UNDP Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning Opportunity: Estimated Salary US$12,300–US$16,600/Month

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme is recruiting a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Specialist for the Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific (Gov4Res) Project. The post is based in Suva, Fiji, at IPSA-10 level under an International Personnel Service Agreement, with a one-year contract. The vacancy reference is Job Identification 35883.

Gov4Res works with Pacific governments to strengthen governance systems and promote risk-informed, resilient development. It is now in Phase 2 and operates in Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, focusing on governance that supports gender- and socially inclusive resilient development.

What the role involves

The specialist works under the direct supervision of the Gov4Res Strategy, Innovation and Learning Specialist at the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji and works closely with the Gov4Res MEL Analyst. Main tasks include developing and reviewing the Phase 2 MEL approach, setting up country outcome mapping, adapting data collection tools, identifying indicators and integrating Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) into MEL systems.

The specialist also gives technical assistance to partner countries, mentors new MEL staff, supports culturally contextual MEL practices and facilitates learning sessions. Research duties include undertaking and updating Political Economy Analysis for the six countries to inform programming, and presenting the Gov4Res MEL approach at national, regional and international forums.

Requirements

Applicants need an advanced degree in monitoring, evaluation and learning, research, international development, social sciences or a related field. With a master's degree, at least five years of relevant experience is needed; with a bachelor's degree, seven years. Experience in developing-country contexts, MEL frameworks, capacity building, GEDSI integration, Pacific work and cross-cultural settings is expected. Fluency in English is required, another UN language is desirable and a Pacific Island language is an asset.

Key dates

Applications close on August 15, 2026, at 5:59 AM.