The University of Malawi invites applications from suitably qualified and interested individuals for the temporary position of Data Collectors under the Malawi National Dietary Intake Survey (MANDIS) Project. The positions are for a packaged food label data collection exercise to be conducted in selected retail stores across Malawi over a 2-week period.

Responsibilities or duties

Data Collection and Product Documentation

• Conduct in-store data collection on packaged food labels in assigned retail outlets.
• Systematically identify and record eligible packaged food products.
• Capture high-quality photographs of all required package panels.
• Scan and record product barcodes using Kobo Toolbox.
• Record nutrient information, ingredient lists, prices, manufacturer details, and product claims.

Data Quality Assurance

• Ensure completeness, accuracy, and consistency of collected data.
• Review all captured images immediately to ensure clarity and legibility.
• Avoid duplicating product entries during store visits.
• Synchronise and upload collected data daily.

Field Coordination and Reporting

• Communicate regularly with the Project Manager regarding field progress and challenges.
• Adhere strictly to study protocols and ethical procedures.
• Maintain professional conduct while interacting with store management and staff.

Qualifications or requirements (e.g., education, skills)

Applicants should have a minimum qualification of a bachelor’s degree in either Nutrition, Food Science, Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, or ICT. Applicants must have experience using electronic data collection platforms such as Kobo Toolbox, ODK, or similar platforms.

Experience needed

Previous experience in research or field data collection will be an added advantage. Experience using Kobo Toolbox or similar electronic data collection tools is desirable.

Any other provided details (e.g., benefits, work environment, team info, or additional notes)

Skills Required

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Basic computer and smartphone/tablet literacy
• Communications & Media Studies

Disposition

• Self-motivated
• Reliable and professional
• Willingness to work flexible hours where necessary

TRAINING

Successful applicants will undergo mandatory training before commencing data collection activities.

• Conduct in-store data collection on packaged food labels in assigned retail outlets.
• Systematically identify and record eligible packaged food products.
• Capture high-quality photographs of all required package panels.
• Scan and record product barcodes using Kobo Toolbox.
• Record nutrient information, ingredient lists, prices, manufacturer details, and product claims.
• Ensure completeness, accuracy, and consistency of collected data.
• Review all captured images immediately to ensure clarity and legibility.
• Avoid duplicating product entries during store visits.
• Synchronise and upload collected data daily.
• Communicate regularly with the Project Manager regarding field progress and challenges.
• Adhere strictly to study protocols and ethical procedures.
• Maintain professional conduct while interacting with store management and staff.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Basic computer and smartphone/tablet literacy
• Communications & Media Studies

• Bachelor’s degree in either Nutrition, Food Science, Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, or ICT.
• Experience using electronic data collection platforms such as Kobo Toolbox, ODK, or similar platforms.