Assistant Programme Monitoring Officer

Terms of Reference

General Background

(Brief description of the national, sector-specific, or other relevant context in which the individual contractor will operate)

The Regional Bureau for West and Central Africa, based in Dakar, provides oversight, technical guidance, and operational support to nine country operations with a UNHCR presence, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, and Senegal. The Bureau also liaises closely with regional bodies, such as ECOWAS and ECCAS, as well as UN regional entities, humanitarian partners, and development actors, ensuring a coordinated and strategic response to the region’s humanitarian needs. Given the bilingual nature of the region, where both English and French are official working languages, full proficiency in both—spoken and written—is essential for effective communication and collaboration.
The region faces a dynamic and complex humanitarian landscape shaped by political instability, protracted conflicts, and rising displacement. By the end of 2025, the area is expected to host 15.2 million forcibly displaced persons, with internally displaced persons (IDPs) constituting the most significant proportion, particularly in the Central Sahel, where insecurity and armed violence continue to escalate. In addition, crises in regions such as Sudan and the Lake Chad Basin are exacerbating cross-border movements into neighboring countries like Chad and the Central African Republic, while displacement trends are increasingly spilling over into coastal countries in the Gulf of Guinea. Climate change further intensifies these challenges, impacting resource availability and livelihoods and triggering new population movements.

Within this challenging operational environment, monitoring efforts are guided by regional and country strategies under the strategic oversight of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer. The Assistant Monitoring Officer will be key in implementing monitoring systems to ensure high-quality data collection, analysis, and reporting supporting evidence-based programming. The incumbent will ensure that monitoring tools align with strategic priorities and protection principles established at the regional and country levels.
Under the supervision of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer, the Assistant Monitoring Officer will contribute to monitoring programme outcomes, tracking progress against established targets, and ensuring that data systems reflect age, gender, and diversity considerations. This includes supporting the application of standardized tools, facilitating data collection and validation processes, and preparing reports that inform programming decisions. The incumbent will critically support country operations to enhance humanitarian responses’ effectiveness and accountability by ensuring data quality and consistency.
The role requires close collaboration with country teams, field colleagues, and partners to apply monitoring frameworks effectively and ensure they respond to operational needs. The incumbent will support coordination mechanisms, working alongside protection, programme, and technical units to facilitate a coherent monitoring approach across operations.

To succeed in this role, the Assistant Monitoring Officer must demonstrate strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will bring a solid understanding of monitoring processes, data analysis, and reporting tools within humanitarian settings. Flexibility, teamwork, and a service-oriented approach are essential to working effectively under the supervision of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer in a dynamic, multicultural environment. This position is key to supporting the Bureau’s monitoring efforts and supporting evidence-based decision-making, aligning with regional and country strategies.

Purpose and Scope of Assignment

(Concise and detailed description of activities, tasks, and responsibilities to be undertaken, including expected travel, if applicable)

Under the supervision of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer, the Assistant Monitoring Officer will support the implementation of monitoring systems across the West and Central Africa region, ensuring programme performance is effectively tracked, results are updated in COMPASS, and outputs are of high quality. The role requires close collaboration with the Data, Information Management, and Analysis (DIMA) unit, which oversees data systems and analysis, to ensure alignment with operational priorities and regional strategies.

