Research assistants

• Attend and successfully complete training on research protocols, data collection tools, ethical requirements and field procedures.
• Support the mobilization of study participants in collaboration with community structures and local stakeholders, using appropriate and culturally sensitive approaches.
• Conduct high-quality quantitative and qualitative data collection, including household assessments and surveys; focus group discussions (FGDs); key informant interviews (KIIs); in-depth interviews (IDIs); observations; collection of milk and water samples, where required; and other research and assessment activities as assigned.
• Accurately record, enter and submit collected data using approved digital platforms, including KoboToolbox and other electronic data collection systems.
• Ensure completeness, accuracy and consistency of collected data and work closely with supervisors to address data quality issues.
• Support data cleaning and verification as guided by the research team.
• Work closely with the consultant and IMPACT Kenya staff to identify and troubleshoot challenges with data collection tools and field processes.
• Maintain accurate field notes and documentation, particularly during qualitative research activities.
• Participate in daily field debriefs and submit timely progress reports to the assigned supervisor.
• Immediately report any safeguarding, child protection or other protection concerns encountered during fieldwork through the appropriate reporting channels.
• Uphold research ethics, confidentiality, informed consent and responsible handling of participant information at all times.
• Perform any other research-related duties assigned by the lead consultant or the assigned supervisor.

• A certificate, diploma or bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, Dairy Science, Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, Agribusiness Development, Community Development, Sociology, Gender and Development Studies or any other related field.
• Fluency in English and Kiswahili, both written and spoken.
• Fluency in local languages in the target area(s).
• Experience conducting both quantitative and qualitative research, including FGDs, KIIs and IDIs, will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to take accurate notes and support or facilitate qualitative research activities.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications, particularly Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with electronic data collection platforms such as KoboToolbox, ODK, ONA, SurveyCTO or CommCare is an added advantage.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and reporting skills.
• Ability to learn quickly, follow research protocols and communicate field issues clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team while also demonstrating initiative and working with minimal supervision.
• Willingness and ability to work in remote and pastoralist settings and engage respectfully with communities.
• Demonstrated sensitivity to and respect for local cultures, community values, beliefs, practices and traditional knowledge.
• Availability to work full-time during the data collection period and undertake additional assignments on a need basis.
• Commitment to IMPACT Kenya’s vision, values, safeguarding standards and organisational policies.

Local knowledge and familiarity with the pastoral context, community structures and languages of the target areas will be considered an important advantage.

Accountability

We take responsibility for our actions, statements, and results within our areas of expertise. We welcome constructive criticism and meaningful consultations to achieve our objectives.

Diversity

We value diversity as it enriches our perspectives, fosters innovation, and strengthens our ability to accomplish our mission. We strive to recruit a diverse group of individuals, regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, or sociocultural background, to ensure everyone feels included and appreciated in our collective efforts.

Integrity

We operate with honesty, transparency, and high moral standards based on community values.

Respect

We recognize and value the dignity and worth of all individuals involved in our endeavors, and treat them with respect and courtesy to achieve our goals.

Collaboration

We unite our diverse experiences and expertise, leveraging collective action to advance our mission.

• Community-oriented and respectful in their engagement with pastoralist communities.
• Reliable and accountable, with strong attention to detail.
• Ethical and trustworthy, particularly when handling sensitive information.
• Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to work in remote and challenging field environments.
• Strong communicators and team players.
• Committed to high-quality research and evidence generation that contributes to improved livelihoods and women’s economic empowerment.

Application documents should include:

1. 1.Cover letter
2. 2.CV with contact details of two referees
3. 3.Copy of National ID
4. 4.Copies of your academic certificates and relevant testimonials, uploaded as one document

IMPACT Kenya is committed to equal opportunity, safeguarding, inclusion and respectful engagement with all communities and stakeholders.