Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis – GAIN Kenya Programs

Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis – GAIN Kenya Programs

Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Entry-Level (Internship)
Type: 6-Month Fixed-Term Contract

Key Responsibilities

As an Intern in Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in Nairobi, Kenya, you will play a vital role in supporting the monitoring and data analysis activities within GAIN Kenya programs. Reporting directly to the Monitoring Manager, your responsibilities will include:

1. Data Analysis and Visualization
   • Conducting data analysis for various projects
   • Designing data collection tools using survey CTO
   • Creating impactful data visualizations in Tableau
2. Results Framework and Monitoring Plans
   • Collaborating with GAIN country and Knowledge & Leadership (KL) team
   • Assisting in the development and review of results/logical frameworks and monitoring plans
3. Quality Assurance and Data Collection
   • Ensuring quality assurance of routine monitoring data
   • Collecting data from implementing partners and government agencies to track program progress
4. Field Visits
   • Conducting field visits as required to ensure program progress aligns with monitoring indicators
5. Data Review and Reporting
   • Reviewing and analyzing collected data
   • Preparing comprehensive reports on monitoring indicators
6. Dissemination Support
   • Contributing to the analysis of collected information
   • Assisting in the preparation of reports, briefs, and other materials for dissemination
7. Research and Evaluations
   • Providing support for research studies and evaluations as assigned by supervisors

About You

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Fluency in written and spoken English
• Working knowledge of additional languages (an advantage)
• Willingness and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Bachelor’s degree in statistics, public health, or related fields
• Computer literacy and proactive approach
• Commitment to quality, accuracy, and attention to detail
• Flexibility and occasional in-country travel capability

About Our Offer

The salary for this role is KES 22,000 per month (gross salary).

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis:

1. Highlight Data Analysis Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in data analysis tools like Tableau and experience in designing data collection tools.
2. Demonstrate Language Skills: If you have additional language skills, showcase them, as they can be advantageous in a multi-cultural setting.
3. Detail Field Experience: If you have prior field experience, especially in monitoring and evaluation, provide specific examples to showcase your hands-on approach.
4. Connect with GAIN’s Mission: Align your application with GAIN’s mission and express your enthusiasm for contributing to improved nutrition.
5. Show Research and Evaluation Interest: Highlight any relevant experience or coursework in research studies and evaluations to demonstrate your commitment to the role.
6. Illustrate Quality Assurance Commitment: Stress your commitment to quality assurance and attention to detail in handling monitoring data.
7. Express Flexibility and Willingness to Travel: Clearly communicate your flexibility and willingness to occasionally travel within the country.
8. Highlight Proactive Attitude: Illustrate instances where your proactive approach has contributed to successful outcomes in your previous roles.
9. Link Computer Literacy to Role Requirements: Showcase your computer literacy skills and relate them to the demands of the position.
10. Commitment to Continuous Learning: Communicate your commitment to ongoing learning and how you stay updated on advancements in monitoring and evaluation.

Sample Cover Letter for an Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis Role:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis position at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), as advertised. With a solid educational background in statistics and a proactive approach to data analysis, I am eager to contribute to GAIN’s impactful programs in Kenya.

Passion for Data Analysis: During my academic journey, I honed my data analysis skills through coursework and hands-on projects. My proficiency in tools like Tableau and Survey CTO has equipped me to provide valuable insights for various projects, aligning with the responsibilities outlined for the internship. For instance, in my recent project, I utilized Tableau to visualize complex datasets, facilitating informed decision-making.

Multicultural Adaptability: I am fluent in written and spoken English, and my experiences in collaborative projects involving diverse teams have strengthened my adaptability in multicultural environments. This adaptability aligns seamlessly with GAIN’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within its workforce.

Flexibility and Travel Readiness: As someone highly flexible and adaptable, I am ready to travel occasionally in-country to ensure the on-track progress of program activities. My previous role, which involved field visits, allowed me to witness firsthand the positive impact of such visits in maintaining program momentum.

Alignment with GAIN’s Values: I am deeply committed to quality and accuracy, traits that I believe align well with GAIN’s values. My attention to detail was showcased in my role at [Previous Company], where I consistently ensured data accuracy in routine monitoring, contributing to the success of program activities.

Educational Background: I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, providing me with a strong foundation for the analytical aspects of the role. My education, coupled with my computer literacy, positions me to effectively contribute to GAIN’s monitoring and data analysis initiatives.

Enthusiasm for GAIN’s Mission: GAIN’s mission to improve nutrition globally resonates with my personal and professional aspirations. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that make a lasting impact on community health.

Additional Languages: While I am proficient in English, I am also currently learning [Additional Language], reflecting my commitment to continuous improvement and my willingness to broaden my language skills for enhanced collaboration.

