BACKGROUND
Q2 Impact was awarded a five-year cooperative agreement for the USAID Governance Activities in Turkmenistan (GAT) Program. Building on a decade of successful implementation of the legacy GAT contract, Q2 Impact aims to strengthen accountability, effectiveness, and transparency in Turkmenistan's governance through a strategic and sustainable approach.

The primary objective of GAT is to leverage the recent success of the United States Government's (USG) engagement with the Government of Turkmenistan (GoTM) and continue fostering a more internationally engaged Turkmenistan. Through tailored training programs, technical assistance activities, and study tours, Q2 Impact will empower civil servants to better serve their citizens by adopting international governance best practices. This includes fostering inclusive policy dialogue with an active and informed civil society, strengthening policy development and lawmaking processes, and enhancing the GoTM's capacity to effectively enact and implement new policies.

Q2 Impact will partner with leading men and women from the GoTM, the Mejlis (Parliament), and civil society to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to lead by example and become change agents for more democratic governance in Turkmenistan.

To support these goals, Q2 Impact is seeking a skilled and experienced Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist for the USAID Governance Activity in Turkmenistan. The successful candidate will be responsible for research, data analysis, and partner communication, playing a critical role in enhancing governance and institutional capabilities within the country.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position requires expertise in Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL). The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of MEL principles, methodologies, and tools, allowing them to track project outcomes effectively, assess performance, and ensure accountability. Under the general guidance of the USAID GAT Chief of Party, the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist will be responsible for all MEL-related activities to achieve the project’s goals.

1. Oversight and Evaluation:

• Provide oversight in implementing all MEL-related activities for the project.
• Responsible for the design, quality development, and production of all population-based surveys, assessments, and studies.
• Conduct major assessments and evaluations, including participatory data collection methods and protocols.
• Ensure adherence to the Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan (AMELP), adjusting as needed throughout the project.
• Provide guidance to staff and consultants on data collection and other MEL-related issues.

2. Data Management and Analysis:

• Leading the team efforts on data collection, entry, verification, analysis, and reporting.
• Conduct detailed analyses and contribute to periodic reporting to capture and disseminate performance results.
• Ensure data quality and security meet high standards and are compliant with USAID’s rules, procedures, and guidelines.

4. Stakeholder Engagement and Knowledge Management:

• Maintain active engagement with USAID offices, Turkmen government ministries, and local CSOs to foster collaborative relationships.
• Meet quarterly with the Chief of Party to discuss results and conduct periodic after-action review meetings.
• Contribute to knowledge management, ensuring insights are shared with local and international partners.
• Prepare and provide data requested by independent evaluators.

5. Reporting and Compliance:

• Support the development and maintenance of GAT’s Annual MEL Plan, including annual and midterm updates and identifying areas for improvement.
• Compile data and assist the Chief of Party in submitting reports to HQ, USAID, and other stakeholders.
• Follow established procedures for correcting data errors and ensure compliance with project goals and objectives.

6. Other Responsibilities: Provide technical assistance and additional support as required.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in statistics, economics, monitoring & evaluation, or a related field.
• Experience: At least five years of experience in MEL roles, particularly within international donor-funded projects, preferably with USAID.
• Skills: Superior command of both written and verbal English. Strong analytical, management, and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated capability in leading diverse teams and managing complex evaluations.
• Preferred: Knowledge of USAID’s Evaluation Policy and CLA (Collaboration, Learning, and Adapting) practices.

BENEFITS OF JOINING Q2 IMPACT:

• Join a dynamic team known for its commitment to quality and impact in global community development.
• Lead initiatives within a project set to shape the governance landscape of Turkmenistan.
• Work with a diverse group of professionals dedicated to fostering sustainable development and governance.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and generous paid time off.

Join our team at Q2 Impact, where your talents, expertise, and passion can make a difference. Apply today and become part of a dynamic and growing organization.

WORKING CONDITIONS & REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
The role is based in a professional office environment in Turkmenistan. Standard office equipment will be provided. This position might require occasional travel within Turkmenistan and possibly to other project sites as needed.

Q2 IMPACT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals from all cultural, linguistic, and geographical backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Last date to submit application: December 10, 2024 (Washington DC time)

Please note that applications submitted by other means; or without either a resume/CV and/or biodata may not be considered. Only finalists will be contacted; no phone calls please.

A submitted application to QED in response to a position on a bid or proposal, indicates your agreement to be included in our submission to the client at least on an illustrative named basis.

The QED Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. AA/V/D. Reasonable accommodation requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.