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Field Interviewers/Biomarkers Demographic and Health Survey

Freetown, Sierra Leone

1.     Background

Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced Sierra Leoneans to serve as field staff (Interviewers and Biomarkers) for the 2026 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS).

The Demographic and Health Survey is a nationally representative household survey that collects high-quality data on population, maternal and child health, nutrition, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, malaria, gender-based violence, and other key health and demographic indicators to inform national planning and policy.

It also assesses the achievement of goals and targets set in national and international development frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Medium-Term National Development Plan.

2.   Main Duties and Responsibilities of Interviewer

·       Locate assigned clusters with team supervisor and conduct interviews with all eligible respondents.

·       Understand the survey methodology, questionnaires, manuals, concepts and definitions.

·       Obtain informed consent from respondents

·       Demonstrate competence in the use of tablets and the approved CAPI application.

·       Record responses directly into the CAPI application without omission, substitution, alteration, or fabrication and synchronized with team supervisor on a daily basis.

3.   Main Duties and Responsibilities of Biomarker

·       Collect biomarker samples following DHS protocols.

·       Conduct anthropometric measurements.

·       Ensure infection prevention and control measures.

·       Maintain accurate specimen records.

·       Counsel respondents where required.

·       Ensure safe transportation of specimens.

4.   Minimum Qualifications

Applicants for both Interviewer and Biomarker must possess:

  • A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or tertiary institution in Demography, Statistics, Public Health, Sociology, Economics, Development Studies, Geography, Social Sciences, Information Technology, Nursing, Community Health, or another relevant field.
  • Previous experience in field data collection or household surveys.
  • Practical experience using CAPI, tablets, smartphones, or other electronic data-collection devices.
  • Good written and spoken English.
  • Ability to communicate in at least one Sierra Leonean local language.
  • Basic computer and digital literacy.
  • Willingness and physical ability to work in urban, rural, remote, and difficult-to-reach areas.
  • Availability for the full training and data-collection period.

5.   Added Advantage

Previous experience in the following will be an added advantage:

  • Demographic Health Survey;
  • Sierra Leone Integrated Household Survey;
  • Health, nutrition, fertility, mortality, or reproductive-health surveys;
  • Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey;
  • Population and Housing Census; and
  • Other large-scale household surveys using CAPI.
  • Experience with CSPro/CSEntry, Survey Solutions, Kobo Toolbox, Open Data Kit, REDCap, CommCare, or similar platforms will also be an advantage.

6.   Required Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate:

  • Strong interviewing and communication skills;
  • Honesty, integrity, confidentiality, and accountability;
  • Attention to detail and commitment to data quality;
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions;
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team;
  • Respect for cultural, religious, gender, and social differences;
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet targets; and
  • Leadership and problem-solving skills for candidates considered for supervisory roles.

7.   Application Requirements

Applicants must complete the official online application form and provide:

·        A recent curriculum vitae

  • A valid national identification document
  • Copies of relevant academic certificates
  • Details or evidence of previous field data-collection experience;
  • Contact details for professional referees; and
  • A recent passport-size photograph.

All submitted information must be accurate and verifiable. False information or documents will result in disqualification.

8.   Equal Opportunity and Confidentiality

·       Statistics Sierra Leone is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified Women are particular encouraged to apply.

·       Selected candidates will be required to sign a confidentiality declaration and comply with all applicable data-protection and survey procedures.

9.    Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted through the official Statistics Sierra Leone online recruitment portal no later than Close of business on Tuesday 28th July 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for training.

Website: www.statistics.sl.