Senior Associate, Survey Programming (SurveyCTO)

KEY

Responsibilities

• Survey Design & Programming (35%)
• Translate paper-based/draft instruments into fully-programmed, logic-driven digital forms; primarily in SurveyCTO with robust skip patterns, relevance/constraint logic, validations, calculations, case management, and multi-language versions.
• Design forms for offline data collection in low-connectivity field environments (repeat groups, roster/loop structures, geopoint/media capture), and translate program indicators into precise, coded survey questions while working with MERL and Programs teams.
• Skilled in questionnaire design using tools such as Google Forms, particularly for rapid surveys and qualitative data collection.
• Data Quality, Testing & Piloting (20%)
• Conduct rigorous dummy-data testing, dry runs, and piloting of every form before deployment; build data-quality checks (range, consistency, duplicate, GPS/time) within the survey and at data review.
• Troubleshoot and resolve form- and server-level errors quickly during active data collection to minimize disruption to fieldwork.
• Indicator Alignment & MERL/Programs Collaboration (15%)
• Work with the Business Analytics Manager, MERL, and Programs teams to clarify indicator definitions and ensure they are correctly operationalized in survey tools; maintain codebooks, data dictionaries, and naming conventions.
• Support survey sampling logic and case assignment design where relevant (e.g., CommCare case management for longitudinal/beneficiary tracking).
• Server & Platform Administration (15%)
• Manage SurveyCTO server console(s) form deployment/versioning, user/role management, dataset publishing, server-side data checks, and monitor data collection dashboards in real time, flagging anomalies to field teams.
• Maintain secure including controlled access to forms, organized form/dataset repositories and support integration of survey data into downstream reporting and analytics pipelines.
• Training, Documentation & Continuous Improvement (10%)
• Train Programs/MERL staff on tool usage and troubleshooting; maintain documentation of survey logic, version histories, and SOPs.
• Stay current with SurveyCTO best practices and recommend improvements to tools and workflows.
• Analytics Support (5%)
• Support the Analytics & Research team with data cleaning, analysis, and reporting using Excel, Stata, Python, R, or similar tools to support program learning and decision-making.

Requirements

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Education

Bachelor’s degree required; a degree in Statistics, Computer Science, IT, Data Science, M&E, or Social Sciences will be highly considered.

Experience

• 4+ years in survey programming/digital data collection, ideally within an M&E, research, or international development context.
• Survey Platforms:
• coding surveys in SurveyCTO strongly preferred; candidates with ODK, KoBoToolbox, or CommCare
• are also encouraged to apply.
• Technical Skills: Strong command of form logic (relevance, constraints, calculations), XLSForm structure, repeat groups/case management, and multi-language form design.
• Data Handling: Proficiency in Excel/data-cleaning tools; ability to export, review, and quality-check datasets from digital surveys.
• Data Analysis: Basic to advanced skills in data analysis using tools such as Excel, Stata, Python, R – among others
• MERL Literacy: Working understanding of indicators, logframes/results frameworks, Theory of Change (TOC), and how survey design affects downstream data quality.
• Attention to Detail: A meticulous, quality-first approach to form testing, logic-checking, and troubleshooting under field deadlines.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work closely with MERL and Programs teams including remote/cross-country teams.
• Languages: Fluency in English required; French is an added advantage given our operations in Chad.
• Key competencies:
• We are looking for someone who:
• Instills Trust – Follows through on commitments, builds credibility by being direct and truthful, and shows genuine care for staff members.
• Acts with Courage – Steps up to address difficult issues and speaks openly with bravery; takes the initiative to pursue new opportunities; takes full ownership of own work
• Makes Informed Decisions – Seeks relevant data and input when needed, takes appropriate action within their area of responsibility, and knows when to escalate.

Benefits

• WHAT YOU’LL GET
• This role is inside a high-growth, mission-driven social enterprise. By joining, you’ll access:
• Meaningful work that directly contributes to sustainable livelihoods and job creation across East and Central Africa.
• Competitive salary, and potential Performance-based bonus
• Incredible company culture, with opportunities for learning and growth
• Diverse colleagues across the region, and policies that demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion
• A dynamic and entrepreneurial team environment committed to innovation and social impact
• Health insurance for self and family
• Staff savings and provident fund negotiated bank rates for long-term employees
• Generous annual leave, parental leave, and sabbatical options.