Job Description

PDIA Officer – Liberia Education Systems Strengthening Activity

FHI 360 is a global development organization, with a rigorous, evidence-based approach to human development. Our team of professionals includes experts in health, nutrition, education, economic development, civil society, environment, and research. FHI 360 operates from 70 offices with 4400 employees in the United States and around the world. Our commitment to partnerships at all levels and our multi-disciplinary approach allows us to have a lasting impact on the people, communities and countries we serve by improving the lives of millions of them. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of PDIA (Problem Driven Iterative Adaptation) Approach Officer for the USAID funded Liberia Education Systems Strengthening Activity (the Activity). This position will be based in Monrovia.

Project description

The 5-year Liberia Education Systems Strengthening Activity works in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to address system-wide constraints and increase the MOE’s capacity to provide decentralized and inclusive education, monitor progress, and sustain improved learning outcomes for all children and youth. The activity will support the MOE to improve education data systems, resource management, and accountability across Montserrado, Margibi, Lofa, Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa counties. The activity will target education officials and professionals at the central, county, district, and school level with its capacity development interventions with the end goal of improving education outcomes for children and youth.

Job Summary

PDIAOfficer – co-located in County Education Offices (CEOs)

PDIA Process Responsibilities

The problem driven iterative adaptation approach (PDIA) provides a framework for solving complex problems. It involves finding out what the problem is, trying different solutions, learning from the results, and changing the solutions as needed. PDIA facilitates a flexible process that adapts to the local context and needs. The PDIA Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Assist County Education Officers (CEOs) to implement and institutionalize the PDIA process in their offices, including:
• Support to CEOs to put together request for PDIA Innovation Fund.

Support CEOs with the following steps to coordinate the PDIA cycle:

▪ Develop a workplan for the cycle.

▪ Coordinate and facilitate regular PDIA task team meetings.

▪ Lead problem analysis (PDIA Step 1, in early years).

▪ Coordinate with MEL Officers to support the facilitation of PDIA steps 2-6.

• Serve in the role of a coach to a PDIA team:

o Facilitate weekly reflections on team’s problem, learning and next steps.

o Support team efforts to build authorization.

o Provide continuous capacity development support.

o Provide analytical support to teams.

o Facilitate teamwork and exchange.

o Document the PDIA process.

• Support capacity development of CEOs to conduct PDIA independently and institutionalize PDIA as a replicable problem-solving process through which they can address future challenges. • Assist CEOs to build successful PDIA solutions into County Education Plans (annually).

GPI Responsibilities

The Governance Performance Index (GPI) is a tool that will be used to assess Government capacity and performance at both the county and district level in 8 key areas: i) results ii) standards iii) service delivery iv) coordination v) constituents vi) learning vii) financial stewardship viii) environmental stewardship. The PDIA Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Support the implementation of the GPI at the CEO and in each of the DEOs within the county (full GPI @ baseline, midline and endline & rapid bi-annual GPI).
• Support the development and implementation of capacity building strategies and County Education Plans for each office based on GPI results.
• Facilitate dialogue and feedback sessions with CEOs and other stakeholders to share GPI findings and recommendations.

Position Reports to: County Team Lead

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher (Master’s degree is an advantage) in education, public administration, social sciences or related field. At least three years of experience (county experience an asset) in implementing or supporting governance or capacity development programs in education or other sectors.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in applying PDIA or similar adaptive management approaches.
• Experience in conducting surveys or assessments using quantitative or qualitative methods.
• Strong facilitation and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Cross-cultural awareness and capabilities.
• Ability to work with high-level government officials.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Applicants must be prepared to work in any of the six counties. Indigenes of each of the six counties are encouraged to apply against their counties.

FHI 360 is an employer with equal opportunity and affirmative action. FHI 360 is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or veteran status in policies, programs, or activities.