Temporary Data Collector – Retail Food Label Survey

About the role

The University of Malawi is seeking eight temporary Data Collectors to support the Malawi National Dietary Intake Survey (MANDIS) project. The role involves a two‑week in‑store collection of packaged food label information across selected retail outlets in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Zomba and Mzuzu.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct in‑store data collection on packaged food labels, recording product details, photographing package panels, and scanning barcodes using Kobo Toolbox or similar tools.
• Ensure data quality by reviewing images for clarity, avoiding duplicate entries, and uploading data daily.
• Communicate progress and any field challenges to the Project Manager, adhering to study protocols and ethical procedures.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Food Science, Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, ICT or a related field.
• Experience with electronic data‑collection platforms such as Kobo Toolbox or ODK is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Self‑motivated, reliable and willing to work flexible hours as needed.

Required skills

• Kobo Toolbox or ODK (or similar electronic data‑collection tools).
• Smartphone/tablet operation for data entry and photography.
• Barcode scanning and basic computer literacy.