MERL Consultant _at Last Mile Health (LMH), Ethiopia

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Organization: Last Mile Health (LMH)

Deadline: 10 February 2026 (Please note that we will review applications on a rolling basis).

Job Description

The Role

At Last Mile Health (LMH), we dig data. Have you implemented innovative monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL) plans to strengthen health systems across Ethiopia? If so, you may be our next MERL Consultant!

The Consultant will play a hands-on role in managing routine monitoring systems, supporting field-based data collection and quality assurance, and translating data into actionable insights for program learning and decision-making. This role will work closely with program, digital health, and global MERL teams to ensure data systems are functioning effectively, ethical standards are upheld, and evidence is used to inform program adaptation and scale.

This consultancy is well-suited for a MERL professional who is detail-oriented, comfortable working with digital health data systems, and motivated by applying evidence to improve frontline health service delivery.

Project Description

The Consultant will support MERL activities across the following initiatives in our Ethiopia Program:

• Blended Integrated Refresher Training (IRT) for Health Extension Workers (HEWs)
• Eye Glass Distribution initiative
• HEP Assist AI project

The Blended Integrated Refresher Training (IRT) for HEWs enhances the clinical and programmatic skills of frontline HEWs using an updated, blended learning approach that combines digital and in-person training to boost service quality and coverage.  The Eye Glass Distribution initiative delivers essential eye care screening and eyeglasses to individuals in remote and underserved communities. Finally, the HEP Assist AI project leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the Ethiopian Health Extension Program (HEP) through digital decision support tools and improved data analysis, thereby assisting HEWs and driving program efficiency.

Consultancy Details

• Project Duration: 4 – 5  months
• Estimated Fees Amount: $1000 – $1300 (per month tied to deliverables)
• Anticipated start date: Feb 2026
• Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Scope of Work

Monitoring and Data Systems Management

• Support monthly monitoring and performance review processes using DHIS2 and Looker Studio to ensure data accuracy, timeliness, and completeness.
• Collaborate with MERL teams to troubleshoot data system issues and strengthen dashboard functionality and data use.

Field Data Collection Support

• Provide logistical and technical support for field-based data collection activities, including impact evaluation studies.
• Troubleshoot mobile data collection tools in real time and support data quality assurance processes.

Data Entry and Quality Control

• Enter, clean, validate, and maintain datasets in ODK databases, ensuring consistency, completeness, and data integrity.
• Participate in data review meetings, incorporate feedback, and resolve discrepancies in line with data quality assurance plans.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics, Epidemiology, Health Informatics, Data Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• At least 3 years of professional experience in MERL activities, preferably in community health, primary care, or health systems strengthening programs.
• Demonstrated experience supporting MERL components of community-based health programs, including training, service delivery, or evaluation initiatives.
• Hands-on experience with digital health data systems, including:
  • ODK/KoboToolbox for mobile data collection, data entry, and quality control
  • DHIS2 for routine health data monitoring and performance review
  • Looker Studio (or similar tools) for dashboards and data visualization
• Experience supporting field data collection, including tool troubleshooting, data quality assurance, and coordination with field teams.
• Experience conducting baseline or routine data analysis and producing analytical reports and dashboards to support learning and decision-making.
• Strong skills in ethical data management, including IRB processes, confidentiality, and compliance with research and evaluation standards.
• Proficiency in Amharic strongly preferred.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with experience incorporating feedback through team-based review processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience contributing to or leading impact evaluations, mixed-methods research, or learning agendas in health system strengthening, primary care, eye health, or digital health.
• Experience working with AI-enabled or emerging digital health tools for monitoring, evaluation, or service delivery.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and value diversity at LMH. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

 

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