In conclusion, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to GAIN’s success as an Intern in Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis. My skills, coupled with my passion for impactful initiatives, make me confident in my ability to excel in this role. I am eager to bring my dedication, adaptability, and analytical skills to GAIN and contribute to the organization’s continued success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with the needs of GAIN in more detail.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Information]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Q: What are the key skills required for this role?
   • A: The key skills for this role include proficiency in data analysis tools, multicultural adaptability, flexibility, and a commitment to quality.
2. Q: How often are field visits required?
   • A: Field visits are conducted as needed to ensure program progress aligns with monitoring indicators.
3. Q: Can applicants from outside Kenya apply?
   • A: Yes, we welcome applications from candidates globally.
4. Q: Is there room for career growth within GAIN after the internship?
   • A: GAIN values talent development; successful interns may have opportunities for further career growth.
5. Q: What languages are considered advantageous?
   • A: Proficiency in additional languages is advantageous, though not mandatory.
6. Q: Are there opportunities for involvement in research studies beyond assigned duties?
   • A: Yes, interns may have the chance to contribute to research studies based on their interests and skills.
7. Q: How is data quality ensured in routine monitoring?
   • A: Data quality is assured through rigorous quality assurance processes and collaboration with implementing partners and government sources.
8. Q: Are there networking opportunities within GAIN during the internship?
   • A: Yes, interns have opportunities to network with various teams and departments within GAIN.
9. Q: Is there room for innovation in designing data collection tools?
   • A: Yes, we encourage innovative approaches in designing effective data collection tools.
10. Q: How does GAIN support a diverse and inclusive workplace?
    • A: GAIN is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment that attracts and retains employees from all backgrounds.

Possible Intern, Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Q: Can you share your experience with data analysis tools such as Tableau and Survey CTO?

• A: Certainly. In my academic and practical experiences, I’ve effectively utilized Tableau for visualizing complex datasets, providing actionable insights for decision-makers. Additionally, my proficiency with Survey CTO allowed me to design efficient data collection tools, ensuring streamlined data acquisition.

2. Q: How do you ensure the quality of data in routine monitoring processes?

• A: I ensure data quality through rigorous quality assurance processes. This involves thorough validation checks during data collection and collaborating closely with implementing partners and government sources to maintain data accuracy.

3. Q: Can you provide an example of a project where you contributed to the development or review of results/logical frameworks and monitoring plans?

• A: In a recent academic project, I collaborated with a team to develop a comprehensive results framework for a public health initiative. This involved creating logical frameworks, defining key indicators, and ensuring alignment with monitoring plans to track progress effectively.

4. Q: How do you approach field visits to ensure program progress aligns with monitoring indicators?

• A: Field visits are crucial for firsthand verification. I approach them by conducting thorough pre-visit research, establishing clear objectives, and collaborating with on-site teams. This proactive approach ensures that field visits contribute to an accurate assessment of program activities against monitoring indicators.

5. Q: How do you handle tight deadlines when preparing reports on monitoring indicators?

• A: Time management is crucial. I prioritize tasks, break them into manageable segments, and utilize tools like project management software to track progress. This ensures that even with tight deadlines, the quality of the reports remains high.

6. Q: Can you share an instance where you successfully worked in a multicultural environment?

• A: During my internship at [Previous Company], I collaborated with a diverse team on a regional project. By actively listening, respecting diverse perspectives, and adapting communication styles, I facilitated effective collaboration, contributing to the project’s success.

7. Q: How do you stay updated on advancements in data analysis techniques and tools?

• A: I am committed to continuous learning. I regularly participate in webinars, attend workshops, and follow reputable blogs and industry publications. This allows me to stay abreast of the latest advancements in data analysis, ensuring that my skills remain current.

8. Q: Can you provide an example of a situation where your attention to detail significantly contributed to the success of a project?

• A: In my previous role, meticulous attention to detail in routine monitoring ensured that all data collected was accurate. This attention prevented errors and discrepancies, contributing to the overall success of program activities.

9. Q: How do you balance flexibility and adherence to monitoring plans in a dynamic project environment?

• A: Flexibility is crucial, but it should not compromise the integrity of monitoring plans. I strike a balance by regularly reviewing and adjusting plans based on project dynamics while ensuring that changes are communicated transparently to stakeholders.

10. Q: GAIN values diversity and inclusion. How do you contribute to creating an inclusive environment in the workplace? – A: I actively promote inclusivity by recognizing and respecting diverse perspectives. I actively engage with colleagues, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. In my previous roles, this approach has contributed to a positive and collaborative workplace culture.

We wish you the best in your application process and look forward to welcoming the newest member to our team dedicated to improving global nutrition. For more information, visit our website. Remember, we are an equal employer and do not charge any application/recruitment fees. Your journey with GAIN begins here!