FAO is partnering with UNDP and the Government of Zimbabwe to implement the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF II), with funding support from the European Union and the Government of Ireland.
The programme aims to build resilience in vulnerable rural communities, improve food and nutrition security, promote sustainable natural resources management and reduce the impact of natural disasters.
The Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist will support FAO’s technical contribution to ZRBF II Outcome 2.
Job Summary
- Employer: FAO
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Monitoring and Evaluation
- Closing Date: 2026-09-22
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement the M&E framework for FAO programmes, including targets and indicators.
- Generate evidence of FAO’s technical contribution and support verification of results reported by consortium partners.
- Design and operationalize an M&E tool to track progress against agreed resilience outcome and output indicators.
- Document and demonstrate tangible results, building on baseline data and outcome monitoring surveys.
- Consolidate quarterly and bi-annual project progress update reports.
- Participate in large and complex field missions, including providing guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties.
- Update data for the PAID system and project milestones in FPMIS.
- Contribute to required project progress reports in line with donor requirements and guidelines.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Requirements
- Advanced university degree in monitoring and evaluation, agriculture, international development, humanitarian studies, sociology, statistics or a related field.
- Working knowledge of English at level C.
- At least five years of progressively responsible experience in monitoring, learning and evidence generation, evaluation, research, technical assessment and programme implementation.
- Nationality of Zimbabwe.
- Relevant experience conducting or contributing to complex thematic, programme, portfolio or project monitoring and evaluations.
- Ability to synthesize complex evidence and prepare clear, balanced and evidence-based evaluation products.
- Knowledge of FAO and experience with FAO tools and procedures for project implementation, monitoring and reporting is an asset.
- Ability to technically supervise, manage and support field activities.
- Experience working across humanitarian, development and normative contexts.
- Good analytical and writing skills.
- Good communication and advocacy skills.
- Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe is an asset.
- Previous experience with the UN or international organizations in similar positions is an added advantage.
How to Apply
About the Company
FAO Zimbabwe is the country office of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, based in Harare. It implements diverse initiatives across Zimbabwe's agriculture sector in support of FAO's Resilience Strategy for Southern Africa. Its work spans climate-resilient farming, food security, livestock health, and sustainable natural resource management. The office partners with the Government of Zimbabwe, development agencies, and local communities to strengthen rural livelihoods. Through these programmes, FAO Zimbabwe contributes to building a more resilient and food-secure nation.
Working for a food-secure Zimbabwe through resilient agriculture
Website: https://www.fao.org/zimbabwe/en
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an M&E Specialist role in Zimbabwe?
A degree in Statistics, Economics, or Development Studies is usually essential. Professional certifications in M&E or proficiency in software like SPSS, STATA, or KoboToolbox are highly valued by employers.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this position?
You will design data collection tools and conduct regular field visits to project sites across various provinces. Your time will be spent analyzing data to produce progress reports and ensuring project targets are met.
What is the typical work culture and expectation for M&E roles in the Zimbabwean NGO sector?
There is a strong emphasis on accuracy, transparency, and the ability to work in remote rural areas. Professionals are expected to be culturally sensitive and capable of managing diverse stakeholders.
What are the realistic career progression paths for an M&E Specialist?
You can advance to a Monitoring and Evaluation Manager or a Program Quality Lead. Many specialists eventually transition into senior consultancy roles or strategic planning positions.
What benefits are commonly offered to M&E professionals in Zimbabwe?
Standard packages typically include medical aid, a pension scheme, and generous annual leave. Some organizations also provide travel allowances for frequent field-based assignments.
How should I apply, and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in a candidate?
Apply through official portals with a tailored CV and a cover letter highlighting your field experience. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate a proven track record of data-driven decision-making.
