Junior ICT Specialist

Buni is a Swahili word meaning “innovation” and Banda , also a Swahili word, means a “shed”; we see ourselves as offering a small space , or shed, where anyone can explore their creative ideas without limits. a space where innovation is driven by those who experience the challenges firsthand, ensuring that solutions are not only effective but also embraced and sustained.

At Buni Banda, we’re not just solving problems—we’re building futures where communities are the driving force behind their own success. Because the best solutions aren’t imposed from the outside—they’re built together, from the ground up.

Through research, human-centered design, grant-writing, data analysis and insights, business modelling and project implementation, we bridge the gap between donor ambitions and on-the-ground realities. Our goal is to empower organizations to achieve long-term resource efficiency while creating meaningful impact.

Junior ICT Specialist (Hybrid Developer & Systems Support)

Position Title: Junior ICT Specialist
Reports To: Senior Systems Developer
Project: Community-Centric Climate Early Warning System (C3-EWS)
Location: Siaya, Nairobi, and Remote Work as Required
Contract Type: Short-Term Consultancy
Duration: 6 months with possible extension

Overview

The Junior ICT Specialist will support the development, deployment, and maintenance of the C3-EWS digital platform. This hybrid role combines software development, ICT integration, and basic systems/server administration. The role is designed to build local capacity, enable iterative design, and ensure robust system operations in field and cloud environments. The role requires someone comfortable coding, integrating with APIs, managing basic cloud environments, and supporting implementation in diverse infrastructure settings. The Junior ICT Specialist will work under the close supervision of the Senior Systems Developer and collaborate with other project staff including GIS specialists, enumerators, and the study coordinator.

Key Responsibilities

A. Software Development & Data Integration

• Support front-end development using frameworks such as React, Vue, or HTML/CSS/JavaScript.
• Implement and test back-end logic using Python, Node.js, or equivalent.
• Assist in API integration with external platforms (e.g., DHIS2, OpenWeatherMap, ODK).
• Support spatial data visualization using tools like Leaflet or Mapbox.
• Troubleshoot bugs, debug system errors, and conduct routine code reviews.
• Assist in preparing mobile-optimized interfaces and offline-first capabilities.

B. ICT & Digital Systems Support

• Assist with field deployment, testing, and refinement of early warning dashboards.
• Configure interoperability with systems such as DHIS2, KoboToolbox, SurveyCTO.
• Provide ICT support during community barazas and end-user testing.
• Support local data integration from SwitchBot, Garmin, NetDL, or sensor data.
• Help maintain internal documentation, UI/UX testing logs, and deployment guides.

C. Server & System Management

• Support setup and maintenance of local and cloud-based servers (e.g., AWS, Firebase, DigitalOcean).
• Monitor server uptime, troubleshoot hosting issues, and manage access control.
• Implement basic security, backup, and patch protocols.
• Set up and monitor system logs, error tracking, and usage stats.
• Help manage deployment workflows (e.g., GitHub Actions, Firebase CI/CD).

D. Collaboration & Learning

• Participate in weekly sprint meetings with the technical team.
• Work closely with the Senior Developer to learn architecture and deployment logic.
• Collaborate with field teams to improve user feedback loops.
• Document work clearly for future use by non-technical stakeholders.

Qualifications

Required:

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• At least 1–2 years of hands-on experience in web/app development (can include internship or freelance work).
• Demonstrated ability to deploy simple web apps or dashboards.
• Familiarity with HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and one backend language (e.g., Python).
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Firebase, or equivalent).
• Willingness to learn and work in interdisciplinary, field-based environments.

Desirable:

• Familiarity with GIS platforms or spatial data.
• Prior experience working with research, public health, or early warning systems.
• Experience working with version control systems (e.g., Git).
• Knowledge of SMS integration, chatbot interfaces, or offline-first design.

Duration & Reporting

• This is a full-time consultancy expected to last 6 months.
• The consultant will report to the Senior Systems Developer.
• Monthly check-ins will include technical deliverables and learning objectives.

Remuneration

Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Payment will be structured in monthly instalments based on deliverables and supervisor approval.

Growth & Capacity Building

This role is designed to build in-country technical capacity for climate-health systems. The Junior ICT Specialist will receive mentorship from the Senior Developer and have opportunities to:

• Learn full-stack development workflows
• Understand climate-health data integration
• Work on real-world deployments in Kenyan counties

Expected Deliverables

1. Month 1: Familiarization with project architecture; setup of local development environment and cloud staging server; participation in design sprints.
2. Month 2: Implementation of front-end mockups and API testing with simulated data; configuration of user authentication system.
3. Month 3: Integration of real-time sensor data (e.g., rainfall, indoor temp); support in deploying mobile-first interface.
4. Month 4: Interoperability layer tested with DHIS2 and KoboToolbox; log system implemented; backup scripts configured.
5. Month 5: Deployment support for pilot barazas; UI refinements based on community feedback; localization (language & layout).
6. Month 6: Final system optimization; documentation finalized; full transition plan to local stakeholders.

Each deliverable will be reviewed during a sprint review with the Senior Systems Developer and the study team.