Community Researcher (Nigeria-based, 6 weeks)

Edo State, Nigeria.

6 week contract – March 13 to April 26, 2013.

Reboot seeks researchers for a governance program in Nigeria, focused on improving the accountability of public financial management. The research component will focus on understanding social and cultural dynamics that impact communities’ ability to advocate for its interests among a range of stakeholders.

The researchers will be responsible for conducting field research in Edo State, with the potential for future work in Rivers State based on performance. Research methods will be qualitative and, specifically, ethnographic. Activities will include community outreach, stakeholder engagement, qualitative research, analyzing and synthesizing research, and documenting findings.

This is a short-term assignment that will include 6 weeks of full-time work.

Responsibilities:

• Support the content and operational planning for community research activities in collaboration with Reboot staff.
• Coordinate research activities and engagements in selected communities around topics related to community power dynamics, institutional relationships, and community governance.
• Conduct qualitative research using methods such as semi-structured depth interviews, focus group interviews, and participant observation.
• Prepare detailed notes and documentation of the field research.
• Analyze collected data using structured synthesis exercises and techniques.
• Manage field research logistics including transport and communications.

Qualifications:

• At least 3 years experience conducting qualitative research with low-income communities. A background in anthropology, sociology, social work, community development, and/or journalism strongly preferred.
• Available for full-time work in Edo State from March 13 to April 26. (Candidates with full-time availability for similar work in Rivers State in May and June are preferred. )
• Have deep familiarity with Edo State, and have the interest in and ability to travel in the state. Experience with Rivers State also preferred.
• Speak and write English at an advanced level.
• Fluent in Pidgin, and ideally conversant in one or more local dialects (eg. Ebira, Edo, Esan and Okpamheri).
• Curious, street-smart, and able to operate in a wide variety of social contexts. Must be sensitive, empathetic, and able to interact well with communities from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Have intermediate computer skills, and proficient in the use of word processing and Internet software applications.

No prior background in public financial management, community development, or design necessary, though would be a plus.

To Apply:

All applications should include a recent CV, a writing sample, and a letter of intent describing the applicant’s interest in working with Reboot, his/her professional background as relevant to the assignment, and details of his/her experience working in Edo State. Applications must also include a proposed daily rate, inclusive of all costs for working in Benin City, or they will not be considered.

All applications should be sent to careers.nigeria AT thereboot DOT org by March 6, 2013.

Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants must be available for an in-person interview in Benin City during the week commencing March 4, 2013.