Position Summary:
The Data Associate plays a pivotal role in ensuring the provision of high-quality, timely, and accurate data to guide project execution, ongoing monitoring, and strategic decision-making. In collaboration with the Technical Program Manager and MEL Lead, this position is dedicated to enhancing data collection, validation, analysis, and reporting procedures in strict accordance with established MEL frameworks and U.S. data quality standards.
The role involves sustaining efficient data systems, generating analytical deliverables and visual representations, and facilitating field data collection alongside stakeholder engagement. Ideal for a professional in the early stages of their career, it demands robust quantitative capabilities, meticulous attention to detail, and the skill to convert data into practical insights that improve program effectiveness and adaptive management strategies.
Oversee and execute key duties and responsibilities with precision and accountability. Lead a range of critical tasks, ensuring alignment with organizational goals while maintaining high standards of performance. Facilitate process improvements through strategic planning and diligent oversight. Collaborate cross-functionally to drive efficiency and innovation. Monitor progress, analyze outcomes, and implement corrective measures as needed to optimize results.
Ensure the timely, comprehensive, and accurate gathering of data from project sites and partners, adhering strictly to MEL plans and established reporting timelines.
Conduct systematic data cleansing, validation, and verification processes to uphold superior data quality and integrity while promptly addressing inconsistencies in collaboration with data providers.
Maintain datasets and data systems that are consistently organized, secure, and current to facilitate efficient access, reporting, and audits—including preparation for Data Quality Assessments (DA).
Provide assistance in conducting regular data analysis and producing comprehensive summaries, interactive dashboards, and insightful visualizations using tools such as Excel, Superset, and DHIS2 to guide programmatic decision-making effectively.
Facilitate the accurate entry, extraction, and reporting of data while ensuring strict adherence to project, national, and donor specifications.
Conduct field-based data collection efforts, including surveys, interviews, and validation exercises, to enhance the precision and comprehensiveness of collected information.
Monitor project indicators, outputs, and progress in relation to established targets and deadlines, while identifying risks, delays, and any deficiencies in available data.
Assist in compiling regular progress reports and updates, emphasizing key performance trends, challenges encountered, and corrective measures implemented.
Assist in the creation, refinement, and implementation of standardized tools, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and reporting templates to enhance data management practices and ensure consistency across operations.
Collaborate with project teams and external partners to facilitate the seamless transfer of data, uphold reporting standards, and leverage insights to inform strategic decision-making.
Offer comprehensive logistical and administrative assistance for meetings, training sessions, and stakeholder engagements focused on data-related initiatives.
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience is a prerequisite for this role. Candidates must possess prior experience in a similar position, demonstrated through a minimum of three years in a relevant capacity. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are essential, along with proficiency in industry-standard software and tools. Exceptional communication and organizational skills are required to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams. A commitment to continuous learning and professional development is also necessary to adapt to evolving industry standards and business needs.
A bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Data Science, Actuarial Science, Public Health, or a related quantitative field is required.
Proven expertise in advanced Microsoft Excel, complemented by hands-on experience with data visualization and reporting tools, including Power BI, Superset, and DHIS2.
Proficiency in cleaning, validating, and preparing diverse quantitative and qualitative datasets for analytical purposes is required.
Possesses solid experience with various digital data collection tools, data entry platforms, and routine data management systems.
Demonstrates a strong capability to assist in research initiatives, conduct field data collection efforts, or perform analytical tasks within a well-defined program framework.
Proficiency in examining documentation, compiling reports, and maintaining follow-ups with stakeholders to verify the integrity and precision of data.
Demonstrates meticulous attention to detail while ensuring the consistent upholding of rigorous data quality standards.
Proven proficiency in organizational and time management, adept at handling competing priorities while consistently meeting established deadlines.
Effective communication and strong interpersonal skills are essential, enabling seamless collaboration within diverse, cross-functional teams.
Highly motivated, proactive, and versatile, this individual excels in autonomous work settings while demonstrating a strong capacity for independent problem-solving and initiative in a performance-driven environment.
A solid understanding of statistical software platforms such as R, STATE, or Python is considered beneficial.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
