Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Kwekwe
- Category: Monitoring and Evaluation
- Closing Date: 2026-08-26
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the development and regular updating of BRIDGE Project M&E frameworks in line with MERL standards.
- Support effective utilisation of M&E Management Information Systems, including PRIMASYS and the global PMERL System.
- Plan and facilitate data quality assurance, including data auditing and spot checks.
- Support the development and implementation of M&E tools.
- Support feedback and accountability mechanisms.
- Facilitate data collection, verification, compilation, analysis and interpretation.
- Enter project data into the project database.
- Assist in planning, designing and coordinating baseline, midline and endline surveys.
- Review evaluation and research reports and provide recommendations for improvement.
- Assist in developing and disseminating evaluation and research findings to donors, partners, stakeholders and communities.
- Facilitate the generation, storage and utilisation of project information.
- Support generation and compilation of project reports in line with donor guidelines.
- Support documentation of programme and influencing work.
- Support capacity building for project staff and implementing partners on basic MERL.
- Manage SAP to ensure consistency and integrity of project data.
- Track implementation progress against the Detailed Implementation Plan and logframe.
- Prepare MERL content for monthly, quarterly and half-yearly narrative reports.
- Participate in project management meetings and present monitoring evidence.
- Coordinate MERL inputs from implementing partners.
- Support preparation for review meetings, evaluations and technical oversight visits.
Requirements
- A degree in Development Studies, Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics and Operations Research, Strategic Planning or related studies.
- 3-5 years’ relevant working experience in a similar role.
- Ability to adapt MERL approaches and methodologies to the local context.
- Demonstrated report-writing skills.
- Good understanding of donor compliance, rules and regulations relating to M&E and budget management.
How to Apply
About the Company
Plan International Zimbabwe is a dedicated development organization committed to advancing the futures of young women across the nation. The entity focuses on equipping girls with a range of practical and vocational skills crucial for economic independence. Programmes in Zimbabwe include training in traditional crafts like sewing and baking, alongside modern technical skills such as welding. Furthermore, they provide essential computer training to enhance digital literacy and broaden income-generating prospects. This work ultimately empowers girls to secure employment or start businesses, enabling them to earn a living and significantly support their families' prosperity within Zimbabwe.
Empowering girls in Zimbabwe through skills for self-reliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a MERL Officer with Plan International in Zimbabwe?
Typically you need a degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification or certificate in M&E is often an advantage, along with experience using data collection tools like KoboToolbox, SPSS, or Stata. Experience working on donor-funded projects such as USAID, FCDO, or EU programmes is highly valued.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a MERL Officer?
You will design and implement monitoring tools, collect and analyse field data, and support baseline, midline, and endline evaluations. The role also involves preparing progress reports for donors, building the capacity of field staff and partners on M&E systems, and ensuring data quality across project sites. Field travel to programme districts is usually a regular part of the job.
What is the work culture like at NGOs in Zimbabwe?
NGO work culture in Zimbabwe tends to be professional but collaborative, with strong emphasis on accountability to donors and communities. Expect structured reporting deadlines, safeguarding policies, and adherence to organisational values. Punctuality, integrity, and willingness to travel to rural districts are commonly expected.
What career growth can I expect as a MERL Officer?
A MERL Officer can progress to Senior M&E Officer, MERL Coordinator, MERL Manager, and eventually Head of Programmes or Director of Programme Quality roles. Gaining skills in data analytics, learning agendas, and evaluation management accelerates progression. Moving between NGOs or taking regional assignments within organisations like Plan International can also broaden opportunities.
What benefits are typically offered for this role in Zimbabwe?
Benefits vary by employer but commonly include medical aid contributions, pension fund contributions, paid annual leave, and sometimes allowances for field travel. Some organisations offer group life insurance and staff wellness programmes. Specific packages depend on the organisation's funding and your level of experience.
How do I apply and what do employers look for in candidates?
Applications are usually submitted through the organisation's careers portal or via email with a CV and cover letter tailored to the role. Employers look for demonstrated M&E experience, familiarity with donor compliance requirements, strong report-writing skills, and knowledge of the Zimbabwean development context. Highlighting concrete examples of evaluations or data systems you have managed will strengthen your application.