Population Services International (PSI), is a network of locally rooted, globally connected organizations working to achieve consumer-powered healthcare — people-centered health systems that ensure quality, affordable care wherever and whenever it is needed. Our origins in sexual and reproductive health have grown into a broader mission. Today, we work with the public and private sectors as well as local communities, prioritizing people’s voice and choice and developing solutions to meet their essential health needs. Over the past five decades, we have helped push boundaries, break taboos, set trends, and develop innovative solutions to complex global health challenges. PSI uses innovative solutions and social marketing models to bring about lasting health impact to poor and vulnerable populations through its programs in over 45 countries around the world, the majority of them in sub-Saharan Africa**, including Kenya** (https://www.psi.org/).
Position: Short-term Research Assistant – Interviewer
Population Services International Regional Office Nairobi (PSI) is updating its database of short-term research consultants to be considered for upcoming exciting opportunities. Prequalified consultants will support a wide range of research projects under the guidance of Principal Investigators and Research Advisors, contributing to programs design, adaptation, and evaluation. PSI is currently conducting a family planning research study in Kakamega County. We are, therefore, looking to engage qualified and experienced short-term Research Assistants to field the study in the county.
Requirements
- A College Diploma or University Degree
- Fluency in English, Swahili, and a local language spoken in Kakamega County (specifically ability to write, read, and speak with fluency in Idakho, or Isukha, or Tsotso dialects)
- Strong interviewers’ and moderation experience (1-2 years) – in health-oriented research studies (preferred). Experience in sexual and reproductive health quantitative or/and qualitative research studies (desired)
- Ability to communicate effectively with a range of research participants – including senior government officers and non-state partners, county health management teams, and community members.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
- Familiarity with the study settings (Kakamega County). Current resident candidates are desired.
- Proven experience using electronic data collection platforms, particularly ODK or SurveyCTO platforms
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines with excellent attention to detail and quality.
- Previous experience working with NGOs or a reputable research organization/institution.
- Translation and transcribing experience are an advantage.
*Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Performance Areas
- Availability to attend in-person fieldwork training for the entire designated period. Training will be held centrally in Nairobi.
- Support the review of study instruments, including the content, terminologies, and quality translation.
- Sign data confidentiality agreement and comply with stipulations.
- Support study advocacy at the county, sub-county, health facility, and community levels.
- Maintain study work plan and interview schedules.
- Conduct quality screening and interviews for the assigned quota whilst adhering to the approved procedures – including sampling and eligibility screening.
- Fully comply with the ethics standards for research with human subjects – including informed consenting/assenting, data privacy, and confidentiality, etc.
- Accurately probe and capture respondent responses using the approved interview guides other data capture materials.
- Document informed consent/assent
- Manage study data (labelling, storage, safety, and confidentiality), informed consent forms and other study materials, and maintain equipment inventory as per the approved protocol.
- Debrief regularly with the project management staff to share field updates.
- Submit progress reports, including narrative and verifiable field expenses, using prescribed templates.
Availability and timelines
Selected candidates will be notified of the planned study at least one week prior to engagement.
Cost and Compensation
Consultants will be paid a daily rate that will be specified in the engagement contract.
Field-related expenses will be incurred by the project.
