Job Description

Position Title: IT Software and Database Specialist
Location: Kigutu, Burundi
Reports To: IT Manager or Director of Operations]
Number of Positions: 1
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Type: Full-time

Our core values are as follows:

● Every member of VHW’s team must value the dignity inherent in each individual, strive

for excellence in all we do, and approach our work with boldness and perseverance.

● Compassion and justice must be at the heart of our organization.

● To accomplish our organization's mission, we must all be accountable to one another and

our community.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated IT professional to serve as our IT Software and Database Specialist. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, development, optimization, and maintenance of software systems and databases that are integral to the organization’s operations, with a strong emphasis on reliability, performance, and security.

This position is key to supporting the rollout of OpenClinic and enhancing our billing and clinical data systems.

Key Responsibilities

Software Development and Management

• Design, code, test, and deploy software solutions to address business and clinical needs.

• Develop user interfaces and integrate third-party tools and APIs.

• Utilize programming languages such as Java, Python, C#, and SQL.

• Manage source code and software versions using tools like Git.

Database Design and Administration

• Design and implement efficient, secure database structures aligned with system requirements.

• Write and optimize complex SQL queries for data extraction, manipulation, and reporting.

• Monitor database performance and execute tuning strategies (indexing, partitioning, etc.).

• Manage backup and recovery procedures and ensure business continuity.

Security and Compliance

• Implement robust security measures to safeguard data.

• Ensure compliance with regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and internal data governance policies.

Support and Troubleshooting

• Provide technical support and maintenance for existing software applications and databases.

• Diagnose and resolve bugs and performance issues.

• Collaborate with internal teams to gather technical requirements and deliver solutions.

Continuous Improvement

• Stay up to date with emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies.

• Propose innovations to enhance workflow, system performance, and user experience.

Qualifications

Education, Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, or equivalent work experience.

• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in software development and database management.

• Proven experience with MySQL and PostgreSQL.

• Strong command of advanced SQL scripting and database communication protocols.

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

• Experience in software configuration, deployment, and maintenance.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent communication skills in English and French (spoken and written).

• Working knowledge of Kirundi is a plus.

Desirable

• Prior experience with healthcare information systems, particularly OpenClinic.

• Familiarity with Java-based development and healthcare billing systems.

• Experience working in low-resource or multicultural environments.

Languages

• Required: Fluency in English and French (written and spoken).

• Preferred: Working knowledge of Kirundi.

How to apply

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their complete application package, which should include a cover letter, an updated CV, certified copies of diplomas and training certificates, proof of experience (e.g., a Certificate of Service), and contact details for three professional references. Applications should be sent by email to jobs@villagehealthworks.org, with the subject line: “Application – IT Software and Database Specialist. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

We encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability status, or religion.