MEAL Associate

Job Description

Job Title : MEAL Associate 

Location : Sankhuwasabha (1) and Gulmi (1) 

Reports to : MEAL Coordinator 

Supervises : None

Position Overview:

The MEAL Associate is responsible for field level data collection, progress and quality monitoring, and implement other MEAL related priorities of UWS Nepal. The primary responsibility of the position is to operationalize and implement UWS Nepal’s MEAL systems and mechanisms at the district level, in alignment with the guidance, standards, and priorities set by the Country MEAL Team.

The position holder requires a strong understanding of MEAL systems and processes, the ability to manage and analyze large datasets, strong observation skills, and the capacity to verify and validate data to ensure data quality and accuracy. Similarly, the incumbent will conduct periodic data quality assurance and conduct child consultation to understand the perception of the children towards the program. The role also requires close coordination with field program teams, schools, and other key stakeholders to facilitate effective data collection, reporting, and utilization. The MEAL Associate plays a critical role in promoting evidence-based decision-making by ensuring that reliable data is available and used appropriately at the field level.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Conduct regular field visits to project sites to monitor activities, utilizing kobo tools.

• Track project progress against established indicators and activity targets using Indicator Tracking Tables (ITT).

• Coordinate with school, stakeholders and community members for data collection and guide and supervise enumerators in assessments.

2. Data Collection, Coordination, and Reporting 

• Collect periodic data as per country MEAL team guidelines and facilitate the data collection process in coordination with field program team. 

• Ensure completeness and accuracy of data collection by field staff and verify data with source documents, register and reporting formats. 

• Lead and support timely compilation and submission of monthly and quarterly reports.

• Maintain proper records and documentation of all monitoring data and reports.

• Work in close communication with country MEAL team in regards periodic data collection and reporting timeline.

• Piloting and testing of the tools and templates developed by the country team.

3. Program Monitoring and quality assurance

• Conduct quality benchmark monitoring of the activities, prepare report, action plan and do necessary follow of with the program team. 

• Compile monthly report of quality benchmark monitoring and share with the field program team.

• Conduct regular Data Quality Assessments (DQAs) and implement agreed data quality improvement actions.

4. Collaboration, Coordination and Technical Support

• Serve as the key link between the central MEAL team and field staff to ensure effective coordination and information sharing. 

• Provide technical support and guidance to field staff, volunteers, and enumerators on MEAL tools, data collection, reporting, and data quality standards.

• Support orientations and refresher trainings on MEAL processes and tools. 

• Follow up with field teams to ensure timely, accurate, and complete data collection aligned with project indicators.

• Participate in regular coordination meetings and incorporate feedback to continuously improve monitoring processes.

Qualification and Experience:

Education:

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in Education, or relevant subject

Experience:

• Minimum 6 months relevant experience in MEAL, data collection and project support.

• Prior experience of NGO and development sector specially in education and other sector is preferred.

Skills and Competencies:

• Basic understanding of monitoring, evaluation, and reporting systems.

• Familiarity in Microsoft Excel, Word, and digital data collection platforms; experience with KoboToolbox or ODK is preferred.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills and have ability to work with multiple stakeholders.

• Preferred a valid driving license for two-wheeler.

• Willingness and ability to work in field settings and travel frequently as required.

Application: 

Fill out this form to apply for MEAL Associate position(s). In addition to submitting your application, applicants need to send their updated CV to hr.nepal@uwsglobal.net with the subject line “Application for MEAL Associate”.