The Research Assistants will be responsible for collecting accurate and reliable data from targeted respondents using structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions or other data collection methods as directed by the Field Supervisor. This role requires individuals with strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in diverse environments. Candidates should be willing and able to travel upcountry on short notice.

Responsibilities

Data Collection

• Locate and identify study participants as per the field plan.
• Conduct interviews and/or administer structured questionnaires and record responses accurately.
• Capture collected data into provided electronic devices or manual forms as instructed.
• Ensure that all data collected is complete, accurate, and meets the project’s standards.

Stakeholder Engagement  

• Liaise with relevant local authorities to obtain relevant administrative clearance for data collection.
• Explain the purpose of the survey/study to respondents and ensure their understanding and cooperation.

Compliance and Ethics  

• Adhere to ethical standards in data collection, ensuring respondent confidentiality and consent.
• Follow all fieldwork protocols and project guidelines strictly.

Quality Assurance

• Review and cross-check collected data for accuracy and completeness.
• Make necessary corrections or follow-up visits if required to ensure data quality.
• Report daily to the Field Supervisor on progress, challenges, and any incidents encountered during fieldwork.

Other Duties

• Assist in pre-survey activities such as mapping, listing, and stakeholder engagement.
• Participate in training sessions and debriefings as required.
• Perform any other related duties assigned by the Field Supervisor. 

Qualifications

Education

•  A bachelor's degree in social sciences, economics, development studies, gender studies, statistics, or related fields is preferred.
• A diploma in a relevant discipline with at least 5 years of field experience will be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.

Experience

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience of conducting individual, household or facility interviews.
• Familiarity with mobile data collection applications such as Survey Solutions, KOBO Collect, ODK.
• Experience in qualitative data collection is an added advantage.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Local language proficiency is a MUST in any of the following languages (Madi, Lugbara, Aringa, Kakwa, Kuku, Pojulu, Arabic, Swahili)
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data recording.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel to and work in remote areas on short notice.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours depending on the fieldwork schedule.