Job description (JD)

Job Title: MEL Specialist

Reports to: Chief Program Officer, JaRco Consulting

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 

Required number: 1 

Contract Duration: 1 year with possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability 

About JaRco Consulting

JaRco Consulting PLC is a leading international consulting firm based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, specializing in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL). We focus on livelihoods and economic security, WASH, health and nutrition, with cross-cutting themes of gender and capacity building in M&E. Our team implements large-scale evaluations, baseline assessments, and data quality assurance activities across Ethiopia and throughout Africa. Learn more at www.jarco.info.

Why Join JaRco

At JaRco Consulting, you will contribute to evidence-based programs that influence policy and improve lives. We offer exposure to major donors, professional growth opportunities, and a respectful, inclusive, and ethical workplace. We provide a safe and performance-driven work environment where skills are developed, contributions are recognized

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced MEL Specialist to lead JaRco’s work with the Mastercard Foundation in Ethiopia. This role is highly strategic and developmental, focusing on strengthening evidence systems, fostering learning cultures, and advancing adaptive management practices among the Foundation’s implementing partners.

The Specialist will design and implement comprehensive Capabilities for Impact, Evidence, and Learning (CIEL) review process, ensuring that partners build sustainable MEL systems and embed adaptive learning into their operations.

This is an opportunity to shape how evidence drives impact across Ethiopia, working at the intersection of technical rigor, facilitation, and capacity building.

Key Responsibilities

CIEL Review Design and Methodology

• Adapt the CIEL framework to the Ethiopian context.
• Develop standardized tools, protocols, and quality guidelines.
• Engage stakeholders to ensure alignment and ownership.

CIEL Review Implementation and Facilitation

• Lead end-to-end implementation of CIEL reviews.
• Facilitate inclusive participation and manage logistics.
• Coordinate partner onboarding, self-assessments, document reviews, and validation workshops.

Analysis and Reporting

• Synthesize findings across multiple data sources.
• Identify cross-cutting patterns and system-level insights.
• Produce clear, evidence-based reports with actionable recommendations and visualizations.

Action Planning and Technical Assistance

• Co-develop practical action plans with partners.
• Provide targeted technical support and facilitate peer learning.
• Track progress against agreed actions.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Management

• Develop training materials and document lessons learned.
• Strengthen MEL and adaptive management practices.
• Build local capacity for long-term sustainability of the CIEL approach.

Education: Master’s degree  in Monitoring & Evaluation, Development Studies, Economics, Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, International Development, or a closely related field.

Experience

• Minimum 8 years of progressive MEL, learning, and adaptation experience.
• Experience with donor-funded projects and reporting.
• Expertise in participatory and developmental evaluation approaches.
• Published research or thought leadership in MEL, learning, or adaptive management.
• Experience in consulting or research environments.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong English and Amharic skills.
• Deep expertise in MEL systems design and implementation.
• Knowledge of data quality frameworks and experience conducting reviews.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (Excel, Tableau, Power BI, R, Python).
• Skilled in qualitative research methods and analysis.
• Strong writing and facilitation skills.
• Strategic thinking, analytical rigor, stakeholder engagement, adaptability, integrity, and problem-solving.

Safeguarding Statement

• JaRco Consulting is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all people and expects all staff, consultants, and partners to share this commitment. We have a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and any form of misconduct.

• All successful candidates will be required to comply with JaRco Consulting’s Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct and will be subject to appropriate pre-engagement checks.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

• JaRco Consulting is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, disability, age, ethnicity, religion, or background. Selection is based on merit, competence, and organizational needs. We highly encourage qualified and interested women and persons with disabilities to apply for the role..

Interested and qualified applicants should submit only their Updated CV (Max.3 pages) and motivation letter ( 1 page) by April 21, 2026 via www.ethiojobs.net

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Job Requirements Master’s degree  in Monitoring & Evaluation, Development Studies, Economics, Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, International Development, or a closely related field. How to Apply Applicants can apply using the link provided below.