Ongoing Recruitment at The Open University of Kenya

Project Leader ICT – Software Engineering / Network Engineering

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Provide team leadership in the design, development, and implementation of university management information systems (MIS).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to systems development processes, tools, and team efficiency.
• Oversee the Design and implementation of short and long-term strategies/plans to ensure systems, network and telecommunications infrastructure meets existing and future requirements.
•  Oversee installation, configuration and maintenance of user application software, operating system software and internet communication system within the university network.
•  Provide team Leadership in the preparation of bid proposals and other documentation related to acquisition of systems/software solutions, network, telecommunications solutions, servers, and end-user infrastructure including negotiations with other service providers, vendors, and contractors to secure ICT infrastructure products and services.
• Implement and maintain a ICT asset management system for all University ICT hardware   and software inventory, network components and related documentation.
• Support the compliance to the business continuity policy by ensuring the supporting infrastructure is in place.
• Monitor service levels   of ICT service providers in line with established vendor contracts, SLAs and university ICT policies.
• Assist in the preparation of ICT department budgets in liaison with the director ICT.
• Provide team leadership within the department through professional staff performance management. 
• Formulation of technical and managerial reports to support university management in decision on matters pertaining to ICT Infrastructure services, systems and projects
• Carry out any other duties assigned by the Director, ICT 

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunications, engineering or a related field.
• Professional Certification: 
• Software Engineering Industry Certification

OR

• Industry certification in systems/network management: – CCNA/CCNP or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) or Certified Linux/Unix Administrator (advanced level)  
• Certification in Project Management or IT service Management (ITIL or CISA etc.) will be an added advantage 
• Experience: Minimum of eight (8) years proven hands-on experience implementing/supporting complex infrastructure functions OR software development and design experience – 5+ years of which one has experience in managing large software engineering projects and teams

Competencies and Attributes

• Deep technical knowledge of systems architecture, engineering principles, and best practices.
•  Experience in project management, application design and integration, and cloud computing
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-driven and Innovative

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Chief ICT Officer, Multimedia Development

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Gathering, documenting, and analyzing business requirements relating to the development or enhancement of ICT applications. 
• Developing and deploying business applications.
• Performing supervisory role.
• Coordinating the development, testing, and deployment of business applications;
• Ensuring the architectural design, development, customization, and integration efforts of the business applications. 
• Creating working relationships with the ICT Team, Applications users, Business Champions, Contracted Service Providers, and Consultants.
• Coordinate all phases of software development (from inception to deployment and maintenance within assigned groups). 
• Following-up and coordinating internal and external application development teams; 
• Playing a key role in coordinating with external contractors ensuring proper and correct delivery of technical solutions.  
• Setting up and configuring staging and production environments and organizing product-specific tests prior to production deployment. 
• Organizing the schedule of roll-outs and maintenance activities of software applications. 
• Administering support, training, and assistance to end users.
• Compiling test runs before deployment.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have:

For appointment to this grade, one MUST have: 

• Master’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business IT, Software Engineering, ICT Project Management, Computer Engineering, or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution;
• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Telecommunication engineering, or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution;
• Professional qualification and membership in Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), MCSE/ CCNA/ISACA (CISA/CISM/CRISC/CGEIT/ CCNE), Database Certification;
• Programming Language, Database management, or its equivalent from a recognized institution where applicable;
• At least three (3) years of relevant working experience in grade 11.
• Supervisory course lasting not less than two (2) weeks cumulatively;
• Fulfilled the requirements of Chapter 6 of the 2010 Constitution.

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Principal ICT Officer, Database Administration

