Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Gaborone, BotswanaThe Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will play a central role in overseeing the monitoring and evaluation functions of the “Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Botswana’s Communal Rangelands” Project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This position is critical to tracking progress toward project goals, particularly in carbon sequestration, rangeland restoration, and climate resilience. They will lead the design and implementation of systems to measure project performance, ensure data integrity, contribute to donor reporting, and support adaptive management through learning.

The position reports directly to the Deputy Chief of Party and works closely with technical leads, implementing partners, and community stakeholders. The M&E Specialist will provide thorough and actionable guidance on project-related MEAL matters specific to the project goals, Theory of Change, Logframe, results framework, and critical project needs related to the ability to accurately and reliably generate project-specific information to support reporting obligations to the donor (GCF). This includes, but is not restricted to:

GHG reduction estimates/calculations, tracking relevant indicators, methodologies, and measurement approaches, as well as reporting and verification systems, as articulated in the project proposal (or other project documents). They will ensure that data-driven insights inform project planning, decision-making, and reporting obligations. ResponsibilitiesMonitoring and Evaluation (M&E): Provide leadership on the development of a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system for the project. Provide leadership and direction on M&E to ensure the project achieves its goals and corresponding objectives, and targets.

Lead the development and implementation of the Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) and MEL frameworks aligned with the project’s Theory of Change and GCF indicators. Develop and oversee data flow patterns for the project, to ensure timely data collection and reporting. Ensure accurate and timely collection of routine and periodic data for donor and internal reporting. Design and maintain systems for data flow and data quality assurance, including data verification, audits, and dashboards. Collaborate with technical teams to ensure indicators reflect project priorities (GHG reduction, carbon sequestration, resilience, etc. ).

Collaborate with the DCoP to plan and execute project evaluations, ensuring they align with project goals and donor (GCF) expectations. In collaboration with the DCOP, ensure integration across the three components of the project. Impact Assessment And LearningDevelop and apply tools and methodologies to assess project outcomes, with a focus on ecosystem health, climate resilience, and GHG mitigation. Analyze project data to generate evidence on what works and share learnings to inform adaptation and scaling. Coordinate and conduct baseline, midterm, and endline evaluations, and other studies as needed. Contribute to quarterly and annual progress reports with synthesized MEAL findings.

Lead strategic collaboration activities with key stakeholders to learn from project data and adapt interventions as appropriate. Lead efforts to utilize training monitoring systems to track and monitor trainers and participants at training events to facilitate follow-up and recordkeeping. Use data to contribute towards strategic decision-making and project planning with project leadership. Work collaboratively with the GIS Senior Coordinator to ensure alignment between the MEAL and the Project information system. Ensure data quality through data verification procedures, including routine data quality audits during the project lifecycle.

Lead the analysis of project data to extract insights and inform strategic decisions for project leadership. Reporting And Donor ComplianceEnsure compliance with GCF M&E requirements and performance indicators. Contribute to donor reporting by producing high-quality, evidence-based content that demonstrates project progress and impact.

Support external audits, third-party evaluations, and verification processes related to GHG accounting and carbon metricsStakeholder Engagement And Capacity BuildingProvide M&E training and capacity support to project staff, partners, and community stakeholdersPromote a culture of data use and continuous learning within the project teamRepresent the MEAL function in project review meetings and donor engagementsStrategic Planning And Knowledge SharingParticipate in annual work planning and strategy sessions to ensure integration of MEAL insightsDocument lessons learned and contribute to the development of knowledge products, toolkits, and case studiesLiaise with regional and global MEAL counterparts to align with CI-wide best practices.

WORKING CONDITIONSFrequent travel to project sitesFieldwork in remote locations under varying weather and logistical conditions. May require extended hours during reporting cycles or evaluations. Supporting the staff in the implementation of other activities outside of its main responsibilities, if needed. This role will be a 3-year fixed-term assignment. QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree and/or commensurate experience in Environmental Science, Development Studies, Economics, Climate Policy, M&E, or related fields. 5 to 7 years of experience in M&E design and implementation in international development or conservation. Experience with GCF-funded projects is an added advantage. Expertise in developing and managing M&E systems.

Proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Strong analytical skills with experience in M&E systems. Strong experience working with donor-funded projects, preferably GCF or multilateral climate funds. Proven ability to understand, interpret, and apply technical and scientific information and data to achieve tangible results. Proficiency in statistical analysis tools and database management (e. g. , Excel, STATA, R, Power BI). Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights. Excellent organization and time management skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. PreferredAdvanced degree.

Experience working with communal or rangeland-based livelihoods and ecosystem restoration programs. Familiarity with environmental monitoring. Knowledge of Botswana’s policy frameworks related to climate adaptation, communal land, or sustainable agriculture. Cultural sensitivity and the ability to respect and work well with people from different backgrounds and disciplines. Team player able to work effectively in a multicultural environment. To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter. Application Deadline: September 14, 2025 (11: 49 PM EST)See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HEREConservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals.

We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.