IT & Information Management Assistant (N-MAL-26-06)

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a proactive and service-oriented IT & Information Management Assistant to support the implementation of project information management systems and provide first-level IT support for the Malawi office. About the Initiative: CIP is implementing a four-year project on Market-led Transformation of the Root and Tuber Crops Subsector in Malawi (RTC MARKET) program, 2023 – 2027. The goal of the project is to sustainably increase the contribution of the RTC subsector to the national economy, food and nutrition security, incomes, and employment creation through commercialization of the subsector. It aims to transform and commercialize the RTC subsector by increasing private sector participation in the RTC value chains. The RTC-Market Project plans to reach at least 60,000 value chain actors with market-led interventions by end of the four years. The project will be implemented in the following districts: Nsanje, Mulanje, Blantyre, Lilongwe, Zomba, Mangochi and Salima for OFSP; Dedza, Ntcheu, Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzimba, Mchinji, Dowa and Ntchisi for potato; and Mzimba, Lilongwe, Kasungu, Blantyre, Salima, Zomba, Nkhota-kota and Nkhata-Bay for cassava. About the role: The position will ensure that project data, digital tools, and local IT infrastructure operate efficiently while providing timely technical assistance to staff. The position will also support project reporting through database management, data visualization, and graphic design for communication products. This position will be based in Malawi and will report administratively to the Project Manager and Crop Management Specialist and technically to the Regional IT Officer based in Nairobi, ensuring alignment with CIP's global IT standards, policies, and cybersecurity requirements. Key responsibilities: · Information Management: o Support maintaining the RTC-Market project information management system and related databases, ensuring data accuracy, integrity, and accessibility. o Support in the development and improvement of digital data collection tools and workflows to facilitate project monitoring and reporting. o Support data entry, validation, analysis, and generation of reports for project monitoring and donor reporting requirements. o Assist the Project Manager and Crop Management Specialist in preparing technical reports, presentations, dashboards, and communication materials. o Design graphic materials, infographics, and visual products to support project communication and knowledge sharing. · IT Support o Provide first-level technical support to office users for hardware, software, printers, mobile devices, audiovisual equipment, and standard business applications. o Install, configure, and maintain desktops, laptops, peripherals, and approved software following CIP IT standards. o Monitor local network connectivity and perform routine maintenance of networking equipment under the guidance of the Regional IT Officer. o Ensure local devices receive software updates, patches, antivirus protection, and security configurations according to CIP policies. o Escalate complex technical issues to the Regional IT Officer through established IT support procedures. o Maintain an updated inventory of local IT assets and assist with equipment procurement, deployment, replacement, and disposal. o Support implementation of regional IT initiatives, digital tools, and system upgrades within the Malawi office. o Promote good cybersecurity practices among users and support compliance with CIP information security policies. o Perform any other duties assigned by the Programme Manager or the Regional IT Officer. Requirements What are we looking for? · Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field. · Minimum 1 year of relevant professional experience in IT support, database administration, or information management. · Experience managing project databases and information management systems. · Experience developing digital data collection tools (ODK, KoboToolbox, SurveyCTO, Microsoft Forms, or similar platforms is desirable). · Experience in data analysis, report generation, and dashboard preparation. · Experience in providing first-level IT technical support in a corporate environment. · Experience with Microsoft 365 applications and Windows operating systems. · Experience in graphic design using tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar software is desirable. · Experience supporting local area networks, printers, and office IT equipment. · Languages: Excellent written and spoken English. Benefits Why should you consider this opportunity? · CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background. · CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improving nutrition and well-being, and gender equity for poor people in roots, tubers farming and food systems in the developing world. · CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global partnership that unites international organizations engaged in research about food security. CGIAR research aims to reduce rural poverty, increase food security, improve human health and nutrition, and sustainable management of natural resources. What are we offering? · Fixed term contract with possibility of renewal. · Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience. · Excellent working environment. · Work in an equal and diverse workplace.