• Assist in rolling out standardized monitoring tools and processes aligned with regional and country strategies.
• Support country operations in establishing monitoring plans with clear indicators that reflect programme outcomes and age, gender, and diversity (AGD) considerations.
• Regularly update key indicators, programme results, and performance data in COMPASS to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliability.
• Collaborate with the DIMA unit to ensure monitoring systems align with data infrastructure and to interpret programme performance data for operational use.
• Collect, consolidate, and validate monitoring data to ensure high-quality performance tracking and reporting inputs.
• Support the analysis of monitoring data to identify trends, gaps, and achievements, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and operational improvements.
• Assist in preparing monitoring reports, dashboards, and performance updates to ensure timely and accurate reporting for stakeholders.
• Provide quality assurance of monitoring outputs to ensure UNHCR standards and guidelines compliance.
• Support country teams and partners in applying monitoring tools and processes, particularly in updating and maintaining data in COMPASS.
• Assist in capacity-building activities, including training sessions on monitoring frameworks, reporting standards, and COMPASS functionalities.
• Facilitate coordination with relevant units within the Regional Bureau, including programme, protection, technical teams, and DIMA, to ensure a coherent and integrated approach to monitoring.
• Support Inter-Agency monitoring initiatives, including participation in joint assessments, reporting, and coordination efforts with UN agencies and partners.
• Conducted field missions to country operations as needed to provide hands-on technical support, monitored programme implementation, and documented lessons learned and best practices for regional dissemination.
• Escalate key findings, challenges, and recommendations to the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer to inform strategic oversight and decision-making processes.

The Assistant Monitoring Officer will focus on implementing established tools and frameworks under the guidance of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer, with strategic oversight remaining the supervisor’s responsibility. The incumbent will enhance programme performance, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in line with regional priorities by ensuring adequate monitoring support, quality outputs, and regular updates in COMPASS.

The position requires travel to field locations across the West and Central Africa region to provide technical support, conduct monitoring missions, and facilitate capacity-building activities.

Monitoring and Progress Controls

(Clear description of measurable outputs, milestones, key performance indicators, and/or reporting requirements which will enable performance monitoring)

The performance of the Assistant Monitoring Officer will be assessed using clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) indicators under the supervision of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer. The incumbent will provide technical and operational support to ensure alignment with regional strategies. At the same time, strategic oversight, final reporting, and Inter-Agency coordination remain the responsibility of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer.

• Ensure 100% of relevant programme indicators and results are updated in COMPASS within defined timelines for supported country operations.
• Achieve a 95% accuracy rate in COMPASS entries, ensuring consistency, completeness, and alignment with monitoring frameworks.
• Track and escalate data quality issues to the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer and relevant teams within five working days of their identification.
• Contribute to at least two regional monitoring reports annually, analyzing programme outcomes, challenges, and key findings.
• Provide inputs for quarterly updates on programme performance, highlighting trends and gaps across supported country operations.
• Ensure that climate-related indicators are monitored and included in reporting, capturing data on environmental pressures and their impact on displacement patterns and settlement conditions.
• Contribute to at least two Inter-Agency assessments or joint monitoring missions annually, supporting data validation and reporting processes.
• Provide inputs to Inter-Agency reports and performance updates, ensuring alignment with UNHCR’s priorities, particularly climate resilience, protection outcomes, and durable solutions.
• Assist in tracking joint progress toward regional goals, particularly in areas related to environmental factors and cross-sectoral coordination.
• Conduct at least three field missions annually to support country operations in implementing monitoring tools, validating data, and providing hands-on technical guidance.
• Submit field mission reports with findings and actionable recommendations to the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer within ten working days of mission completion.
• Document and disseminate two best practices or lessons from field-level monitoring annually for regional learning and improvement.
• Organize and deliver at least two training sessions annually on monitoring tools, reporting standards, and COMPASS functionalities for country teams and partners.
• Ensure at least 80% of participants report an improved understanding of monitoring frameworks and processes, measured through post-training feedback.
• Develop or update at least two guidance materials or tools to strengthen monitoring capacity across country operations.
• Work with the DIMA unit to align monitoring tools and frameworks with existing data systems and ensure smooth data flow for reporting.
• Verify the data quality submitted for monitoring outputs, ensuring that at least 90% of reported data meets agreed quality standards. Collaborate to address and close data gaps within five working days of detection.
• Track and document climate-related trends and indicators as part of monitoring frameworks, including data on displacement caused by resource scarcity, natural disasters, and settlement pressures. Contribute to at least one analytical brief annually on the intersection of environmental challenges and displacement trends.
  µProvide inputs for quarterly regional updates, ensuring that findings and recommendations are actionable and evidence-based.
• Assist in consolidating two thematic summaries or reports annually, focusing on progress, challenges, and lessons learned in key operational areas.
• Support the documentation of Inter-Agency and field-level monitoring achievements and challenges, ensuring regional knowledge-sharing.
  These measurable outputs and indicators will ensure the Assistant Monitoring Officer provides adequate technical support while remaining aligned with regional strategies and priorities. The performance will be monitored based on the quality, timeliness, and accuracy of the deliverables, with progress reviewed under the supervision of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer. The position requires flexibility to adapt to operational needs, particularly in thematic areas such as climate resilience, Inter-Agency coordination, and evidence-based reporting.

