Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Advisor, University Centers for Career Development, Grant Position

Reports to: Chief of Party

Purpose: The job holder is responsible for strategically enhancing the overall accountability and transparency of the University Centers for Career Development (UCCD) program through the development of a robust monitoring, evaluation and learning framework and system, and leading the research, documentation, reporting and impact assessment activities. He/she will provide strategic and technical support for the project planning, particularly in terms of setting clear and sound strategies, indicators, and targets, and identifying effective results (outputs, outcomes, and impacts). Furthermore, establish and implement an effective Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) system tracking all UCCD project activities, implemented by The American University in Cairo (AUC) or sub-grantees, to monitor its performance, progress and impact throughout the lifetime of the project, ensuring compliance with USAID regulations and reporting requirements. He/she will develop and oversee the implementation of MEL strategies, instruments, and interventions throughout the life cycle of the UCCD project to generate sound and systematic evidence to support strategic and operational decision making, foster learning for all stakeholders, and continuously enhance the achievement of planned results, targets, and impacts. In addition, the job holder will plan and implement capacity building interventions to project beneficiaries on Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound (SMART) indicators, data collection and dissemination protocols and mechanisms, data management and analysis, and best reporting and information dissemination practices.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the project’s MEL function as per USAID contractual requirements and guidelines, creating a framework, policies, and procedures for the monitoring and evaluation of project activities and results
• Develop, implement and report on a unified monitoring, evaluation, and learning framework across all program components, setting out specific quantifiable performance indicators and targets for overall objectives and activities to measure project progress; and including identification of processes, outputs, outcomes, and sustainability indicators
• Establish and implement a system and mechanisms for collecting and managing project data on the set indicators, in addition to analysis of labor market needs in liaison with the sub-grantee
• Set project performance targets against indicators and track their progress, including tracking employment outcomes among program beneficiaries
• Ensure appropriate baseline data availability or gathering, periodic monitoring, adequate performance reporting, and other activities to facilitate the implementation of evaluations
• Coordinate and facilitate external evaluation interventions by USAID, and tracer studies and employment surveys by partners and sub-grantees
• Conducts impact assessments, baseline studies, surveys, round tables and need assessments to identify necessary changes, future project opportunities, and share lessons for the project sustainability purposes
• Develop and regularly review data collection processes, procedures, and instruments; perform data quality assessment through random inspections, verifications and validations, and adjust as needed
• Develop and oversee the routine implementation of quantitative and qualitative data analysis procedures both at the project level and at UCCDs at public universities
• Conduct regular visits to project sites to build the capacity of UCCD staff in use of a monitoring system that helps them understand the impact of their work, data verification, impact and performance evaluations, organizational learning, and knowledge management
• Identify the core information needs of the UCCD project administration, USAID, partners, and all other stakeholders and beneficiaries, and develop effective mechanisms to address those needs on a timely fashion
• Assist in the development of the project policies, procedures, and work plans to foster accountability and transparency principles and practices, and liaise with deputy chiefs of party in the development of quarterly and annual reports
• Develop a system to capture knowledge and lessons learned, disseminate lessons within the project and among project partners, and integrate the lessons learned into project strategies and activities
• Ensure standardization of MEL tools and methodologies in coordination with sub-grantee, and train staff in their usage, and track their progress
• Develop the project’s formal reporting system to regularly present the findings of monitoring and evaluation interventions and disseminate knowledge about the project’s progress and results to all stakeholders and beneficiaries, and cascade this system to field offices to further institutionalize results-based management practices and evidence-based decision making at public universities’ UCCDs
• Guide UCCD offices at public universities and build the capacity of their staff to develop their progress and achievement reports in alignment with the approved reporting system and formats.
• Disseminate the project’s knowledge, research findings, and lessons learnt during meetings, forums, and other collaborative learning and information sharing events with stakeholders to enhance UCCD’s visibility, impact, and sustainability
• Include additional indicators for monitoring sustainability to include financial targets in the Performance Management Plan for the UCCD
• Design and deliver training interventions to address the MEL needs of project staff and field offices pertaining to the components of the UCCD MEL system
• Manage the performance of staff within the MEL team; supervise and guide their goal setting, team building, operation, coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluation processes in alignment with AUC and USAID policies, an in a way to maximize their achievements and growth

Requirements:

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Master’s degree from an accredited, recognized university in a relevant field

Experience:

• At least 10 years of experience, including a minimum of seven years of monitoring and evaluation experience using large donor systems and templates
• Proven success in designing, managing, and implementing results-based MEL activities throughout the lifetime of the project; including experience in higher education programs
• Proven track record in working on USAID-funded projects leading MEL activities
• Experience in strategic planning and performance measurement, including indicator selection, target setting, reporting, and database management
• Knowledge of the major evaluation methodologies (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, mixed method, and impact) and data collection and analysis methodologies
• Experience in planning and managing surveys; developing questionnaires and refining data collection tools; and with data quality assessments and oversight
• Extensive experience analyzing quantitative and qualitative data and report writing skills

Skills:

• Strong MEL skills, data analysis and report writing skills
• Resourceful through technology and research skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and relationship building
• Proficiency in Excel and other data management systems
• Strong interpersonal and analytical skills
• Excellent command of English and Arabic
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

This position is open until March 6, 2023

Placement is based on the candidate’s experience and skills. Only candidates who make it to the shortlist will be contacted.

"The American University in Cairo is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply."

“We thank all individuals who have expressed interest in working at The American University in Cairo.”