Information Systems & Data Management Officer

5 hours ago

Feed the Children · Lilongwe, Malawi

Listing expires November 22, 2026

Summary:

The Information Systems & Data Management Officer is responsible for strengthening the organisation’s programme data systems and digital data management capabilities. The role leads the configuration and maintenance of DHIS2 and digital data collection platforms, supports database management and GIS analysis, develops dashboards and data visualizations, and promotes data quality, integrity, security and use. Working closely with programme and Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) teams, the Officer helps ensure that reliable, timely and accessible data informs programme planning, monitoring, reporting and decision-making. General ICT support is not a core function and, where required, is limited to a maximum of 10% of the role and to issues directly affecting programme data systems.

Working Relationships:

The Officer works closely with programme teams, MEAL colleagues, field staff and relevant regional or global technical colleagues. The role coordinates with designated ICT personnel or service providers for general ICT infrastructure and support outside the limited scope defined in this job description.

Key Responsibilities:

A. Data Systems Management and Development

  • Design, configure, maintain and improve databases and systems used to store, manage and analyse programme data.
  • Develop and maintain digital data collection forms, workflows and applications using platforms such as KoboToolbox, CommCare and DHIS2 Mobile, as relevant to programme needs.
  • Manage DHIS2 configuration and maintenance, including metadata, organisation units, data elements, indicators, datasets, validation rules, user roles and dashboards.
  • Work with programme and MEAL teams to translate reporting and monitoring requirements into practical data system solutions.
  • Support appropriate integration and interoperability between DHIS2, digital data collection platforms, GIS tools and other approved programme systems.
  • Maintain clear documentation of system configurations, data definitions, workflows, changes and technical procedures.

B. Data Quality, Governance and Protection

  • Develop and implement data collection standards, protocols, validation rules and quality assurance procedures.
  • Conduct routine data quality checks, identify gaps or anomalies, coordinate corrective action with relevant teams and document recurring issues.
  • Promote completeness, accuracy, consistency, timeliness and appropriate use of programme data across implementation areas.
  • Support data cleaning, consolidation and preparation for analysis and reporting, maintaining traceability and appropriate version control.
  • Apply organisational policies and applicable requirements for data privacy, confidentiality, access control, retention and secure handling of information.
  • Maintain appropriate data backup and recovery arrangements for systems under the role’s responsibility, in coordination with designated ICT or system administrators where necessary.

C. Data Analysis, Visualization and Reporting

  • Develop and maintain automated dashboards, visualizations and routine reports using Power BI, Tableau or comparable tools.
  • Analyse programme data to identify trends, performance gaps, outliers and findings relevant to programme implementation and management decisions.
  • Support teams to define and interpret indicators and ensure that calculations and reporting outputs are consistent and clearly documented.
  • Produce accurate, user-friendly data summaries and visual products for programme reviews, planning, monitoring and reporting.
  • Work with programme and MEAL colleagues to improve the accessibility and practical use of data by technical and non-technical users.

D. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

  • Develop and maintain GIS datasets and spatial databases relevant to programme implementation and monitoring.
  • Conduct spatial analysis and prepare thematic maps to support programme planning, resource allocation, coverage analysis and monitoring.
  • Integrate geographic information with DHIS2 and other approved programme data systems where appropriate.
  • Apply consistent standards for geographic data management, documentation, accuracy and presentation.

E. Capacity Building and User Support

  • Train and coach programme, MEAL and field staff in the use of DHIS2, digital data collection platforms, dashboards and GIS outputs.
  • Develop user guides, standard operating procedures and training materials for data systems and reporting processes.
  • Provide technical guidance to users on data entry, validation, analysis and interpretation, adapting explanations to different levels of technical ability.
  • Support field teams to resolve issues with mobile data collection devices and applications when these directly affect programme data collection or submission.
  • Gather user feedback and identify opportunities to improve system usability, adoption and data workflows.

