Plan International Hiring Research Assistants 2026 — Monthly Salary Included. Apply for Plan International research and MERL roles 2026 and gain experience in monitoring, evaluation, research, and community development projects.
Overview
Plan International is currently recruiting for research and monitoring-related positions under its Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) initiatives in 2026.
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 Hiring Research Assistants 2026 — Monthly Salary Included
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: Competitive salary package included
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 organization offers:
- Competitive compensation package
- Flexible work arrangements
- Professional development opportunities
- Collaborative work environment
How to Apply
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
Submit applications 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?
Yes, the role includes a competitive salary package.
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
The Plan International Research and MERL opportunities for 2026 are excellent for professionals seeking careers in:
- Monitoring & evaluation
- Research
- Education programmes
- International development
For candidates passionate about community impact and evidence-based programming, this role offers meaningful experience within a respected global NGO.
Keywords
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