Aga Khan University

Field Enumerators at Aga Khan University – Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi – 2025

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

Position: Field Enumerators
Location: Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kilifi
Type of Job: Full-Time (Project-Based/Contract)
Number of Posts: Not specified
Job Category: Research and Data Collection
Reporting to: Project Coordinator and Principal Investigator
Application Deadline: Open until filled

INTRODUCTION

Are you passionate about making a difference through impactful research that shapes public policy and transforms communities? This opportunity is tailored for individuals who thrive in data-driven environments and are committed to community engagement, research excellence, and contributing to early human development. The Field Enumerator role offers a rewarding chance to work with vulnerable populations and contribute toward innovative research designed to enhance lives in Kenya. With a primary focus on both qualitative and quantitative data collection, this role places you at the heart of groundbreaking projects conducted by a globally recognized institution. Candidates residing in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kilifi are especially encouraged to apply due to the field-based nature of this assignment.

This position is ideal for candidates who value hands-on fieldwork, seek to deepen their research experience, and are eager to apply their academic training to real-world issues affecting Kenyan communities. It offers not only the chance to grow professionally but also to make a lasting impact in education, health, and social behavior research initiatives. Field enumerators will become an essential part of multidisciplinary research teams that inform local and national policy while interacting with community members in a respectful and insightful manner.

ABOUT AGA KHAN UNIVERSITY (AKU)

Aga Khan University (AKU) is a premier, private, not-for-profit institution operating under the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Since its founding, AKU has remained committed to producing impactful leaders, conducting transformative research, and providing high-quality healthcare services. The institution’s mission is to improve the quality of life in the developing world through education, research, and health service delivery.

Operating in six countries across Asia and Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, AKU focuses on both local and global leadership. In Kenya, AKU has made significant contributions through its teaching hospital, nursing and midwifery programmes, and public health research.

The Institute for Human Development (IHD), a key arm of AKU, is dedicated to advancing early human development research. Its vision is to create a foundation for successful, pluralistic societies by generating evidence that informs practice, programmes, and policies. Through collaborations with local communities and policymakers, IHD aims to produce relevant, timely, and actionable research. By becoming a part of this initiative, you will join a distinguished institution working at the forefront of human development.

To learn more, visit the Aga Khan University official website.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Field Enumerator, your responsibilities will span across multiple domains of fieldwork, data management, and community engagement. You will be a critical part of research teams working under direct supervision from experienced project leads.

Conduct quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, ensuring data collection protocols are followed meticulously.
Engage in recruitment and mobilization of study participants by working with community leaders and local networks.
Introduce the research study to participants, explain its objectives, and obtain informed consent prior to any data collection.
Assist with pre-testing of data collection tools including questionnaires, discussion guides, and observation checklists.
Document all field activities by taking comprehensive notes, summarizing field interactions, and providing real-time feedback.
Participate in focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) by serving as facilitator or note taker, as required.
Ensure secure handling of data, maintaining confidentiality and accuracy of participant information.
Generate interview and FGD summaries post-fieldwork and contribute to final research reports and documentation.
Transcribe and translate audio recordings from field interviews using standardized templates and tools.
Assist in data analysis, including the use of NVIVO or similar qualitative data analysis software for coding and charting.
Report any field challenges or anomalies to supervisors promptly and propose actionable solutions.

This role may also involve occasional travel to remote or rural communities. Enumerators are expected to adhere to all health and safety protocols and maintain a professional demeanor throughout fieldwork activities.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

Applicants must meet the following academic and professional qualifications to be considered for the Field Enumerator role:

Educational Background: Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, or a related field.
Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of demonstrable experience in field data collection using structured questionnaires and qualitative tools.
Language Proficiency: Fluency in both English and Kiswahili is essential. Proficiency in local dialects spoken in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kilifi is an added advantage.
Technical Competency: Experience with mobile data collection platforms (e.g., ODK, KoboToolbox) and transcription software is preferred.
Software Knowledge: Ability to use data management and analysis tools such as Microsoft Excel, NVIVO, and Google Forms.
Soft Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and attention to detail.
Residency: Applicants residing in the project regions (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi) are highly preferred for ease of field deployment.
Confidentiality: Must demonstrate the ability to handle sensitive data with discretion and ethical responsibility.

Candidates who have participated in large-scale public health or education surveys will have an added advantage. Prior work with NGOs, universities, or international development agencies is desirable.

COMPANY CULTURE AND VALUES

At Aga Khan University, the core values of integrity, compassion, and excellence shape every aspect of institutional operations. The university promotes diversity, inclusion, and the professional growth of all staff members. You will be joining a workplace that encourages innovation, supports teamwork, and values the input of every employee.

AKU fosters a culture of respect, accountability, and evidence-based practice. The university’s emphasis on community-driven research allows employees to make a tangible difference in local contexts while contributing to international development goals. If you are looking for a work environment that supports continuous learning, personal development, and collaborative success, then AKU is the place for you.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should prepare a well-written application package including the following documents:

A formal application letter expressing interest in the Field Enumerator role.
A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining academic qualifications and previous work experience.
Names and contact details of three professional referees who can attest to your competence and character.

Submit all application materials via email to:

Email Address: hr.univeristyke@aku.edu
Subject Line: Application for Field Enumerator Position

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The position remains open until a suitable candidate is identified.

Ensure that your application package is complete, professionally written, and submitted on time. Any missing documents may result in disqualification.