Project Management Specialist – Monitoring and Evaluation : USAID 992 views

ISSUANCE DATE: May 24, 2019
CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: June 07, 2019.
POSITION TITLE: Project Management Specialist Monitoring and Evaluation
MARKET VALUE: FSN 11: P443, 290.00- P642,786.00 (Full Performance- Basic Salary)
Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value.
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 5 years renewable contract subject to funds availability and need for the position.
PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy for USAID- Gaborone, Botswana
BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES
Additional benefits include miscellaneous allowance, meal allowance, medical and pension fund subsidy
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: All Botswana citizens and Botswana permanent residence permit holders.
TAXES:USAID/ Botswana Mission do not withhold taxes on behalf of employees but employees have the responsibility of paying tax with the Botswana Government.

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Introduction and background

The position of Project Management Specialist – Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is located within the USAID/Botswana Health Office. The USAID/Botswana Health Office through PEPFAR has expanded in recent years, and has assumed greater responsibility in the achievement of HIV epidemic control and the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets (95% of people living with HIV knowing their HIV status; 95% of people who know their status on treatment; and 95% of people on treatment with suppressed viral loads).

The Project Management Specialist (M&E), working under the overall supervision of the USAID Health Office Director or his designee will contribute to the work of the SI/M&E team in planning, development and management of technical and operational activities associated with the PEPFAR program. This will include serving as the USAID/Botswana point of contact for the following activities:- (1) advanced data analysis, (2) conducting surveys and evaluations, (3) Monitoring, Evaluating, and Reporting (MER) indicator selection, targets setting, and data quality assessments (DQAs), geographic information system (GIS), TraiNet, and the Data for Accountability Transparency and Impact (DATIM) activities and reporting.

MAJOR ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be a member of the USAID Strategic Information (SI) team and the USG Country PEPFAR SI team, in planning and monitoring USAID PEPFAR SI activities across HIV/AIDS technical projects receiving PEPFAR funds to ensure that data generated by M&E, surveillance, and other SI systems are useful and used to monitor program performance. The M&E Specialist will add value in the following roles and responsibilities:

PEPFAR Strategic Information                                                                                   (50%)

Oversee the development, implementation and management of USAID Botswana performance management plans (PMPs) as per USAID’s requirements including ensuring implementing partners (IPs) M&E plans are implemented as per the award agreements. This includes, updating the M&E plans, per annum at a minimum, and aligning the plans to the USAID’s strategic objectives and country strategy. The incumbent will also be tasked with providing technical support to USAID implementing partners on the development of PMPs and ensuring they are aligned to USAID’s monitoring and evaluation regulations and guidelines.

COP target setting and data analysis for USAID projects and also working closely with the SI Technical Working Group (TWG) to set PEPFAR Botswana targets using the PEPFAR target setting tools e.g. data pack. In addition the incumbent will manage the routine program monitoring data as per the PEPFAR monitoring, evaluation, and reporting (MER) guidance. The incumbent will be required to keep abreast with the changes in the MER guidance as they happen and train both IPs and USAID Program Managers on the MER indicators and requirements.

PEPFAR’s reporting and target setting also uses Data for Accountability, Transparency and Impact (DATIM) system and other tools e.g. data pack, for recording and managing the data. The incumbent will be the lead person for the use of DATIM which includes DATIM targets and results entry by both IPs and USAID Program Managers. This includes inviting users for DATIM, coordinating the use of DATIM entries and attending to DATIM queries. This includes training new DATIM users for both IPs and USAID staff, accepting and submitting DATIM entries to S/GAC and conducting data quality checks for both targets and results entries during all the reporting and targets setting period. The incumbent will be tasked with carrying out the data analysis or results and presenting it to both USAID and PEPFAR management team audience.

Lead the use of data for decision making and program improvements. Data analysis and use plays a pivotal role in PEPFAR program planning and decision making for program impact. The incumbent will be the lead for data analysis and use. This includes working directly with partners to improve their data analytic skills, guiding on key variables for analysis, data visualizations, providing technical support on data systems in use and supporting the use of data in every stage of the program implementation. The incumbent will be expected to use advanced data analysis programs including the PEPFAR data programs to advise on program implementation.  Geographic information system (GIS) mapping and management is also used in PEPFAR for data visualization and analysis, the incumbent will also support the use and development of maps for USAID sites in relation to PEPFAR needs for decision making and use. The incumbent will also work closely with IPs on GIS initiatives.

Conduct Data Quality Assessments (DQAs) for the PEPFAR program. Quality data is a cornerstone for evidence-based decision making.  Although Botswana has a relatively well-developed IT infrastructure, there is support needed for PEPFAR IPs on data capturing, processing and reporting of quality data.  The incumbent will be the lead in DQAs actions in line with both USAID and PEPFAR requirements. This includes, preparing DQA plans and carrying out DQAs for USAID supported projects, maintaining the files on DQAs, coordinating all the sites visits for DQAs and training IPs and USAID staff on DQAs.

Overseeing research and evaluations. As a critical area for the SI team, the incumbent will work closely with USAID SI team, Program Managers, IPs and Government of Botswana (GOB) M&E initiatives including research and evaluations. The incumbent will also serve as the project or activity manager for some of the research and evaluations activities. This includes development of technical requirements for Statements of Work for research (SOW) and evaluation activities such as reviewing the SOW, concept notes, tools, protocols and reports.

The incumbent will also represents USAID PEPFAR program for M&E issues at various technical, policy and strategic planning meetings with the MOH and other collaborators and works to influence implementing partners to adopt appropriate M&E/SI strategies for their program activities. Briefs Agency officials on the results of such meetings and prepares written reports for submission to other interested parties.

Project Design, Development, and Management of SI related Projects            (30%)

The incumbent will take on the role of Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR), Alternate AOR, and activity manager for agreements in the Botswana health portfolio, including as AOR for two local procurements totaling $11.1 million over 5 years or approximately $2.2 million annually. Duties will include management of budgets as well as administrative, financial, and technical management and oversight of contracts and agreements.

Participate in the strategic design and procurement of SI and M&E programs in the PEPFAR program. Because of its cross cutting nature, assist other program areas in the design, procurement and management of the monitoring and evaluation aspects of the programs.

Filing, reporting and feedback process, ensuring personal data integrity and security of information in reporting databases and files are carefully guarded. The incumbent will also be responsible for the development, implementation and ongoing maintenance of technical and administrative program files for M&E activities.

Building Local Strategic Information and M&E Capacity                         (20%)

The incumbent will work with all PEPFAR-funded USAID partners, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international NGOs, community- and faith-based organizations, to strengthen their M&E capacity and address the sustainability of national capacity in M&E.

Physical condition:

The successful candidate will be required to pass a medical certification exam, paid for by the U.S. Government and security clearance. USAID prohibits discrimination in hiring and employment on the basis of physical or mental impairment.  USAID promotes, with reasonable accommodation, the full realization of equal employment opportunities for the disabled in recruitment, promotion, assignment, and training.

APPLYING

Applicability: This position is open to all Botswana citizens and Botswana permanent resident permit holders. USAID/Botswana management will consider nepotism/conflict of interest, budget, section need for continuity and residency status in determining successful applications. Current USG employees on probationary status (i.e., within their first year of employment) are not eligible to apply.

Compensation: The Project Management Specialist – Monitoring and Evaluation will be compensated in accordance with the U.S. Mission to Botswana’s Local Compensation Plan (LCP). The plan includes basic salary, miscellaneous allowance, pension fund and medical aid subsidy. Subject to qualification, compensation for dependents’ education assistance is also available.  The successful candidate’s salary level will be based on prior job-related experience and salary history.

References: Three (3) references, who are not family members or relatives, with working telephone and e-mail contacts. The references must be able to provide substantive information about your past performance and abilities. USAID reserves the right to contact your previous employers for relevant information concerning your performance and may consider such information in its evaluation of the application.

Security Clearance:  Prior to signing a contract, the selected individual will be required to obtain an “employment authorization” if a US Citizen or US Green Card Holder.  This temporary security clearance will be requested while a personal background investigation is conducted.  Instructions for obtaining the security clearance will be forwarded to the selected individual once negotiations have been concluded.

Methods of application submissions:

To Apply:

All interested and eligible candidates should visit  USAID.pnet.co.za to apply for this position. Applicants with pnet accounts can log-in from the above website to apply and first time users will be required to register  on the site before they can apply.  For an application to be considered complete include a high quality cover letter, explaining why you are qualified for the position, with the advert reference #, position title, and a CV of no more than 4 pages.

Failure to comply with these instructions may result in your application being considered “non- responsive” and eliminated from further consideration.

Only short-listed candidates will be acknowledged

POINT OF CONTACT:        

Mr. Seja Matlakala     (012) 452 2358

Ms Gugu Madokwe     (012) 452 2225

Ms Lavinia Denation   (012) 452 2054

INIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Development, Public Health or related field is required.

PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE: 

Minimum five years’ experience in monitoring and evaluating international development and public health programs. Demonstrated experience in advanced statistical analysis for data use and decision making, target setting, evaluation methodology, experimental design sampling methodology and/or data collection and analysis. Experience building organizational capacity in M&E and/or training individuals in M&E

POST ENTRY TRAINING: 

Incumbent will be given on-the-job training regarding Agency policies, procedures and regulations, including the Automated Directives Systems (ADS) and Mission Orders. Courses toward certification as Agreement Officer’s Representative (A/COR) and supervision training will be offered; on-the-job training on financial management and procurement procedures is desirable. Training in USAID project implementation, financial management operating procedures and requirements as needed. Technical trainings to be attended as applicable.
LANGUAGE PROFIENCY:

Level IV (fluent) ability is required in written and spoken English. Level IV also required in Setswana.