Qualifications and Experience

(List the individual contractor’s required education, work experience, expertise, and competencies. The listed education and experience should correspond with the level at which the contract is offered.)

The following qualifications and experience are required for the Assistant Monitoring Officer position, ensuring alignment with the level and responsibilities of the role:

Education

A university degree (equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree) in Social Sciences, Statistics, Economics, International Development, Political Science, Data Science, or a related field.

Work Experience

• A minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E), programme performance tracking, data analysis, or reporting, preferably in humanitarian or development settings.
• Experience in supporting the implementation of monitoring frameworks, including data collection, analysis, and reporting processes.
• Practical experience working with data automation tools or statistical programming for data management and analysis (e.g., R, Python).
• Experience in contributing to capacity-building initiatives such as training on monitoring tools, statistical analysis, and reporting systems.
• Prior exposure to working with international organizations, UN agencies, or NGOs is an asset.

Technical Expertise:

• Strong proficiency in statistical analysis and using tools such as R, SPSS, Stata, or Excel for data management and reporting.
• Experience automating monitoring processes and workflows using technical tools such as R scripts, dashboards, or similar automation solutions.
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, R Shiny, ggplot2) to translate data into clear and actionable insights.
• Familiarity with monitoring systems or platforms such as COMPASS or other results-based management tools.
• Strong understanding of data quality assurance processes, including validating and cleaning data to ensure reliability and accuracy.

Skills and Competencies

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends, gaps, and actionable recommendations.
• Technical Skills: Using programming tools (e.g., R, Python) and automation techniques to streamline data processes.
• Communication Skills: Excellent ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, in English and French (full proficiency in both languages is mandatory).
• Problem-solving: Proactive approach to addressing challenges in data processes, monitoring workflows, and reporting systems.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize activities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Coordination and Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders in a multicultural environment.
• Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), data visualization platforms, and statistical tools for reporting and analysis.

Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience working in the West and Central Africa region and familiarity with its humanitarian and operational context.
• Knowledge of Inter-Agency coordination processes, including joint monitoring and reporting frameworks.
  Experience with climate-related data analysis and integration into monitoring frameworks.
• Familiarity with automation tools for reporting and analysis to reduce manual workloads and improve efficiency.

These qualifications ensure the individual contractor brings a combination of monitoring expertise, statistical proficiency, automation skills, and technical capabilities. The role requires the ability to streamline data management processes, improve the quality of programme monitoring outputs, and effectively support decision-making under the guidance of the Senior Programme Monitoring Officer.

Standard Job Description

Assistant Programme Monitoring Officer

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships

The Assistant Programme Monitoring Officer may be based in HQ, field/regional bureau, reporting to and be guided by more senior program monitoring / programme staff and may supervise a small team of local staff. S/he may receive indirect guidance from other sections and units relevant to the country programme(s) or to global quality assurance standards. UNHCR’s Manual, UNHCR’s corporate and regional strategic priorities, operation plans and other relevant institutional rules and regulations will guide the work of the incumbent.