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Design, develop, test, train and maintain scalable and efficient database storage solutions in line with emerging trends and best practices in database development and administration.
• Perform database monitoring, tuning, and performance optimization to ensure availability and performance of all database applications meet the recommended service levels.
• Develop technical solutions and new security tools to help mitigate database security vulnerabilities and automate repeatable tasks in the database administration.
• Perform regular security monitoring to identify any possible intrusions to avert data integrity compromise by ensuring that all databases and database servers within the University and the cloud are Secure.
• Perform regular database backup operations and implement appropriate strategies processes for data protection and disaster recovery procedures.
• Formulation of technical and managerial reports to support university management in decision on matters pertaining to data, systems and projects.
• Maintain documentation of data storage and operational procedures as per industry best practices.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering or a related field from a recognized University.
• Professional Certification:
  • Database administration certification (Professional level)
  • Oracle Certified DBA or Microsoft Certified DBA or IBM Certified DBA or other relevant DBA professional certification 
  • Systems administration certification:
    • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Certified Linux/Unix Administrator  
  • Any additional relevant ICT certifications.
• Minimum of three (3) years proven hands-on experience administering enterprise level databases in a high-availability network environment and, supporting private & public cloud computing infrastructure, resources, services, Storage and virtualization infrastructure.
• Competencies and Attributes
  • Experience with administration of windows and Linux/Unix server operating systems, enterprise databases backup and recovery procedures.
  • Knowledge of security approaches within cloud and data center infrastructure
  • Experience with Virtualization platform (VMware or  Proxmox or others)
  • Experience with Infrastructure performance monitoring tools.
  • Experience in project management, application design and integration, and cloud computing 
  • Proficiency in open-source database engines and tools.

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Senior ICT Officer, System Administration

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Manage the university data center infrastructure and systems through planning, deployment maintenance of servers and systems for efficient and effective university operations.
• Ensure connectivity to the data center and cloud services by staff and students is seamless.
• Work within established configuration and change management procedures to ensure awareness, approval and success of changes made to the systems and servers.
• Upgrade Data Center Hardware & Software/Operating Systems
• Develop technical solutions and new security tools to help mitigate security vulnerabilities and automate repeatable tasks in the data centers.
• Perform regular security monitoring to identify any possible intrusions to avert system compromise by ensuring that all systems within the University and the cloud are Secure.
• Perform regular backup operations and implement appropriate processes for data protection and disaster recovery procedures. 
• Resolve escalated Service Desk support requests.
• Provide advice on servers and systems related purchases. Interact and coordinate with vendors, suppliers, distributors, and contract consultants. Assist with negotiations and contracts, ensuring that data center related infrastructure purchases support the university business objectives while maintaining compliance with proven industry and corporate standards.
• Formulation of technical and managerial reports to support university management in decision on matters pertaining to data centers Infrastructure, systems and projects.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring of other team members to improve their skills.
• Maintain documentation of operational procedures and systems configuration as per industry best practices.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering or a related field.
• Professional Certification:
  • Systems administration certification:
  • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) 
  • Certified Linux/Unix Administrator  
  • Any additional relevant ICT certifications.
• Minimum of three (3) years proven hands-on experience administering data centre infrastructure in a high-availability network environment, supporting private & public cloud computing infrastructure, resources, services, Storage and virtualization infrastructure.
• Competencies and Attributes
  • Experience with windows and Linux/Unix server operating systems, current equipment and technologies, enterprise backup and recovery procedures.
  • Experience with Active Directories, DNS, Remote Access (VPN).
  • Experience with Virtualization platform (VMware or Proxmox or others)
  • Experience with Infrastructure performance monitoring tools.
  • Experience in project management, application design and integration, and cloud computing

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Senior ICT Officer, Network Security and Administration

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Manage the University network infrastructure, including but not limited to wired and wireless LAN, Wide Area Network.
• Ensure connectivity to the data center and cloud services by staff and students.
• Participate in network and infrastructure base lining, planning, design, testing, deployment, and modification.
• Oversee deployment of highly available data Centre infrastructure for running the Open University of Kenya systems and services.
• Manage the critical network infrastructure and security services including but not limited to Internet services, Telephony, Printing, Cloud Infrastructure, Active Directory, Remote Access VPNs, Firewalls, End-point security, Network Access Control, Privileged Access Management, SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), Patch management.
• Lead or Participate in the development of IT policies, processes, procedures, and controls that guarantee ICT infrastructure security, data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
• Conduct proactive research to analyze security weaknesses and recommend appropriate strategies.
• Work within established configuration and change management procedures to ensure awareness, approval, and success of changes made to the network infrastructure.
• Resolve escalated Service Desk support requests.
• Provide advice on ICT network-related purchases. Interact and coordinate with vendors, suppliers, distributors, and contract consultants. Assist with negotiations and contracts, ensuring that IT network purchases support the university’s business objectives while maintaining compliance with proven industry and corporate standards.
• Support compliance with the business continuity policy by ensuring that the supporting infrastructure is in place.
• Monitor the service levels of network service providers to ensure they are in line with established vendor contracts, SLAs, and university ICT policies.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring of other team members to improve their skills.
• Formulation of technical and managerial reports to support university management in decisions on matters pertaining to network Infrastructure services, systems and projects.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering, or a related field from an accredited and recognized University.
• Professional Certification in Network administration certification (CCNA or higher highly valued, HCNP, etc.), Cyber Security certifications (CISSP, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security+, etc.), and IT service Management and best practice (ITIL or CISA, etc.) 
• Minimum of six (6) years of proven hands-on experience administering network architecture and infrastructure in a high-availability network environment, supporting network cloud management platforms, Storage, and virtualization infrastructure.
• Network infrastructure skills: Internet Services, LAN & WAN (Cisco, Huawei, HP, Juniper Networking), Advanced routing and switching, Enterprise Wireless Management, and Infrastructure monitoring tools.
• Experience with Next Generation Firewalls and IPS/IDS; – Fort iGATE firewalls is a plus Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Remote Access (VPN), Virtualization (VMware, proxmox, Docker), Linux and Windows Server Systems.

