Location:
Mogadishu, Somalia
Contract Duration: 6 months, renewable based on performance and funding availability
Deadline Date: 22 October 2025

About Digital Shelter

Digital Shelter (DS) is a Somali based civic tech and digital rights organization dedicated to creating a safer, more open, and empowering digital environment for all. At our core, we believe that technology should serve as a bridge, connecting citizens, amplifying voices, and strengthening democracy. Through our work, we advance digital literacy, online safety, and data protection while advocating for freedom of expression, civic education, and participation in governance. We see technology not just as a tool, but as a powerful enabler for inclusive civic engagement and accountable leadership.

Digital Shelter works to expand civic space by equipping communities with the knowledge and confidence to safely participate in public discourse, challenge misinformation, and hold power to account. Our programs bring together youth, journalists, policymakers, and tech innovators to co-create digital solutions that strengthen transparency, access to information, and citizen participation. Beyond advocacy, DS is also shaping the future of work by helping young people explore tech driven opportunities and creative digital skills that foster innovation and job creation. From digital storytelling to entrepreneurship, we are building a generation of informed, connected, and empowered youth ready to lead Somalia’s digital transformation.

Position Overview

The Research and Data Assistant will provide essential support to the project’s research and data functions. This role involves assisting in data collection, management, and preliminary analysis to support programmatic decision making and reporting. The Assistant will work under the supervision of the research lead to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of data. This position is ideal for individuals seeking to develop technical skills in research and data analysis while contributing to evidence-based project work.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and administration of surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other data collection methods.
  • Collect data from primary and secondary sources in accordance with organizational standards.
  • Enter, clean, and validate data to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  • Maintain and organize databases, files, and records related to research and programmatic activities.
  • Assist the lead researcher in literature reviews, data compilation, and report writing.
  • Summarize findings and prepare draft reports, charts, and presentations.
  • Support the development of data visualizations and basic analyses to inform program teams and stakeholders.
  • Support the monitoring and evaluation of project activities by collecting and tracking relevant indicators.
  • Contribute to routine reporting, dashboards, and documentation of program outcomes.
  • Assist in coordinating research activities, meetings, and workshops.
  • Maintain proper documentation of all research and data activities.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure a smooth flow of research and data processes.
  • Ensure adherence to organizational policies, ethical guidelines, and data protection standards.
  • Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive information.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Statistics, Economics, Data Science, Development Studies, or a related field.
  • 1–2 years of experience in research, data collection, or data management is preferred. Internships and volunteer experience may also be considered.
  • Familiarity with data entry tools, spreadsheets, and basic statistical software (e.g., Excel, SPSS, or similar).
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Good organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and take direction from senior staff.

Language Skills

Candidates must be proficient in both Somali and English, with strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.

At Digital Shelter, we are committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and welcoming workplace. We strongly encourage women and candidates to apply.

Application Process

Qualified candidates should submit their CV and letter of motivation detailing their relevant experience and suitability for the role to hr@digitalshelter.org before October 22, 2025, 11:59 PM EAT. Include the position title in the subject line of your email.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage.