Summary

The Database Specialist will assist in the design and development of a data collection and management system for the project team. S/he will manage and troubleshoot the Monitoring & Evaluation database and be responsible for generating project reports, as well as supervising periodic data quality audits. S/he will be responsible for development of appropriate dashboards, as required. The Database Specialist will take the lead in the development of tools for collecting, assuring quality, entering, storing, retrieving and organizing project data.

S/he will also support the MEL Specialist and collaborate with the MEL Manager and Dashboard Specialist in the development of training and providing support for data collection, analysis, dissemination, and use at all levels of service delivery.  This position reports to the MEL Specialist. This is a full-time position based in Nairobi.

The Database Specialist’s responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Develops standard operating procedures and systems for data collection, storage and analysis of data;
• Designs and manages upkeep of project database, including regular data security and quality assurance activities, such as storage and backups, testing of data integrity, periodic recovery testing, and logical consistency checks;
• Analyzes data for dashboards, reports and presentations;
• Troubleshoots issues with participants’ use of paper forms and tablets for data entry into Performance Tracking System and provides technical assistance, as needed;
• Builds the capacity of project staff on basic and advanced data management skills, data processing protocols and assisting with statistical analysis;
• Develops and enforces project-wide data processing protocols, including manuals and reference guides, for proper use of the project database and related functions;
• Assists in planning and implementing data reconstruction exercises;
• Supervises the implementation of routine data quality audits;
• Provides technical guidance to other staff in data management;
• Maintains updated data collection and reporting tools;
• Works with project staff to find and implement technological solutions to data-related challenges;
• Produces regular reports according to the guidelines determined by project management;
• Works with project team members and partners throughout the country to ensure the database functionality meets their needs;
• Supports the development and conduct of presentations related to data and dashboards as needed;
• Other duties, as assigned.

Requirements

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or other related degree required. An advanced degree is preferred.

Skills and Experience:

• 6 to 7 years of progressively responsible and directly relevant experience required in developing, managing and troubleshooting M&E databases;
• Minimum 4 to 6 years’ experience working with international NGOs, preferably in the education sector; experience with USAID-funded projects desirable;
• Experience with data collection software such as SurveyToGo and KoBo Toolbox, including programming software onto tablets for data collection purposes;
• Experience in training and mentoring others in electronic data collection, especially using tablets, preferred;
• Experience conducting statistical analysis of data and proficiency in Microsoft Office suite;
• Strong organizational, communication, computer, and interpersonal skills;
• Experience creating data visualizations, including charts, graphs, and maps;
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as within a team setting;
• Must be able to negotiate diplomatically and function well under pressure and meet strict deadlines.