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Senior ICT Officer, Web Development

The Duties And Responsibilities Entail:

• Develop both front-end and back-end components of web applications, ensuring seamless integration between the client and server sides.
• Design and implement robust application architectures and frameworks.
• Create dynamic and responsive user interfaces using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern front-end frameworks.
• Build and maintain server-side applications using languages and frameworks such as Node.js, Python, or Java.
• Design, create, and maintain databases, ensuring efficient data storage and retrieval.
• Develop and maintain RESTful services and APIs to support front-end functionality and data exchange.
• Write and perform unit, integration, and end-to-end tests, as well as debug issues across the stack.
• Implement CI/CD pipelines for automated testing, deployment, and delivery processes.
• Implement security measures to protect applications from vulnerabilities and ensure data privacy.
• Work closely with designers, developers, and project managers to define requirements and timelines.
• Conduct code reviews and create documentation for code, APIs, and application processes.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering, or a related field from an accredited and recognized University.
• Experience developing web and mobile applications
• Familiarity with common stacks
• Knowledge of multiple front-end languages and libraries (e.g. HTML/ CSS, JavaScript, XML, jQuery)
• Knowledge of multiple back-end languages Java, Python and JavaScript frameworks Angular, React, Node.js
• Familiarity with databases MySQL, MongoDB, web servers, Apache and UI/UX design
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Great attention to detail
• Organizational skills

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ICT Officer, Full Stack Development

The Duties And Responsibilities Entail:

• Develop both front-end and back-end components of web applications, ensuring seamless integration between the client and server sides.
• Design and implement robust application architectures and frameworks.
• Create dynamic and responsive user interfaces using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern front-end frameworks.
• Build and maintain server-side applications using languages and frameworks such as Node.js, Python, or Java.
• Design, create, and maintain databases, ensuring efficient data storage and retrieval.
• Develop and maintain RESTful services and APIs to support front-end functionality and data exchange.
• Write and perform unit, integration, and end-to-end tests, as well as debug issues across the stack.
• Implement CI/CD pipelines for automated testing, deployment, and delivery processes.
• Implement security measures to protect applications from vulnerabilities and ensure data privacy.
• Work closely with designers, developers, and project managers to define requirements and timelines.
• Conduct code reviews and create documentation for code, APIs, and application processes.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering, or a related field from an accredited and recognized University.
• Experience developing web and mobile applications
• Familiarity with common stacks
• Knowledge of multiple front-end languages and libraries (e.g. HTML/ CSS, JavaScript, XML, jQuery)
• Knowledge of multiple back-end languages Java, Python and JavaScript frameworks Angular, React, Node.js
• Familiarity with databases MySQL, MongoDB, web servers, Apache and UI/UX design
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Great attention to detail
• Organizational skills

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ICT Officer, ICT System Support – 3 Posts

The Duties And Responsibilities Entail:

