Intern, Information Systems at Evidence Action

Job Description

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Evidence Action scales proven interventions that improve the lives of millions. We only implement cost-effective programs whose efficacy is backed by substantial rigorous evidence. We identify innovative, appropriate financing mechanisms and build best-practice operational models. We voraciously self-evaluate, learn, and improve our models for scaling effective interventions with a commitment to transparency, impact, and value for money.

Job purpose

The Intern, Information Systems will be responsible for technical support of key Information Systems, which drive Evidence Action’s operations and expansion. The Intern will primarily focus on delivering solutions and supporting information for Evidence Action’s programs ensuring high availability and accessibility of critical operational services for teams. This will happen through platforms and technical implementations that aim to streamline workflows and deliver important data indicators. In addition, the Intern will provide support to the Associate, Information Systems and the broader Data Learning and Analytics team on all requests delivered.

Duties and responsibilities

Application development and support (30%-40%)

Develop and manage application solutions that help meet user needs, help manage data interoperability and support process and data improvement with the view of program needs.

Assess and document user requirements and translate them into detailed product requirements Create relevant back-end objects during the entire application development lifecycle Collaborate with other developers and program team users to innovate new features and enhancements to existing components that comply with program workflow. Conduct pilot testing of applications created and technical research on new system features to provide recommendations for streamlining program use cases. Contribute to the development of documentation of user manuals, system updates, feature trackers, and design documentation. Support development and maintenance of DHIS2 application(s) used by programs within the East and Southern Africa sub-region implemented as the central platform for project planning, reporting, analysis, and dissemination of information with internal and external stakeholders.

Data Management and Reporting (20%)

Support the existing and additional reporting mechanisms for data contained in DHIS2 and other platforms through dashboards, pivot tables, charts, data exports and any other form as needed.

On request and on an ad-hoc basis, in collaboration with other MLE teams, support the cleaning, analysis and reporting of program and system data Automate data exports for various program reports including but not limited to operational and program workflows to ease the integration with PowerBi and RShiny Server. Work closely with MLE data management teams to ensure consistency and clear definition of data across PostgreSQL and SQL database tables and troubleshoot challenges with the data. Carry out regular data back-ups and syncs to ensure the safety and integrity of data.

Information Systems maintenance and support (10%-15%)

Upon program request and as part of routine IS operations, perform support and maintenance of existing systems and contribute to workflows in all the ways called upon.

Maintain and test Information Systems to ensure proper function as per program request; regularly monitor information system equipment for errors and stoppages for corrective action and solutions. Implement necessary and/or request development changes as per program requirements. Assess the uptake of system modules and features taking up a user-focused development approach in order to maximize use of client systems and data assets. Actively participate in the identification, evaluation, and testing of new technologies and contribute to the innovation of systems and workflows.

Requirements

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems or any related field from a recognized university. Knowledge and experience with DHIS2 development and maintenance are preferred. Knowledge of statistical software packages such as Stata, R, SPSS, SAS etc and PowerBI/R tools for Visualization. Knowledge in database design and development using relational database management systems including MySQL and PostgreSQL is an advantage. Demonstrated knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web application development and Java for mobile applications is a plus. Experience with Git or other version control systems. A strong understanding of web performance in complex user interfaces Experience or knowledge of design disciplines and processes such as client-server solution architecture, MVC models or OOP using PHP, Java and other technologies. Experience with project management as it relates to the development and implementation of large/complex integrated information systems. Working experience providing direct support to end users in a dynamic Information Systems-related position is an added advantage. Experience working in and supporting project teams, including users in other countries is preferred. Github repository of previous and current projects is preferred.

Required Skills and Attributes

Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to be innovative. Strong Data Management Skills Attention to detail and ability to keep tight timelines and ensure that tasks are delivered according to expectations. Service/Client-oriented and ability to work well in a cross-cultural and geographically dispersed team. Strong self-motivation and ability to work vigilantly under minimum supervision. Ability to communicate professionally both in written and spoken English. Flexible mindset and a positive attitude to work in a fast-changing environment. Flexibility and willingness to travel to field offices when the need arises.