Research Assistants
Women’s Economic Empowerment and Resilience in Pastoral Communities (WEE-RESP+)
- Duty stations
- Samburu, Marsabit, Laikipia and Isiolo Counties, Kenya
- Engagement
- Short-term, field-based. About one month or less.
Apply by 13 October 2026Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
About IMPACT Kenya
IMPACT Kenya forges powerful alliances to advance Indigenous rights, strengthen the security of ancestral lands, and build resilient futures. Through community-led approaches, we support sustainable and diversified livelihoods that strengthen economic resilience and create opportunities for women and communities.
We are implementing the WEE-RESP+ project, which strengthens the economic resilience and empowerment of pastoralist women through sustainable, market-oriented livelihood interventions, including the development of the goat milk value chain. The project has one year of research and three years of implementation, with research and learning shaping the design and delivery of each intervention.
About the role
We are looking for qualified, motivated and community-oriented people to serve as Research Assistants for feasibility studies and related research under WEE-RESP+. You will support the research team and consultants with quantitative and qualitative data collection, data entry and other field research, working closely with communities, local partners and IMPACT Kenya staff across the project counties.
The feasibility study will assess whether the proposed goat milk value chain is viable, sustainable and appropriate for the target pastoralist communities. It goes beyond technical and economic assessment to capture the lived realities, priorities, aspirations and experiences of pastoralist women, using participatory, culturally grounded approaches that recognise and integrate Indigenous and traditional knowledge. Findings will recommend whether the initiative should proceed, be adapted or be discontinued. Where it is viable, the study will inform a grounded implementation framework covering practical approaches, entry points, pathways and partnerships.
Key responsibilities
- Complete training on research protocols, data collection tools, ethical requirements and field procedures.
- Support mobilisation of study participants with community structures and local stakeholders, using culturally sensitive approaches.
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative data collection: household assessments and surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), In-depth Interviews (IDIs), observations, and milk and water sample collection where required.
- Record, enter and submit data accurately using approved digital platforms, including KoboToolbox.
- Ensure data is complete, accurate and consistent, and support data cleaning and verification as guided by the research team.
- Work with the consultant and IMPACT Kenya staff to troubleshoot challenges with tools and field processes.
- Keep accurate field notes, particularly during qualitative research.
- Take part in daily field debriefs and submit timely progress reports to your supervisor.
- Immediately report any safeguarding, child protection or other protection concerns through the appropriate channels.
- Uphold research ethics, confidentiality, informed consent and responsible handling of participant information at all times.
- Perform other research-related duties assigned by the lead consultant or supervisor.
Qualifications and experience
Required
- 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 a related field.
- Fluency in English and Kiswahili, written and spoken.
- Fluency in the local languages of the target area(s).
- Demonstrated ability to take accurate notes and support or facilitate qualitative research.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Strong communication, interpersonal and reporting skills.
- Willingness to work in remote and pastoralist settings and engage respectfully with communities.
- Sensitivity to and respect for local cultures, values, beliefs, practices and traditional knowledge.
- Full-time availability during data collection, and for extra assignments as needed.
- Commitment to IMPACT Kenya’s vision, values, safeguarding standards and policies.
An added advantage
- Experience conducting both quantitative and qualitative research, including FGDs, KIIs and IDIs.
- Familiarity with electronic data collection platforms such as KoboToolbox, ODK, ONA, SurveyCTO or CommCare.
Also valued
- Ability to learn quickly, follow protocols and report field issues clearly and concisely.
- Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, with initiative and minimal supervision.
Target locations
Preference goes to qualified candidates who live in, or have strong knowledge of and experience working in, these counties and wards. Familiarity with the pastoral context, community structures and local languages is an important advantage.
| County | Targeted wards |
|---|
| Samburu | Suguta Marmar, Loodokejek, Wamba West and Waso |
| Marsabit | Loglogo and Laisamis |
| Laikipia | Segera, Mukogodo East and Mukogodo West |
| Isiolo | Burat, Ng’are Mara and Oldonyiro |
What we are looking for
- Community-oriented and respectful in your engagement with pastoralist communities.
- Reliable and accountable, with strong attention to detail.
- Ethical and trustworthy, especially with sensitive information.
- Adaptable and resilient in remote and challenging field environments.
- A strong communicator and team player.
- Committed to high-quality research that contributes to improved livelihoods and women’s economic empowerment.
Our values
You will be expected to uphold the core values of IMPACT Kenya and Kerada.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our actions, statements and results, and welcome constructive criticism and meaningful consultation.
Diversity
We recruit a diverse group of people, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or sociocultural background, so everyone feels included.
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency and high moral standards based on community values.
Respect
We value the dignity and worth of everyone involved in our work.
Collaboration
We unite our diverse experiences and expertise to advance our mission.
How to apply
Submit your application by 13 October 2026 using the online form. Name each document with your full name, county and ward, for example Abrahim Ali_Isiolo_Burat.
Your application must include:
- Cover letter
- CV with contact details of two referees
- Copy of your National ID
- Copies of your academic certificates and relevant testimonials, uploaded as one document
Download the full advert (PDF)
Need help? Email llesuuda@impactkenya.org and nlesoloyia@impactkenya.org, with recruitment@impactkenya.org in copy.
IMPACT Kenya is committed to equal opportunity, safeguarding, inclusion and respectful engagement with all communities and stakeholders.
