Join Plan International as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist

Date Posted: 11 April 2025 Location, Deadline: 21 April 2025

Are you a results-driven Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) expert with a passion for driving change in children’s lives? Do you want to work with a globally renowned development and humanitarian organisation that prioritizes children’s rights and equality for girls? If so, the role of MERL Specialist at Plan International in Yaounde, Cameroon could be your next great opportunity.

Introduction: Be the Change Behind the Change

Working in international development can often feel overwhelming — especially if you’re looking to move into a more technical or strategic role. But don’t be discouraged! Plan International’s newly advertised MERL Specialist position offers you the platform to shape country-wide strategies that directly improve children’s lives. This is your chance to lead impactful monitoring and evaluation efforts and ensure that every project reflects the values of accountability, inclusivity, and equality.

And remember: even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications, you may still be the ideal candidate.

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About Plan International

With over 85 years of experience and operations in more than 80 countries, Plan International is a leading development and humanitarian organisation committed to advancing children’s rights and gender equality. Their work is deeply rooted in fighting poverty, exclusion, violence, and discrimination, especially where it affects girls the most.

By working with communities, youth, governments and other stakeholders, Plan International continues to deliver transformative change across the life cycle of children — from birth to adulthood.

Visit https://researchjobshub.com regularly to find other powerful opportunities like this one.

Why This Role Matters: The MERL Specialist’s Impact

As a MERL Specialist, you are not just designing indicators and dashboards. You are shaping how progress is tracked and measured across an entire country programme. You ensure that projects aren’t just well-intentioned, but effective and evidence-based.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the design and revision of Plan Cameroon’s Country Strategy.
• Supporting the creation of high-quality MERL frameworks, work plans, and results-based tracking systems.
• Ensuring project alignment with MERL standards, including documentation like Detailed Implementation Plans (DIPs).
• Strengthening knowledge management and promoting learning within programmes.
• Coordinating and integrating various technical areas to enhance synergy and effectiveness.
• Supporting proposal development by embedding MERL strategies and evidence-based methodologies.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a strategic, technical, and people-focused environment.

Why You Qualify — Even If You’re Unsure

We understand that job descriptions can be intimidating. But here’s a breakdown that might help boost your confidence:

Educational background:

• A Master’s degree in economics, public policy, international relations, development studies, or any relevant field.
• Don’t have a Master’s? Relevant work experience can compensate. So if you have a Bachelor’s degree (BSc Hons) and solid MERL experience, go ahead and apply!

Experience:

• Between 5 to 7 years of experience in programme monitoring, evaluation, or research.
• Proven ability in indicator development, data analysis, performance tracking, and reporting.
• Comfortable with systems used to collect, validate and report on programmatic data.
• Experience supporting donor-funded proposals and designing results frameworks.

Soft skills that make a difference:

• Strategic thinker with strong organisational and communication skills.
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset.
• A commitment to gender equality and children’s rights.

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What Plan International Offers You

Working with Plan International means more than just a job. You become part of a global family that values diversity, equality, and inclusive leadership.

Benefits of joining Plan:

• Opportunity to contribute to long-term, transformational change for girls.
• A diverse and inclusive work environment.
• The ability to work with global experts in development and humanitarian fields.
• A strong focus on professional development and learning.

And let’s not forget the personal satisfaction of knowing your work is making a tangible difference in the lives of children across Cameroon.

How to Apply + Tips for Success

To apply, head to Plan International’s career portal and submit your application before 21 April 2025.

Here are a few tips for a strong application:

• Tailor your CV to highlight relevant MERL experience.
• Use keywords from the job description such as data analysis, results framework, and knowledge management.
• Share real examples where your monitoring and evaluation work led to improved outcomes.
• Highlight your commitment to gender equity and safeguarding principles.

Also, visit https://researchjobshub.com for free templates, CV tips, and application guides.

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Disclaimer

This article is independently created by Research Jobs Hub to highlight and simplify opportunities for applicants. We are not affiliated with Plan International or any other organisation mentioned. Always apply directly via the official recruitment portal and never pay for job applications.

Final Words

Plan International’s MERL Specialist role in Cameroon is a chance to shape national-level development work. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking for a bigger challenge or a dedicated MERL officer seeking your next step, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Remember: if you’re passionate, qualified, and committed to change, then you deserve a seat at the table. Don’t let self-doubt stop you.

Apply today — and let your data-driven insights help change lives.

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