Research Consultant (International Development Research)

Job Description

Research Consultant - International Development Research
High Wycombe, Bucks (30 min. commute from London)
Economic Development Initiatives (EDI) Ltd is a research consultancy working in international development and has offices based in both Tanzania and the UK.  EDI works with high profile development clients such as the World Bank, National Governments, Millennium Challenge Corporation etc, in co-developing and implementing large scale socio-economic surveys (www.edi-africa.com).  We have also developed a leading data-collection software product, surveybe™, for conducting large scale international development surveys, and we support clients all over the world with the preparation and implementation of surveys on CAPI technology using this software (www.surveybe.com).
EDI now seeks a Research Consultant to work both with our Tanzania team in the running of high-value large-scale surveys, as well supporting our external Surveybe clients in the preparation and implementation of their own research surveys on mobile technology using the Surveybe software.
As a Research Consultant, you will:

• Work with our Tanzanian team to conceptualize and set-up surveys, including configuring questionnaires using the surveybe software, training of our field teams, piloting/testing the survey, setting up data processing and quality control procedures, and writing manuals
• Monitor the field progress and incoming data, and provide feedback to the team
• Prepare final data sets for client delivery and assist in writing reports
• Use your survey expertise to support our Surveybe clients as they move from paper based questionnaires to electronic questionnaires (PAPI to CAPI),
• Conduct remote (online) and on-site training sessions for survey and field teams to build client capacity to configure and manage their own surveys using the software.
• Guide clients through the design and configuration of their project specific questionnaires in surveybe, and advise on best data model/structure of their survey
• Support clients in managing survey changes and incoming data throughout the research project lifecycle.
• Assist project leaders in both Tanzania and UK (surveybe) related tasks when required.

This exciting role will provide the opportunity for significant international travel to Tanzania and other developing countries, often in remote areas.
A successful applicant should be a recent Master’s graduate in the Social Sciences, International Development, Statistics, Economics, Development Economics or similar, and ideally have 1-2 years post-graduate experience in the field of international development research.
In addition, the applicant must possess:

• Experience in socio-economic research design
• Experience in analysis of data from developing countries
• An excellent knowledge of statistical analysis computer programmes (such as STATA or SPSS) and understanding of data structure
• Knowledge of SQL, or otherwise the ability and enthusiasm to learn and apply it
• An enthusiasm for coding, writing ‘stata do’ files and setting up electronic questionnaires
• Experience of establishing strong working relationships with colleagues from different functions and cultures, and working with teams from a distance
• Demonstrated experience of an organised and flexible approach to managing and prioritising multiple concurrent projects and activities in a fast paced environment with tight deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal and consultative skills, including the ability to communicate, present, negotiate and influence a variety of audiences
• A strong attention to detail
• Highly proficient in standard Microsoft software programmes and an overall proficiency and comfort with working with technology
• Enthusiasm for international travel to Tanzania and other developing countries
• Willingness to travel on short notice and on a flexible time basis
• Willingness to work flexible hours to meet client deadlines
• Ability to work independently

The following skills and experience would be advantageous:

• Experience of data collection in developing countries
• Experience conducting training and/or working in a client facing role
• Familiarity with CAPI fieldwork methodology
• Training in research methodology

Working arrangement:
The position is full time and the ideal candidate would be based at EDI’s offices in High Wycombe (town centre), an easy commute from central London.  International travel will be required.  EDI are also willing to explore the options of Research Consultants being predominantly based in either its Tanzania office, or working remotely from other locations. 
To apply please send your CV and covering letter to vacancies@surveybe.com by 09.00 am (GMT) on 17^th December 2012.  Please make sure you include the title of the post you are applying for in the email subject.  Applications received after this date WILL be considered for similar upcoming vacancies.