Monitoring & Evaluation, Database Specialist at Education Development Center (EDC)

Job Description

Under the supervision of the Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, the M&E Database Specialist is responsible for streamlining data collection and management systems. He/She will build capacity and help develop a culture of data use for decision making and adaptive management.

Essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Collaborate Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist to design, manage, and strengthen the Monitoring, Evaluation, Assessment, and Research (MEAR) database and data management systems;
• Supervise data collection processes and overall data management activities, including encoding, storing, and transferring data as well as processing;
• Analyze data and information collected at the country level;
• Produce analytical performance-based Dashboard reports, infographics, and visual materials.
• Conduct capacity building and training on the use of data collection tools and procedures for the Initiative Staff and State partners;
• Identify and assess gaps in data and information relevant to program implementation and contribute to the preparation of the capacity development plan to address such needs;
• Coordinate processing activity-level monitoring, including ensuring that data is complete, accurate, and consistent with reports;
• Implement quality control management policies and processes for checking all incoming and outgoing details of data;
• Conduct data quality checks and internal assessments;
• Develop/update training materials in key aspects of databases, monitoring, and verification tools, protocols and processes as needed;
• Monitor compliance with the data collection protocols for each M&E tool;
• Contribute towards the improvement of the existing data collection protocols;
• Produce data quality reports and assist with other reports as needed for the project;
• Regularly back up data collected using approved protocols for data storage;
• Creates and enforces project-wide data processing protocols, including manuals and reference guides, for proper use of the project database and related functions.
• Creating a comprehensive data collection plan, including generation of forms, collection procedures, collection schedule, and rapid appraisal of data (timely data monitoring).
• Routinely analyzing implementation data and proposing performance targets to project leadership as per USAID indicator to ensure progress.
• Assist in the conducting of Early Grade Reading Assessments as needed
• Prepare the Project Performance Data table and project activity tracker for quarterly reports, as required, for submission to Senior M&E Specialist.

QUALIFICATIONS – This position requires educational achievement; excellent writing skills; demonstrable initiative, creativity, and flexibility; ability to effectively work independently as well as in groups; strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Specific requirements:

• Candidates for this position must have at least 3 years of experience developing and maintaining complex databases, preferably with USAID-funded education projects.
• The candidate must have a minimum of Bachelor’s degree preferably in computer science, information systems/technology, or other related fields.
• Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the following computer languages and systems.
• Excel – ability to use advanced formulas, functions, and calculations to analyze data. Create and update the database through connected worksheets.
• Structured Query Language (SQL) – Understands T-SQL to build complex queries and sub-queries as well as how to filter, group, join, and sort the results. Uses SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and other query tools to connect, query, and manage databases.
• SQL Databases - Can create relational database structures, tables, fields and properties, primary and foreign keys, and indexes. Creates complex SQL queries, Store Procedures, and Functions. Preferable experience in Microsoft SQL Server databases.
• Power BI – Ability to create basic Power BI dashboards and data visualizations connecting to external data sources like Excel to analyze data.
• Experience with technologies typically used in the ICT4D and data management space including CommCare, SurveyToGo, Kobo Toolbox, etc.;
• In addition, candidates should have experience with databases for monitoring program implementation and in data collection, processing, and analysis systems.
• Candidates must demonstrate the ability to balance work within a team environment while working with minimal supervision; strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; good technical writing skills.
• Candidates must be willing to travel to Bauchi, Sokoto, and other States as required by the Organisation.

An ideal candidate will have:

• Experience in data collection, processing, and analysis
• Statistical analysis skills
• Ability to analyze and provide written synopses
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to handle multiple priorities
• Prior experience with USAID-funded projects preferred