• Creating materials and presentations for training and reports.
• Performing routine system administrative tasks.
• Creating and maintaining inventory, which may include hardware, software, and various items such as laser printer cartridges and peripheral equipment.
• Assisting with the preparation of operating budgets based on estimated and actual expenditures for ICT.
• Setting up the computer prior to the new staff start date and any related moves.
• Handling the relocation of computer equipment because of office or personnel changes.
• Setting up new user accounts and email accounts.
• Troubleshooting system issues such as repairing user accounts and email accounts.
• Conducting preventive maintenance on ICT equipment.
• Receiving and responding to internal customer support requests via the ICT Service desk, ICT Hotline, emails and walk-in support.;
• Installation, configuration and ongoing usability tuning of desktop computers, peripherals equipment and software within established standards and guidelines;
• Troubleshooting and resolution of technical problems with operating systems;
• Installation and upgrades of Anti-virus, anti-malware and anti-spam as well as support;
• Preventive maintenance on hardware equipment and record keeping.
• Update and keep record of Incidents log and escalate to the relevant ICT staff and;
• Coordinates repairs of hardware with external service providers;
• Develop training materials to be used for training and orientation of staff on use of hardware, operating system and company telephones.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering, or a related field from an accredited and recognized University.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Computer literate in MS Office and other office applications
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to dissimilate information in a simple clear manner
• Ability to multitask and prioritise to meet deadlines

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ICT Officer, Curators/ Learner Support Assistants – 2 Posts

The Duties And Responsibilities Entail:

• Identify, select, and organize high-quality educational content aligned with learning objectives.
• Collaborate with instructors to design and update online courses and learning modules.
• Enhance learning experiences by incorporating videos, audio, and interactive activities.
• Provide timely support to learners, addressing technical issues and guiding them through the LMS.
• Foster an online learning community by facilitating discussions and moderating forums.
• Manage daily LMS operations, including user accounts and course setup.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to the LMS.
• Track and analyze learner progress using LMS analytics to identify trends.
• Ensure online content complies with educational standards and accessibility best practices.
• Pursue professional development and implement innovative strategies to enhance online education.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have: 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Telecommunication engineering, or a related field from an accredited and recognized University.
• Be adaptable and flexible
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent research and IT skills.
• A balance between team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are required.

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ICT Officer, Research Assistant

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Supervising students on practical lessons.
• Conducting lab experimentation, data analytics, and simulation.
• Participating in research and publication.
• Participating in outreach activities to disseminate knowledge and technologies.
• Developing proposals to source funding and solve societal challenges.
• Making available research findings for publication in academic journals.
• Mentoring students on project activities and life skills.
• Participating in the administration of assessments and examinations.

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business IT, Software Engineering, ICT Project Management, Computer Engineering, or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution 
• Be expected to register for a relevant Master’s degree
• Be registered or registerable with a relevant professional body (where applicable)
• Fulfilled the requirements of Chapter 6 of the 2010 Constitution.

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Assistant ICT Officer (Maintenance)

The Duties And Responsibilities Shall Include But Are Not Limited To:

• Prepare PCs for users by installing required and standard software.
• Troubleshoot and repair ICT equipment, software, and accessories.
• Maintain records on the repairs and maintenance of different equipment
• Troubleshoot and repair network equipment and accessories.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Manager. 

For Appointment To This Grade, One MUST Have:

• Diploma in either Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Computer Science, or equivalent qualifications from a recognized learning institution or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution with a Minimum KCSE C or its equivalent;
• At least three (3) years of computer networks and equipment support services experience.
• Possess the following: technical skills in maintenance of communication infrastructure and peripherals; sound systems analytical and diagnostic skills; PC Security and software installation and configuration skills; effective communication; and good interpersonal skills.;
• Fulfill the requirements of Chapter 6 of the 2010 Constitution of Kenya.

Method of Application

All applicants should;

• Submit their application online through the specific links provided:
• Attach: Application Letter, a detailed Curriculum Vitae indicating (academic qualifications, professional experience, academic leadership, list of publications, awards, scholarships, funding, membership to professional associations or bodies and linkages, valid email addresses, telephone contacts), Certified copies of Certificates, National ID, and other testimonials;
• Provide names, telephone numbers and contact addresses of three referees and ensure that you submit all reference letters as single scanned pdf file.

NOTE: The Terms of Service will be either Permanent and Pensionable or Contract, as shall be determined by the University Council.

Open University of Kenya (OUK) is an equal opportunity employer and, therefore, applicants of either gender, persons with disabilities and those from marginalized areas are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should submit their applications so as to be received on or before 25th June, 2024. Any form of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interested and qualified?

Go to The Open University of Kenya on dacc.ouk.ac.ke to apply