ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: ECD: DATA QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER

Job Overview

An opportunity is available for an Assistant Director: ECD Data Quality Assurance Officer on a 3-year contract based in Cape Town. The role requires a 3-year NQF6 qualification in Data Management, Statistics, or a related field, alongside 5 years of experience in data management, quality assurance, or system support. Key duties include monitoring ECD data accuracy in the eCares system, supporting district and provincial users, conducting training, and ensuring effective reporting and data quality practices.

Requirements & Qualifications

• SAQA-recognised three-year post-matric qualification (NQF6 or higher) in Data Management, Information Systems, Statistics, Social Sciences, M&E or related field.
• A postgraduate qualification in a relevant field will be an added advantage.
• 5 years' experience in data management, data quality assurance, monitoring or system support.
• Experience in the education sector data (e.g., EMIS) or ECD programmes is beneficial.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data validation.
• Business Intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) advantageous.
• Basic database and reporting processes.
• Ability to support end-users and provide helpdesk-style guidance.
• Good communication (verbal & written) and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.
• A valid driver's licence and willingness to travel provincially.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Monitoring and improving accuracy, completeness and consistency of ECD data in the Early childhood Administration and Reporting System - eCares.
• Supporting district and provincial users with data entry, uploads, corrections and troubleshooting.
• Conducting data quality checks and implementing improvement measures.
• Maintaining records of discrepancies, resolutions and reporting artefacts.
• Supporting preparation of routine provincial and district reports.
• Conducting and supporting user training and capacity-building.
• Promoting the utilisation of dashboards and reports for planning and service delivery.
• Supporting user access management and assisting with system usage queries.
• Collaborating with national, provincial and district stakeholders to drive improved data quality practices.
• Conduct or support training sessions (virtually and in-person) for provincial and district users on data quality requirements.
• Reinforce importance of accurate data entry and maintenance, and share tips and guidance for improving data quality.
• Design and implement data quality and completeness reviews.
• Advocate for use of eCares reports and dashboards to support ECD operations and planning.
• Ensure that reports and new plans are prepared with enough lead time to get the necessary approvals.

Enquiries & Contact