IT Specialist (m/f)

Description

• GIZ – part of German Development Cooperation is a German company that offers services worldwide in international cooperation for sustainable development
• IT and digital tools are used extensively by the GIZ employees to achieve its business objectives. Consequently, service providers to GIZ in the field of IT ensure that all relevant IT systems are working as they should and in compliance with applicable rules and regulations
• The GIZ main office in Maputo is equipped with a complex and diverse technical infrastructure. Regarding hardware this includes laptops, desktops PCs, printers, scanners and a local area network. The office infrastructure on the different locations includes about 200 computers and laptops, several switches, Wi-Fi routers and servers as well as printers and scanners. All in all there are currently (2021) almost 300 IT devices in use by the staff and the all offices

Duties

• The tasks of the “IT specialist” cover IT support to all GIZ staff and projects on the different locations
• The “IT specialist” is responsible for everyday support and maintenance of the IT infrastructure, including the data network, servers, PCs and laptops as well as any other digital equipment. All software products and IT hardware must be kept up to date and technical assistance must be provided to GIZ staff regarding IT and database related issues
• The “IT specialist” is required to observe all GIZ guidelines and the legal regulations in force in Mozambique
• Is responsible for the full functionality of the IT infrastructure, either hardware or software, of the GIZ staff in the different offices and locations. The need of assistance might vary slightly
• The capacity for guidance and support to users in Windows 365 and MS-Office programs would be beneficial
• The support is rendered remotely as well as in-person at the various locations
• The “IT specialist” plans, monitors and personally engages in IT and user support as well as supervises the external additional IT support to GIZ and manages IT related change projects initiated by GIZ Headquarters in Germany
• Specifically, this position includes the following tasks

Hardware tasks

• Purchasing, installing and maintaining hardware (notebooks, printers, digital cameras, scanners, servers and all PCs) in accordance with current GIZ standards
• Ensuring hardware (laptops, servers and all PCs) are up-to-date and in line with current GIZ standards
• Looking after the maintenance of PCs, laptops, printers, digital cameras, scanners and other hardware devices
• Configuring and maintaining network switches, routers, firewalls and access points
• Ensuring proper operations in the server room by mounting the critical network hardware in a rack and installing an uninterruptable power supply
• Keeping the system, network and hardware documentation up-to-date, including the data entries in the Digital Readiness Panel (DRP)
• Taking on and carrying out repairs, independently undertaking repairs that can be done locally
• Monitoring the state of hardware and software in use
• Identifying options for upgrading existing systems and peripherals and discussing proposals for required new hardware/network purchases or improvements with the GIZ administrative manager
• Purchasing and improving hardware and networks:
• Testing new hardware systems and based on these results the recommendations for the purchase of new systems
• Upgrading of existing IT systems and accessories
• Configuring and installing newly delivered equipment, this includes:
• Installing the equipment in the location required by a user
• Connecting the equipment
• Checking it functions correctly and
• Providing users with brief operating instructions
• Possibly the decommissioning of old equipment

Software tasks

• Installing operating systems and configuring servers and client PCs in line with GIZ standards, and documenting the configuration of servers and workstations
• Installing software released for GIZ use on workstation PCs/laptops
• Maintains all GIZ standards and custom software used in the field structure (e.g. MS Office, APS, AMS, WINPACCS, SAP, Payroll, Skype for Business)
• Maintains systems documentation and update all software with the latest versions, while observing GIZ standards
• Testing and purchasing new or enhanced software
• User support in software usage upon request and support to GIZ in raising digital literacy of GIZ staff with user advice and trainings

Local network tasks

• Configuring and maintaining the LAN (Local Area Network), while observing GIZ standards
• Secure configuration of the wireless LAN
• Configuring the firewall
• Monitoring the performance of the Internet connections and devise strategies for bandwidth management to ensure maximum uptime

Operational support tasks

• Developing/updating a backup strategy
• Regularly backing up all user data and restoring backed up data on request
• Backing up and restoring data when PCs are exchanged
• Consulting with suppliers/vendors in order to guarantee the functioning of the network, phone system and computer hardware
• Monitoring the market for quality and value and assuming responsibility for procuring computer equipment
• Incorporates market developments on relevant IT issues on his/her own initiative

IT Security

• Helps monitor vulnerabilities in the communications networks used to ensure data leaks are prevented
• Helps design and monitor existing set up to ensure compliance to GIZ IT and data security regulations
• Helps regularly update antivirus software and relevant operating system updates/patches to ensure a secure working environment
• Regularly informs and sensitize users of the threat of malicious programs since everyone must abide by the basic rules of conduct to reduce the risk of malware. (Files from untrusted sources must not be opened)
• Helps maintain user permissions and access to a local shared filing system
• Helps in data backup to ensure possibility of total recovery

General tasks

• Carrying out general administrative tasks for the entire IT system in accordance with the with the GIZ administrative manager
• Backs up data and safeguards the system against hackers
• Rectifying faults/resolving problems relating to computers and the Internet preparing all the necessary information and providing support over the phone
• Ensuring an emergency service is available
• Maintains a list of all hardware and software systems, and updates this to reflect changes
• Documents the installation and settings on the server and on all computers
• Ensures that IT on site is up to date according to GIZ IT guidelines
• Keep in contact with the GIZ IT Department “DIGITS” in GIZ headquarter by attending GIZ IT Professional Workshops, participating in O365 Teams and consulting the GIZ IT Guidelines & Policies on a regular basis

Other/additional tasks

• Providing support for other project activities and tasks or carrying
• These out, in line with instructions
• Manages IT related change projects initiated by GIZ Headquarters in Germany in consultation with the GIZ management
• Taking part in training courses as required, according to the position held or tasks assigned. Training requirements will be identified together with the administrative manager, and suitable training courses selected
• Provide in house training for any relevant topic if required
• Supervision of external IT support to GIZ

Requisites

• At least 3 years’ experience in a similar position
• Basic understanding of:
• The Internet (IP, DNS, HTTP, SMTP)
• Network routing and switching WLAN protocols
• Problem analysis (tcpview, Wireshark)
• Certified IT knowledge: the configuration, administration and operation of:
• Certification for Microsoft Windows Server 2012/2016, Windows 10 and MS Office 2016/365 or equivalent experience
• Outstanding knowledge of IT hardware and software used, computer network systems, database software, network security
• Ideally, knowledge of GIZ systems and specific GIZ software (SAP, WINPACCS, etc.)
• LANs
• Internet connections
• SQL-Server (Microsoft et al)
• Hardware (PCs, printers, routers etc.)
• Basic knowledge of:
• SAP-GUI
• GIZ in-house developments (SAP, APS, AMS, WinPACCS, etc.)
• Other qualifications:
• Outstanding working knowledge of ITC technologies (related software, phone, fax, email, the internet) and computer applications (e.g. MS Office)
• Very good spoken Portuguese and English, German preferable
• Very good communication skills
• Well organized willingness to upskill as required by the tasks to be performed – corresponding measures are agreed with management
• Honest and trustworthy

Notes

• Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
• The initial contract duration is envisaged for a period of 24 months (start envisaged from latest 01.03.2022)