Survey Managers – Consultant

Organization: International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Location: Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Contract Type: Consultancy

Application Deadline: Not specified

Introduction

High-quality evidence is essential for improving humanitarian nutrition programs, especially in fragile and conflict-affected settings. This consultancy role supports critical research aimed at strengthening community-based management of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) among vulnerable children. By ensuring rigorous data collection and field coordination, the Survey Managers will contribute directly to improving nutrition service delivery and informing future policy and program scale-up. This opportunity is ideal for experienced research and field professionals passionate about nutrition, public health, and humanitarian impact.

Job Summary

The Survey Managers (Consultants) will oversee and coordinate field-level data collection for a multi-component research study assessing the feasibility, acceptability, cost, and stakeholder priorities of the Tom Brown Targeted Supplementary Feeding Programme (TSFP) in Borno State. The role ensures that qualitative and economic data are collected accurately, ethically, and in line with approved research protocols. Successful consultants will support evidence generation to guide nutrition programming and decision-making in humanitarian contexts.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage all field survey activities across selected LGAs in Borno State.
• Supervise and support data collectors conducting interviews, FGDs, and cost-related data collection.
• Ensure adherence to approved research methodologies, ethical standards, and consent procedures.
• Support the implementation of qualitative interviews with caregivers, lead mothers, health workers, government officials, and partner organizations.
• Oversee data collection for feasibility, acceptability, economic evaluation, and stakeholder values sub-studies.
• Ensure accurate recording, transcription, translation, and secure storage of qualitative data.
• Liaise with IRC program teams, partners, and community stakeholders to facilitate smooth field operations.
• Monitor data quality in real time and resolve field challenges promptly.
• Support documentation of lessons learned, challenges, and contextual insights from the field.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong experience in managing field-based research or surveys in humanitarian or development settings.
• Solid understanding of qualitative research methods, including KIIs and FGDs.
• Ability to coordinate multiple data collection teams simultaneously.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills in complex environments.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for engagement with diverse stakeholders.
• High attention to detail and commitment to data quality and research ethics.
• Ability to work effectively in insecure or resource-constrained settings.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc/HND) in Public Health, Nutrition, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field.
• Proven experience supporting or managing research, surveys, or assessments, preferably in nutrition or health programs.
• Prior experience working in northeast Nigeria or similar humanitarian contexts is an advantage.
• Familiarity with community-based nutrition programs and humanitarian coordination structures is desirable.

Why This Role Is Important

This consultancy supports critical learning on alternative approaches to treating moderate acute malnutrition using locally produced, culturally appropriate food solutions. The findings will inform government, donor, and partner decisions on scaling sustainable nutrition interventions. Your contribution will help shape future programming that improves child survival and community resilience.

Benefits of Applying

• Opportunity to contribute to high-impact humanitarian nutrition research.
• Engagement with a globally respected humanitarian organization and diverse partners.
• Professional exposure to mixed-methods research in emergency settings.
• Meaningful contribution to evidence-based policy and program design.

Salary Expectations

Competitive, based on consultancy scope, experience, and duration.

About the Organization

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading global humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people affected by conflict, disaster, and displacement survive and recover. Since its establishment in 1933, the IRC has combined emergency response with long-term development solutions to support vulnerable populations. Operating in over 40 countries, the organization focuses on health, nutrition, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC’s work is grounded in research, accountability, and partnerships that strengthen local systems and improve lives.

Location, Deadline & How to Apply

• Location: Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
• Application Deadline: Not specified
• How to Apply: Interested and qualified candidates should submit their application through the International Rescue Committee’s official Workday recruitment portal.

Tips for Applicants

• Highlight experience managing field research or surveys in humanitarian settings.
• Demonstrate familiarity with qualitative data collection and community engagement.
• Emphasize experience working with nutrition, health, or M&E teams.
• Showcase ability to manage teams and maintain data quality in challenging contexts.

This consultancy is well-suited for professionals seeking to contribute to evidence-driven humanitarian nutrition programming in northeast Nigeria.