Status update — 1 November 2026: This archived article concerns the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer role for the ECCD Acceleration Program in Cotabato City. It is not a research assistant vacancy. We could not confirm that applications for this specific role remain open. The earlier headline’s monthly-salary claim was not verified and has been removed. The role and project details below are retained as historical information, not a current vacancy announcement. Check the original official listing before relying on its availability or terms.
Plan International MERL Officer Role: Archived Cotabato Opportunity. Historical information about the Cotabato ECCD MERL Officer role; current application availability is unconfirmed.
Overview
This archived article describes a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer role associated with Plan International’s Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) initiatives. It does not establish that recruitment remains open.
These opportunities are ideal for graduates and professionals interested in:
- Research
- Monitoring & evaluation
- Community development
- Education programmes
- Humanitarian and NGO work
The organization is implementing a major ECCD programme supported by UNICEF in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Philippines.
Plan International MERL Officer Role: Archived Cotabato Opportunity
Position Summary
- Role: Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer
- Organization: Plan International
- Location: Cotabato City
- Contract Type: Project-based (until March 2027)
- Work Arrangement: Flexible working arrangements
- Compensation: Current salary terms have not been verified; no amount or payment frequency is confirmed here.
About the Project
The ECCD Acceleration Program aims to improve access to quality early childhood education for children aged 3–4 years across several provinces and cities in BARMM.
Project areas include:
- Maguindanao del Norte
- Maguindanao del Sur
- Cotabato City
- Lanao del Sur
- Basilan
- Tawi-Tawi
- Sulu
Key Responsibilities
Successful candidates will support:
- Monitoring and evaluation systems
- Research and learning processes
- Data collection and reporting
- Capacity building and training
- Knowledge management
Key duties include:
1. Data & Research Management
- Maintain project databases
- Analyze programme data
- Support evidence-based decision-making
2. Monitoring & Evaluation
- Implement PMERL systems
- Track project performance
- Prepare reports and learning products
3. Training & Capacity Building
- Train project staff and partners
- Facilitate participatory programme reviews
4. Documentation & Learning
- Document best practices
- Share lessons learned and innovations
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants should have:
1. Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in fields such as:
- Development Communication
- Social Science
- Social Work
- Community Development
- Statistics
- Related disciplines
Advanced degrees are an advantage.
2. Relevant Experience
- At least 3 years of experience in research or community development projects.
Experience in:
- Education projects
- ECCD programmes
- Participatory research
is considered an advantage.
3. Technical Skills
Strong knowledge in:
- Monitoring & Evaluation (MERL)
- Programme management
- Data analysis
- Reporting
- Community engagement
4. Communication Skills
- Strong written and oral communication abilities
- Ability to work with diverse communities
Why Work With Plan International?
1. International NGO Experience
Gain professional exposure with a globally recognized humanitarian organization.
2. Community Impact
Support projects improving education outcomes for children.
3. Professional Growth
Develop skills in:
- Research
- Monitoring & evaluation
- Project management
- Development programming
4. Inclusive Workplace
Plan International promotes:
- Gender equality
- Diversity
- Inclusion
- Child safeguarding
Benefits
The original article described the following benefits; these have not been reverified as current terms:
- Compensation terms require confirmation from the official employer
- Flexible work arrangements
- Professional development opportunities
- Collaborative work environment
Historical Application Information
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Applicants typically need:
- Updated CV
- Cover letter
- Academic certificates
Step 2: Highlight Relevant Experience
Focus on:
- Research skills
- Data analysis
- Community engagement
- Monitoring & evaluation work
Step 3: Apply Through Official Portal
Check the original listing and its current status via Plan International’s careers platform.
Tips for Strong Applications
- Demonstrate experience with community-based projects
- Highlight technical and analytical skills
- Show commitment to child rights and development work
- Tailor your CV to the MERL role
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a paid position?
The earlier article described compensation, but a salary amount, payment frequency and current offer could not be verified. Do not rely on the former monthly-salary headline.
Where is the position located?
Cotabato City.
Is prior NGO experience required?
Relevant development or research experience is preferred.
How long is the contract?
Until March 2027.
Does Plan International support diversity?
Yes, strongly.
Final Thoughts
This archived MERL role illustrates work relevant to professionals interested in:
- Monitoring & evaluation
- Research
- Education programmes
- International development
Current availability of this particular Cotabato vacancy is unconfirmed. Consult the official employer’s listing rather than treating this archived article as an invitation to apply.
Keywords
Plan International jobs 2026, archived Cotabato MERL role, MERL officer jobs, monitoring and evaluation jobs, NGO careers 2026, Plan International careers, humanitarian jobs, education project jobs
