Volunteer category: National UN Volunteer Specialist

Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Number of assignments: 1

Duty stations: Kampala

Details

Mission and objectives

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations' global development network. UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience to sustain development results.

Context

Pulse Lab Kampala (https://www.unglobalpulse.org/lab/kampala/) is part of a network called UN Global Pulse (https://www.unglobalpulse.org) with other Labs in New York, Jakarta in Indonesia, and Helsinki in Finland. In Uganda Pulse Lab Kampala operates under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator. Established in 2009, UN Global Pulse (UNGP) is an initiative of the Executive Office of Secretary-General (EOSG) with a globally distributed team in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia. In support of the Secretary-General’s priorities, and in advancement of the UN Charter. Global Pulse serves as a cross-pillar lead and hub for experimentation and digital innovation. UNGP works with digital innovation, strategic foresight, real-time data and artificial intelligence to further sustainable development, humanitarian and peace outcomes. UNDP's vision is ‘A world in which responsible and inclusive digital innovation serves to empower people and protect the planet’. UNDP's mission is to work at the intersection of digital innovation and science to inform, inspire and support the entire UN and those it serves, and to anticipate and respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow. The goals of the UNGP Network are: i) to generate knowledge, capabilities and approaches that support the transformation of the United Nations into a more agile and resilient ‘next-generation’ institution; ii) to create and accelerate the development of globally accessible approaches which help communities and partners anticipate and address emerging global challenges; and iii) to advocate for the global transformation of policies, practices and culture required to maximize the impact of digital innovation, minimize its risk of harm, and ensure pathways to scale and sustainability.

Task description

The software engineer will be responsible for designing, developing and implementing software plus handling all other activities of the software life cycle such as:

requirements gathering
code version control and testing
documentation of systems and user guidelines and handling any other tasks assigned by the supervisor.
Eligibility criteria

Age: 27 – 80

Nationality

Candidate must be a national or legal resident of the country of assignment.

Requirements

Required experience

3 years of experience in designing, developing software’s, gathering and analysis, software design, development, and deployment. Experience in python software development frameworks including Django or Flask, using version control systems like GitHub, unit testing and continuous integration, Software documentation and generation of content for user guidelines Knowledge in databases preferably SQL and MySQL, software security concepts and performance optimization techniques.

Area(s) of expertise

Administration, Engineering and construction , Development programmes

Driving license

–

Languages

English, Level: Fluent, Required

Required education level

Bachelor degree or equivalent in Software engineering, Computer science, Information Technology, Electrical engineering or related field. A master’s degree will be an added advantage.

Competencies and values

Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills;
Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing;
Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development;
Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel;
Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment;
Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines;
Sound security awareness;