JOB KNOWLEDGE: 

Strong knowledge of statistical analysis, data for decision making, theoretical and practical concepts of M&E and working knowledge of epidemiology, surveillance, and survey methods. Thorough knowledge of M&E theory, principles, implementation and evaluation programs. Broad knowledge of the principles of public health programs and practice including knowledge of organizational and operational concepts and practices applied by public, private, non-profit organizations engaged in health related work. Knowledge of health information systems and reporting.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Advanced knowledge of statistical analysis, use of health information systems, targets creating various PEPFAR indicators is preferred, i.e. STATA and SPSS. Ability to use software programs such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Ability to quickly analyze M&E program design, management and implementation approaches. Experience using ArcGIS or similar software packages.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:  

The incumbent will be supervised by the USAID/Botswana Health Office Director or his designee. S/he is expected to be able to exercise considerable independent judgment in carrying out assigned tasks and to be able to function effectively within a multicultural and interagency environment. As a specialist, s/he should work independently on key tasks, and also keep managers and colleagues apprised of the status of work assignments.  Assignments are often self-generated and made in terms of a review of goals and objectives to be achieved and the results expected.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:  This position does not have a supervisory role.

AVAILABLE GUIDELINES:  All guidance from S/GAC, including the Country Operational Plan (COP), USAID’s Automated Directives System (ADS); population and health program guidelines; program papers; Mission Orders and other directives, including other Government of Botswana documents and guidance,
EXERCISE OF JUDGMENT: 

Considerable judgment is required in planning and evaluating the relevance and reliability of information and in organizing and presenting data during the preparation of documents.  The incumbent must use sound judgment in recommending terms of reference for new and continuing activities for funding, selection and training of M&E staff, and reporting to the USAID Team on critical events in the SI/M&E sector.

AUTHORITY TO MAKE COMMITMENTS: 

The incumbent will have no authority to make commitments for the U.S. Government, except in his/her capacity as AOR as designated by the AO.     

NATURE, LEVEL, AND PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: 

Mainly mid-level to high level contacts with Embassy Gaborone, USAID (regional and Washington), USG partner agencies, host government contacts and other stakeholders. The incumbent will have an important technical role in supporting the USAID/Botswana PEPFAR office and as such is expected to collect, analyze and share data across partners and collaborators. Such contacts will be through settings that include large gatherings and one-on-one meetings.

TIME EXPECTED TO REACH FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL: 

One year

Evaluation Criteria and Weights:

1.   Education/Weighted 5% based on initial application review;

2.   English Language Skills/Weighted 20% based on application review, written assessment, and interview;

3.   Prior Work Experience/Weighted 15% based on application review and interview;

4.   Knowledge/Weighted 30% based on written assessment and interview; and

5.   Skills and Abilities/Weighted 30% based on written assessment and interview.

How the Selection will be made:

The successful candidate will be selected based upon the following:

1. a preliminary review of the applicant’s submitted package (which includes the cover letter and CV) to establish that minimum educational, work experience, and English writing fluency requirements are met;
2. tests to include an English writing skills test; a Microsoft Office proficiency test that might include any of the following: Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and any technical skills test that might be deemed appropriate;
3. a personal face to face interview; and
4. reference checks.

• USAID/SA’s Human Resources Section will perform the preliminary review (Step 1 above) to eliminate those applications that do not meet the minimum educational and written English language requirements before forwarding the rest to the Technical Office or Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) for further review and assessment.
• The Technical Evaluation Committee will review each of the forwarded applications against the established evaluation criteria to develop a shortlist of applicants to be tested and possibly interviewed.  Applicants will be contacted for testing (Step 2) and interviews.
• Following the interview (Step 3) during which the applicant will be evaluated against the established criteria, the TEC will make a preliminary determination of candidates to be considered for employment and forward that list to HR. The TEC will conduct and document reference checks. (Step 4) prior to advising the TEC of the results of these checks. Please note that references may be solicited from current as well as former supervisors in addition to the references you provide in your application package. References will only be solicited for those interviewed applicants who are being considered for ranking.
• Based on this final input, the TEC will make its final decision on which candidates to rank order, prepare a selection memo for the review and approval of the Contracting Officer, after which an offer of employment will be made to the successful candidate, and unsuccessful candidates who were interviewed will be contacted and advised of their non-selection.
• As positive medical and security clearances are a condition of employment, the selected candidate will undergo stringent investigation prior to employment with the USAID Mission.

FSN 11: P443, 290.00- P642,786.00 (Full Performance- Basic Salary)