Under the direct supervision of the Program Coordinator, the Cash and Livelihood Specialist will be responsible for planning, implementing, supervising, and reporting on cash transfer and livelihood interventions managed by Mercy Corps’ Aba’ala Office in Zone 2 of the Afar region. This role involves identifying priority needs, selecting target beneficiaries, leading the cash transfer assistance process in Erebti and Megale Woredas, and facilitating and monitoring the proper distribution and documentation of cash payments to beneficiaries. The specialist is also expected to work in coordination with the Mercy Corps team, financial service providers, key stakeholders, and community representatives to ensure the timely and high-quality implementation of cash and livelihood assistance programs.

Main duties and responsibilities

Program Planning and Implementation:

• Lead the planning, implementation, monitoring and reporting of cash transfer and Livelihood Activities in the project.
• Ensuring that cash assistance is delivered to targeted beneficiaries as per predetermined targeting criteria.
• Lead beneficiary identification, selection and independent or joint verification processes as per jointly set criteria to ensure impartiality, in coordination with project team members, local authorities and communities.
• Facilitate and monitor the proper distribution and documentation of cash payments to beneficiaries.
• Ensure programs are implemented according to established timelines and standards.
• Actively participate in Rapid Assessments, market assessments, capacity assessment of Financial Service Providers (FSP), and other digital cash transfer.
• Ensure that the program resources are implemented in a transparent and accountable manner and handed over or completed in a way that promotes local capacities and sustainable operations.
• Keep record of all required documents related to cash program, beneficiary selection, distribution and post distribution monitoring.
• Ensure mainstreaming of MC Ethiopia’s cross-cutting issues of gender equity, Child Safeguarding.
• Perform other functions as requested by the immediate supervisor.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Supervise or monitor the implementation of cash transfer and livelihood activities. to ensure they are achieving desired outcomes and meeting beneficiary needs.
• Works closely with the MEL officer to generate practical information that can be used for on-going project decision making while also capturing results at outcome levels.
• Work in collaboration with MC MEL team conduct post-distribution monitoring (PDM) for cash transfers to ensure the program quality and collect lesson learned.
• Conduct regular field visits to assess program impact and gather feedback from beneficiaries.
• Support the development and implementation of monitoring and evaluation plans.
• Maintain comprehensive records of program activities, including beneficiary lists and cash distribution logs.
• Ensure consistent reporting and documentation to improve program efficiency and quality.
• Prepare quarterly, semi-annual and annual performance reports for the activities under his/her responsibility.

Coordination and Collaboration:

• Work closely with Mercy Corps team members, financial service providers (FSPs), key stakeholders, and community representatives to ensure effective program implementation.
• Participate in relevant Zone and Woreda level coordination meetings (such as Afar Cash Working group) and represent Mercy Corps as required.
• Foster strong relationships with local authorities, community leaders, and other partners.

 Qualifications and Experience:

• BA/Bsc/Msc/MA degree in a relevant field (e.g-Business Management, Economics, international development, or other related social sciences field).
• At least four years of experience in humanitarian organization(s) in cash and voucher assistance (CVA) and livelihood programming, preferably in relief and recovery programs targeting IDPs and returnees.
• At least 2 years’ experience in an international NGO preferably in an emergency or post-conflict setting.
• Strong understanding of cash transfer modalities, livelihood strategies, and Humanitarian principles and standards.
• Excellent project management skills, including planning, implementation, and reporting.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including local authorities, community representatives, FSPs, and NGOs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access, and design packages).
• Demonstrated commitment to principles of gender, equity, diversity, inclusion and PSHEA (safeguarding) through programming experience TOT or any training in Cash and Vouchers Programming is a plus.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages is an asset.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong commitment to Mercy Corps’ mission and values.
• High level of integrity and accountability.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diverse candidates to apply. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the position advertised.