Evaluation And Learning Specialist

Phaki Personnel; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in Pretoria is seeking a candidate to execute the Jobs Fund Evaluation Framework and Learning Agenda. The role involves evaluating projects, supporting stakeholder engagement, and optimizing data management processes. Ideal candidates will have strong analytical skills and experience in managing evaluations and learning frameworks. Contributions to the synthesis of knowledge within the Jobs Fund are essential in this pivotal position.

Responsibilities

• Execute the Jobs Fund Evaluation Framework and Learning Agenda.
• Support the evaluation of projects and extract learnings from the Jobs Fund portfolio.
• Manage the service provider selection process.
• Conduct formative, process and summative evaluations.
• Analyze and synthesize findings from project evaluations.
• Support engagement with stakeholders on learning and evaluation.
• Support the development of a learning framework with each business unit.
• Optimize the Jobs Fund's collection and management of data.
• Provide technical support to research and data analysis assignments.
• Support the synthesis of Jobs Fund knowledge.

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES

Evaluation and Support : Execute the Jobs Fund Evaluation Framework and Learning Agenda. Support the evaluation of projects and extract learnings from the Jobs Fund portfolio.

Provide the inputs to the Terms of Reference for evaluations and manage the service provider selection process. Manage the service providers secured to carry out project-level evaluations. Provide inputs into the design of baseline assessments, formative evaluations, mid-term evaluations and summative evaluations for projects. Support partners in the development of results chains for their projects. Plan for, design and conduct formative, process and summative evaluations. Utilize evaluation results to improve project roll-out and to appraise new projects. Promote and Enhance Learning : Analyze and synthesize findings from project evaluations. Support awareness sessions with partners on evaluations, results-based management and project close-outs. Perform benchmarking and learning exercises on job creation, sustainability and systemic change. Document feedback on learnings from case studies, reviews, project close-out reports and other related factors. Engage in activities related to the synthesis and dissemination of lessons learned by the Jobs Fund. Support evaluation outputs and facilitate the implementation of recommendations from evaluations. Client Engagement : Liaise and engage with stakeholders on learning and evaluation at the project level and Jobs Fund level. Providing support to Jobs Fund Partners to ensure post-Jobs Fund success. Appraise the Project Implementation Monitoring Plans and Theory of Change of new project applications. Advise on the use of job proxies when required. Evaluation and Learning Framework : Support the JF in meeting evaluation and learning targets.

Evaluation and Learning Framework

Support the development of a learning framework with each business unit in the Jobs Fund. Provide technical support to project managers and the Communications Unit to develop and document compelling outcome and impact success stories, and to foster institutionalization and internalization of learning processes. Contribute to the training of project managers and partners on evaluation methodologies.

Management of Data and Systems

Identify opportunities to optimize the Job Funds collection, use, and management of data. Support the training for Jobs Fund staff on the use of systems and effective data collection, use, and visualization. Simplify complex systems and processes into user-friendly guidance for staff. Collaborate with the grants management system (GMS) team and unit staff on broader system enhancements.

Data Analysis, Research and Learning

Provide technical support to short- and long-term research, analysis, and information gathering assignments in support of evaluation and learning efforts. Manage, analyze, and effectively visualize large and complex data sets. Coordinate and respond to internal and external requests for data and data analysis.

Support the synthesis of Jobs Fund knowledge

Support the synthesis of Jobs Fund knowledge, knowledge dissemination and active engagement of wider market players. Support the systematic recording of the social impact of Jobs Fund projects. JFPs already report social impact through narratives in quarterly reporting.

Monitoring and Evaluation System

Execute the overall framework of the monitoring and evaluation activities. Assess the validity of monitoring and evaluation through regular and ad-hoc review of activities. Draft, revise and update tools and data collection procedures (e.g. logical framework, project performance tracking, indicators, data flow chart, M&E manuals). Support the Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Learning Lead in defining and implementing key project performance indicators (KPI) as well as monitoring them throughout the duration of projects.