Code for Africa is hiring: Senior Software Developer (Python)

Code for Africa is looking to recruit a full-time senior software developer specialising in Python based at its main civic technology lab in Nairobi, Kenya.

The successful candidate will have substantial experience in web development using Python and PostgreSQL to work on exciting experiments and large infrastructure projects.

Code for Africa is the continent’s largest civic technology and data journalism initiative, with teams in four hub countries and projects in an additional 20+ African countries. We also incubate investigative and citizen journalism initiatives. We use this network to work with partners in the media, civil society, the private sector and governments to instil a culture of civic innovation and experimentation worldwide. The goal is to seed new ideas and technologies that deepen public accountability, civic transparency, and citizen engagement. You can learn more about our work on our Facebook and Github pages.

The successful candidate will report to Code for Africa’s lead technologist and will work with the tech support team to build robust systems/infrastructure to support substantial growth over the next three years. S/he will specifically be responsible for development pertaining the openAFRICA, connectedAFRICA, waziMAP, sourceAFRICA and other platforms and their composite parts. This would include building extensions and scrapers to enhance the systems’ functionalities. Code for Africa is an advocate for open source software, and the successful candidate would be required to use guidelines and best practices as part of the development work.

In keeping with Code for Africa’s values, the developer will also interact with grantees/partners.

Specific responsibilities include:

-Develop and execute software development requirements in conjunction with the lead technologist. This will include scoping, planning and reviewing all software development plans; monitoring progress and changes; and keeping senior leadership abreast of the project’s status
-Develop robust extensions and softwares that can be easily reused
-Ensure proper documentation of all developed software including, where appropriate, user wikis/manuals for non-technical partners
-Keep all code and documentation updated using Github and Git Source Code Management tools. This includes addressing any opened issues
-Analyse and present project reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicating monthly and annual project status
-Update and implement all necessary project policies and best practices; improve the tech team’s overall policy and procedure manual
-Effectively communicate and present the critical software development matters to the directors and project manager

The successful candidate will have at least three years of professional experience in Python software development, and should be able to demonstrate capacity for planning and managing systems development in a highly entrepreneurial organisation.

Candidates will have the following qualifications and skills:

-A Masters or equivalent degree in the I.T field would be preferred, but not required. Your code portfolio/track-record is as important, if not more, as academic qualifications
-At least three years of overall professional experience using Python; ideally with a minimum of 1+ years of using PostgreSQL
-The ideal candidate has experience of final responsibility for the quality and content of all software components, and reporting and audit coordination for either a division or significant program area
-Ability to translate software requirements to working products and to effectively collaborate with colleagues who do not necessarily have technical backgrounds
-A track record in using git source code management tool; particularly with Github
-A successful track record in setting priorities; keen analytical, organisation and problem solving skills which support and enable sound decision making
-Excellent communication and relationship building skills with an ability to prioritise, negotiate, and work with a variety of internal and external stakeholders
-A multi-tasker with the ability to wear many hats in a fast-paced environment. Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and dedication to the Code for Africa mission

The position is contract-based, for twelve months, with remuneration subject to experience. The successful candidate will be expected to start 1st February 2016 on an initial three-month probationary contract.

Code for Africa is funded by a basket of international donors, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Free Press Unlimited, Google, HiVOS, the Omidyar Network, the World Bank, various regional Open Society Foundations and a variety of smaller donors.

While Code for Africa focuses its work on the continent, it regularly collaborates with like-minded initiatives across Asia, Europe, and Latin America as part of the wider International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) network.

Applicants should send compelling cases (be as creative as you’d like), with clear showcase of skills and past experience, to join@codeforafrica.org by no later than 20th January 2016.