POST:Honduras Project Assistant Internship

Innovations for Poverty Action
Location: Gracias, Honduras
Last Date: February 19, 2010
Email: jseverski@poverty-action.org

Honduras Project Assistant Internship
IPA is accepting interns during January - April 2010 in Honduras to assist with the evaluation of “Targeting the Ultra-Poor” a microfinance graduation project.
Job Description
- Work closely with Project Coordinator and assist with on-going project tasks such as survey design and piloting, as well as coordination of data collection efforts on the ground. Interns will shadow survey staff during interviews with families participating in the study in order to monitor the quality of the data and to assist with data collection. These families have been identified as the “ultra poor” and visits to their houses may require long hikes in remote areas of Honduras.
- Conduct supplementary research: While doing field work, researchers often encounter areas for additional research to supplement data collected through surveys. The role of interns would be to investigate special topics.
Required
• Proficiency in English and Spanish. Strong oral and written communications skills.
• Excellent management and organizational skills and ability to work independently
• Experience or interest in economics or social science research.
• Willingness to learn new computer programs.
• Willingness to spend 4 consecutive weeks in the communities, walking long hours and speaking purely Spanish.
Preferred
• Developing country experience, cultural sensitivity, and demonstrated ability to work successfully with diverse constituencies.
• Experience with or knowledge of microfinance.
• Course work or experience in research methods
• Coursework in econometrics, advanced knowledge of STATA or experience with data management.
• Familiarity with randomized control trials.
About Location:
The political situation in Honduras has stabilized since elections were held in November. Assignment is based in Gracias, Lempira (San Pedro Sula is closest airport). Work is conducted in the 80 villages within the department of Lempira. The area is considered low-risk and safe. Gracias is a small, “tranquilo” town with a strong ex-pat and NGO presence. Interns will have the opportunity to meet locals, improve their Spanish, and gain valuable experience about the programs designed to alleviate poverty amongst the poorest populations. Please note that internships are unpaid and interns are responsible for housing and transportation costs. Daily stipend for project related expenses will be provided.

To apply, send your CV and a cover letter to jseverski@poverty-action.org.

Application deadline: February 19, 2010