Database Specialist

The International Development Law Organization (IDLO) enables governments and empowers people to reform laws and strengthen institutions to promote peace, justice, sustainable development and economic opportunity. We contribute to creating stable and inclusive societies where every person can live free from fear and want, in dignity and under the rule of law.

The Database Specialist will work under the supervision of the M&R Manager and be responsible for managing the databases developed for the IDLO’s partner institutions.  The Database Specialist will also work directly, and/or supervise partner organizations to build the capacity to manage and use of relevant databases.

Functions / Key results expected

Summary of functions:

• Database management/modification and transition
• Coordination with IDLO’s teams and partners
• Training and coaching

Key results expected:

• Manage/modify/upgrade databases developed in the previous projects for partner institutions in accordance with the reporting needs of the partner institutions and the MEL plan.
• Create interoperability of all existing databases developed for partner institutions to collect and track data.
• In coordination with the management of the partner institutions, create a plan to ensure transition of databases to the counterparts.
• Develop and revise the guidelines/user manual of the databases.
• Work   with   counterparts to improve the data collection, data entry and data categorization within the systems.   
• Improve data analysis, reporting and information dissemination of data by working closely with the staff members of partner institutions.
• Coordinate with M&R team members, project teams, and core teams to share results of the data analysis and secure their agreement on the reports to be shared with the donor, IDLO management and government partners.
• Conduct regular and routine data quality checks to ensure data are accurately recorded according to the database functionality.
• Backup the database regularly and perform recovery, if needed.

Carry out any other relevant duties within the overall function as assigned by the line manager.

Impact of results

The Database Specialist will work in close coordination with the M&R Manager to manage modification and transition of databases and provide guidance to M&R database team on regular coaching to partner institutions.

The key results have an impact on the overall performance of the M&R Team, success in implementation of program strategies and ultimately advancing IDLO’s work in promoting the Rule of Law.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Master’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, and Management Information System.
• Demonstrated skills in online database development.
• Excellent skills of data analysis of complex datasets.
• Problem-solving and good analytical skills.
• Knowledge of legal terminology will be an asset.
• Be available to travel in Afghanistan for short periods of time.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to see through tasks set and deliver results.
• Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines, flexibility, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Keen sense of ethics, integrity, and commitment to IDLO’s mandate.

More specifically, the candidate will be expected to possess the following technical skills:

• Proficient in PHP Frameworks: Demonstrated expertise in developing robust and scalable web applications using Laravel and CodeIgniter. This includes implementing best practices for security, performance optimization, and maintaining high code quality through adherence to coding standards.
• Full Software Development Lifecycle: Extensive experience in managing the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC), encompassing requirements gathering, system design, development, testing, deployment, and post-launch support. Successfully led the development of two software products, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with user needs.
• SQL Query Development: Strong proficiency in SQL query development, including complex joins, subqueries, and stored procedures, to efficiently retrieve and manipulate data. Adept at optimizing queries to enhance application performance and reduce load times, contributing to a seamless user experience.
• Ad Hoc Report Generation: Skilled in generating ad hocreports tailored to meet specific business requirements. Utilizes SQL queries to create dynamic reports and data visualizations, enabling stakeholders to gain actionable insights for informed decision-making.
• Front-End Development Skills: Proficient in front-end technologies, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, to create responsive and user-friendly interfaces. Experience with front-end frameworks like Vue.js or Bootstrap, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing user experience that integrates seamlessly with back-end functionality.
• Version Control and Collaboration: Proficient in using Git for version control, enabling effective collaboration within the development team. Experienced in implementing branching strategies, conducting code reviews, and ensuring smooth integration of code changes, thereby fostering a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork.

Education:

• Master’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, and Management Information System. Knowledge of rule of law in Afghanistan will be an asset. If the candidate does not hold a master’s degree, an additional 2 years of relevant experience is required.

Experience:

• 5 years relevant experience preferably in an NGO or international organization

Language Requirements:

• Professional proficiency in written and spoken Dari and/or Pashto, and English is essential. Fluency in all three languages is required.

IDLO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in all areas of its operations. We welcome applications of qualified and diverse candidates.

IDLO is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance at all levels within its workforce. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for IDLO vacancies.

IDLO does not tolerate sexual exploitation or abuse, any kind of harassment, including harassment of a sexual nature, or discrimination. As such, IDLO will conduct careful reference and background checks of all selected candidates as part of its selection process.

The application deadline is 13 November 2024 (00.00 Hrs. Kabul time)