F. System Improvement and Innovation

  • Identify opportunities to simplify data workflows, automate routine processes and reduce duplication or manual handling.
  • Assess and recommend improvements to data systems and tools based on programme needs, data protection considerations, usability and sustainability.
  • Monitor relevant developments in data management, DHIS2, GIS and data visualization, recommending practical improvements where beneficial.
  • Maintain an inventory of programme data platforms, relevant subscriptions and system dependencies within the role’s remit, coordinating procurement or licensing matters with the responsible team.

G. Limited ICT Support (Maximum 10% of Role)

  • Provide limited troubleshooting for devices, connectivity or software only where an issue directly prevents the use of programme data systems or digital data collection tools.
  • Refer general hardware, network, server, email, account administration, cybersecurity infrastructure and helpdesk issues to the designated ICT team or service provider.
  • Do not assume responsibility for organisation-wide network or server administration, general end-user IT support, email administration or overall ICT infrastructure management.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Data Management, Computer Science, Information Technology, Statistics, GIS, Monitoring and Evaluation, or a closely related field.
  • Specialized training or certification in DHIS2 and GIS is required, or equivalent demonstrable technical expertise supported by relevant training and practical experience.

Experience

  • At least three years of relevant experience in data management, information systems, digital data collection, database administration or programme data systems.
  • Demonstrated practical experience configuring or administering DHIS2, including metadata management, indicators, validation rules, user roles or dashboards.
  • Experience with GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS and with spatial analysis and map production. Experience designing, maintaining or analyzing databases, with knowledge of SQL Server, MySQL or comparable database technologies.
  • Experience using digital data collection platforms such as KoboToolbox, CommCare or DHIS2 Mobile.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop dashboards and data visualizations using Power BI, Tableau or similar tools.
  • Experience supporting and training non-technical users and working collaboratively with programme and MEAL teams.
  • Experience in an NGO, humanitarian or development programme environment is an advantage.

4. Technical Skills

  • Strong working knowledge of DHIS2 configuration, metadata management, data quality controls and reporting.
  • Practical GIS skills, including spatial data management, analysis and thematic mapping. • Proficiency in data visualization and reporting tools such as Power BI or Tableau.
  • Knowledge of database design, data structures, data cleaning and SQL; Python or R is an advantage.
  • Understanding of data protection, access control, confidentiality, secure data handling and backup principles.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills focused on data systems and programme information needs.

5. Core Competencies and Personal Attributes

  • Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
  • Commitment to data accuracy, integrity, confidentiality and responsible data use.
  • Ability to translate technical concepts into clear guidance for non-technical colleagues.
  • Strong communication, facilitation and training skills.
  • Collaborative approach and ability to work effectively with programme, MEAL and field teams.
  • Proactive, organized and able to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
  • Continuous improvement mindset, with an emphasis on practical and sustainable solutions.
  • Commitment to the mission, vision and values of Feed the Children.

Commitment to Equal Employment

At Feed the Children, we believe in Equal Employment Opportunities. Therefore, we consider all applicants based on merit, regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are also committed to promoting a gender-responsive approach as a cross-cutting principle throughout our organization.

Safeguarding Policy

Feed the Children strives to provide an environment free from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment in all locations where humanitarian assistance and development programs are implemented. Feed the Children has a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. We expect all employees to uphold the highest ethical standards, protect the organization’s integrity and reputation, and ensure that all work is conducted honestly and fairly, in accordance with Feed the Children’s Safeguarding and related policies.

We are committed to keeping children safe. Therefore, our recruitment and selection process includes background checks, reflecting our commitment to child safeguarding.

Our primary commitment is to foster a culture that prioritizes the promotion of safe and protective environments for children participating in the various programs implemented by Feed the Children in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, ensuring zero tolerance for any form of harm, abuse, or mistreatment of children.

Commitment to Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Feed the Children is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, respectful, and safe work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with dignity and respect. Feed the Children expressly prohibits and will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or workplace bullying in any work environment. As part of our strategy, we aim to increase the representation and recruitment of women across our workforce, as well as individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

How to apply

Please send your CV to this Email feedinternationaljobs@feedthechildren.org