The Assistant Programme Monitoring Officer will support the monitoring of protection and solutions strategies and the coordination of harmonized monitoring approaches at all levels and throughout the UNHCR Operations Management Cycle. The incumbent will work in line with the overall UNHCR directions which crucially require working with partners, including with persons of concern, governmental institutions and the private sector, ensuring that programme monitoring is approached as per UNHCR’s Strategic Directions, Global Strategic Priorities (GSPs), Global Compact for Refugees (GCR), and corporate positions on SDGs.

The incumbent is expected to have contacts within the Organization and outside the duty station, as well as with partners and other stakeholders related to programme monitoring. The incumbent is expected to work in line with the multi-functional team (MFT) approach as defined within the Program Chapter, ensuring the participation of relevant stakeholders in all phases of the Program Management Cycle.

All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR’s core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties

• Support the development and implementation of UNHCR’s system for monitoring protection and solutions strategies and results (impact, outcomes, outputs) in cooperation with relevant teams
• Assist the development of Theories of Change and related Results Frameworks and the measurability of multi-year protection and solutions strategies and annual plans.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of monitoring plans across all implementation modalities (partnerships, direct implementation, and operational partners), ensuring consistency and coherence of UNHCR’s monitoring activities and ownership of the Multi-Functional Teams.
• Assist in setting up monitoring systems and indicator tracking, supporting teams on data collection methodologies and sources, age, gender and diversity aggregation and data reporting and sharing based on agreed protocols and standards, in close collaboration with evaluation, data and IM staff.
• Assist in coordinating to create coherence on monitoring standards, plans, tools, indicators and resources across UNHCR and project partners and ensure that monitoring actions are grounded in protection and solutions principles and approaches.
• Assist senior management on monitoring findings and possible course-correcting actions, keep track of management decisions and follow-up actions and communicate monitoring findings to key stakeholders.
• Assist in coordinating with partners and stakeholders to facilitate coherence of monitoring approaches and indicators across multi-partner initiatives and engage in UN fora on monitoring (UNSDCF, HRP, RRP etc.), ensuring coherence and avoiding gaps and overlaps.
• Support in training UNHCR and partner staff in applying UNHCR’s results-based management monitoring standards and procedures.
• Support processes to link monitoring to the operation’s evaluation and risk management plan.
• Contribute actively to innovative solutions for monitoring and to UNHCR’s global community of practice on monitoring, facilitating the exchange of lessons learned across countries and regions.
• Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).

Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Years of Experience / Degree Level

For P1/NOA 1 year relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or no experience with Graduate degree; or no experience with Doctorate degree

Field(s) of Education

Economics Business Administration Social Sciences or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
program/project management
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Relevant Job Experience

Essential

Demonstrated experience in programme monitoring including familiarization with the OMC and sound knowledge of Results Based-Management. Demonstrated experience in field operations, programme monitoring and sound knowledge on the centrality of protection in programming,

Desirable

Demonstrated experience in coordination within an inter-agency context and other actors, in a refugee or humanitarian context. Sound experience in program monitoring training and capacity building activities.

Functional Skills

• EL-Monitoring and Evaluation
• DM-Data Management
• PG-Programme Planning
• PG-UNHCR’s Programmes
• PG-Results-Based Management
• PG-Development and monitoring of programme assessments and surveys
• PG-Programme Management (programme cycles and reporting standards)
  (Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Language Requirements

• For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
• For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
• For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.

All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.

As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.

This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.

Additional Qualifications

Skills

DM-Data Management, EL-Monitoring and Evaluation, PG-Development and monitoring of programme assessments and surveys, PG-Programme Management (programme cycles and reporting standards), PG-Programme Planning, PG-Results-Based Management, PG-UNHCR’s Programmes

Education

Bachelor of Arts (BA): Data Science, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Economics, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Social Science

Certifications

Project Management

Work Experience

Other information

N/AThe English version is considered original and authoritative, translation to other language(s) serve the purpose of advertisement of local positions where applicable but are not considered as official translationsN/AThis position doesn’t require a functional clearance

Home-Based

No