyze periodic performance data of DRG-HATO performance indicators reported by USAID/Uganda implementing partners in a timely manner.
  • Develop high-quality, inclusive, and cost-effective monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) tools and processes for DRG-HATO and its implementing partners.
  • Provide technical support to A/CORs and IP MEL staff to implement data quality assessments for a targeted number of selected implementing partners.
  • Work with the Data Analyst to develop the capacity of newly onboarded implementing partners to utilize the agency-wide performance reporting system, Development Information Solutions (DIS).
  • Collaborate with the Senior Capacity Building Specialist to develop the capacity of Agreement and Contracting Officers’ Representatives (A/CORs) and IP MEL Specialists to effectively perform their designated MEL functions.
  • Work with the Senior GIS and Visualization Specialist to develop various data visualizations using DIS and other relevant data sources, such as UN OCHA, to facilitate learning by the Mission and implementing partners.
  • Provide technical direction to project teams to ensure the technical quality of MEL processes and deliverables.
  • Support technical initiatives to systematize quality across the organization.
  • Support the development and delivery of MEL training and contribute to Bixal’s MEL Community of Practice.
  • Serve as an initial point of contact and escalation for project issues, including responding to clients, resolving issues, and solving problems under the guidance of the Director of Performance Management.
  • Supervise junior-level team members, providing MEL Officers/Data Analysts with feedback and support.
  • Support the business development process, including drafting proposal responses, updating corporate capability statements, and arranging discussions with partners.
  • Assist different teams in recruiting and hiring consultants and/or subject matter experts, including screening candidates, writing terms of reference, and processing purchase orders/billing.
  • Contribute to business development and thought leadership through content creation, industry presentations, and identifying growth opportunities in federal sector OD and talent management.
  • Perform other duties as required.


Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in relevant field, plus 10 years of related experience; or Master’s Degree, plus 5 years of related experience.
  • Written and spoken fluency in English.
  • Understanding of USAID development programming.
  • Understanding of development partners and Uganda government development landscape, key stakeholders, and potential USAID partners within respective health focus areas.
  • Extensive knowledge of USAID project management processes and overall program cycle, including monitoring, evaluation, and learning practices and policy.
  • Clear communication skills in both written and oral forms. additional fluency in any of Uganda’s local languages preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and excellent time management skills. Ingenuity, ability to generate ideas for a variety of activities, propose new courses of action, and suggest appropriate, mitigated risks.
  • Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to understand and respond to project management needs and develop trust.
  • Synthesis skills, including the ability to gather information from disparate sources, connect the dots to form a coherent picture of project progress and external circumstances, and tell a compelling story with evidence.
  • Proactive approach, with the ability to take on new tasks with little direction, chart a course of action, and advise clients, colleagues, and supervisors on possible opportunities and challenges.
  • Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work with colleagues and partners across sectors and outside traditional functional expertise to catalyze activity toward shared objectives.


Nice to have
  • Additional fluency in any of Uganda’s local languages preferred.


Please note that candidates selected may undergo a background investigation and, if applicable, meet eligibility requirements for suitability.


Bixal is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization and beyond.

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What You Should Know About Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO), Bixal

At Bixal, we are on the lookout for a passionate and skilled Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) to join our team in beautiful Kampala. As a key player in the USAID/Uganda Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Activity, you’ll be diving deep into the world of data collection and analysis to help shape meaningful improvements in programmatic decision-making. Your days will be filled with exciting tasks such as developing powerful monitoring tools, providing guidance on data quality, and making sense of complex data for effective learning across our mission and implementing partners. You'll collaborate closely with various teams to foster a culture of continuous learning that ensures our clients achieve their goals. With your expertise, you'll guide the Democracy, Rights, and Governance, and Humanitarian Assistance Offices on leveraging performance indicators and contextual data. Not only will you be validating and analyzing performance data to optimize our processes, but you’ll also provide training and support to partners and stakeholders. Here at Bixal, we believe in the power of teamwork and the impact of good governance, and we want you to be part of that journey. So if you have a strong background in evaluation and a knack for relationship-building, we can’t wait to see how you’ll contribute your knowledge in an engaging environment that values innovation and inclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) Role at Bixal
What are the primary responsibilities of the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) at Bixal?

The Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) at Bixal is responsible for collecting primary performance data on outcome indicators, validating and analyzing performance data, developing monitoring tools, and providing technical support for data quality assessments. They also train implementers, create data visualizations, and serve as a point of contact for Democracy, Rights, and Governance offices, ensuring effective programmatic decision-making across all activities.

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What qualifications are needed for the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) position at Bixal?

Applicants for the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) position at Bixal should possess a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field with ten years of related experience, or a Master’s Degree with five years of experience. Strong knowledge of USAID project management processes, effective communication skills, and the ability to work independently are also essential for this role.

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How does the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) contribute to program improvement at Bixal?

The Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) plays a crucial role in improving programs at Bixal by developing high-quality monitoring tools, validating performance data, and facilitating learning through effective data visualization. Their expertise supports adaptive management, allows for responsive decision-making, and ultimately contributes to the success of Bixal’s initiatives within the USAID framework.

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What skills are essential for the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) at Bixal?

Essential skills for the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO) at Bixal include strong relationship-building capabilities, excellent analytical and synthesizing skills, effective communication in English and ideally in local languages, and a proactive approach to project management. The ability to collaborate with diverse teams and manage multiple tasks independently is also vital.

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What opportunities for professional development does Bixal offer to the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO)?

Bixal is committed to fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement, which extends to the Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO). Opportunities for professional development include participation in training, access to a MEL Community of Practice, involvement in business development initiatives, and the chance to lead workshops and mentoring sessions to enhance skills and knowledge across the organization.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist (DRG-HATO)
Can you describe your experience with USAID project management processes as a Senior MEL Specialist?

To effectively respond, draw from specific projects you've been involved in. Highlight your understanding of USAID’s program cycles and outline how you have contributed to the MEL processes by collecting, validating, and analyzing data relevant to these projects.

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How do you ensure data quality in your MEL activities?

Discuss your approach to performing data quality assessments and the tools or methods you implement to monitor data quality effectively. Include examples of training sessions or workshops you have conducted to instill this practice among team members or implementing partners.

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How do you handle conflicting priorities in monitoring and evaluation tasks?

Illustrate your time management skills by sharing a specific instance. Explain how you prioritize tasks based on project timelines, stakeholder needs, and potential impacts on outcomes, while remaining flexible to accommodate urgent needs.

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What strategies do you use for effective collaboration with diverse teams?

Mention practical strategies such as setting clear communication channels, establishing common goals, and encouraging open feedback. Emphasize any successful collaborations that led to enhanced MEL performance and learning.

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Can you provide an example of a successful MEL tool you have developed?

Describe a specific MEL tool you created, including its purpose, how it was implemented, and the positive outcomes it achieved. Reference feedback from team members or program participants to support your success narrative.

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How do you stay updated on trends in monitoring and evaluation?

Share your approach to continuous learning, such as attending conferences, reading industry publications, and networking within MEL communities. Mention any relevant certifications or courses you've completed to enhance your skills.

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What does the learning cycle process mean to you and how have you integrated it into your work?

Explain your understanding of the learning cycle process and provide concrete examples of how you have applied these principles to lead effective project adaptations or improve program strategies based on evaluation findings.

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How do you approach training and mentoring MEL staff?

Discuss your philosophy on mentorship and training, highlighting specific strategies, such as hands-on exercises, regular feedback, and creating a supportive learning environment, drawing from experiences where you facilitated significant growth among team members.

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Why do you think the role of a Senior MEL Specialist is crucial for Bixal?

Articulate the importance of robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks in achieving the organization's goals. Specifically focus on how these frameworks impact decision-making, enhance client satisfaction, and support program effectiveness.

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What tools or software are you proficient with in MEL tasks?

Specify the MEL tools you are experienced with, such as Development Information Solutions (DIS) or other data visualization software. Share examples of how you have effectively utilized these tools to derive actionable insights from data.

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Bixal is determined to improve people’s lives. The work we do helps our clients unite stakeholders, optimize resources, and better serve citizens all over the world.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
December 6, 2024

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