IT OFFICER - DIGITAL SKILLS CENTRE

Date: 12 Feb 2025

Location: Accra, Ghana

Company: Plan International

The Organisation

 

Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organisation that advances children’s rights and equality for girls. We believe in the power and potential of every child but know this is often suppressed by poverty, violence, exclusion and discrimination. And it is girls who are most affected.

 

Working together with children, young people, supporters and partners, we strive for a just world, tackling the root causes of the challenges girls and vulnerable children face. We support children’s rights from birth until they reach adulthood and we enable children to prepare for and respond to crises and adversity. We drive changes in practice and policy at local, national and global levels using our reach, experience and knowledge.

 

For over 85 years, we have rallied other determined optimists to transform the lives of all children in more than 80 countries.

 

We won’t stop until we are all equal.

 

THE OPPORTUNITY

Plan International Ghana is looking to recruit an experienced and qualified professional to join its ranks as IT Officer to provide technical oversight and expertise on its Innovation Technology Project’s Digital Skills Centre

 

ABOUT YOU

The IT Officer will be responsible for managing and supporting the IT infrastructure and systems at the Digital Skills Centre. This includes ensuring the proper functioning of hardware, software, networks, and other digital resources used to deliver digital literacy programs. The role also involves providing technical support to staff and learners, maintaining security protocols, and assisting in the development of digital training materials.

 

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

The Project Accounts Coordinator will be responsible for but not limited the following areas:

 

1.            IT Infrastructure Management:

•             Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of hardware and software.

•             Ensure reliable operation of computers, servers, printers, and other digital equipment.

•             Manage network systems, including routers, switches, and firewalls.

•             Ensure efficient and secure access to digital resources for staff and learners.

 

2.            Technical Support and Troubleshooting:

•             Provide first-line technical support to staff, trainers, and learners.

•             Troubleshoot hardware and software issues, ensuring quick resolution.

•             Offer guidance and training on using digital tools and platforms effectively.

•             Set up and configure workstations, ensuring compatibility with software programs.

 

3.            Security and Data Protection:

•             Implement and maintain cybersecurity protocols to safeguard digital assets.

•             Ensure regular backups of critical systems and data.

•             Monitor systems for security breaches and ensure compliance with relevant privacy regulations.

 

4.            Training and Development:

•             Assist in the development and updating of digital training materials.

•             Provide hands-on training and support to staff and learners on IT systems, digital tools, and e-learning platforms.

•             Collaborate with instructors to integrate technology into digital literacy courses.

 

5.            System and Software Management:

•             Oversee the installation, configuration, and updates of software applications.

•             Ensure all systems are up-to-date and functioning optimally for learning activities.

•             Evaluate and recommend new digital tools or software to enhance learning programs.

 

6.            Project Management:

•             Assist in the planning and implementation of IT-related projects, such as software upgrades or new hardware installations.

•             Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of IT resources and provide feedback for improvements.

 

7.            Documentation and Reporting:

•             Maintain accurate records of IT inventories, licenses, and equipment.

•             Prepare regular reports on system performance, technical support issues, and progress on IT-related projects.

 

8.            Collaboration and Communication:

•             Work closely with the Project management team and instructors to ensure technology aligns with educational objectives.

•             Communicate technical information to non-technical users in a clear and understandable manner.

 

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

The required skills and competencies for the candidate are:

 

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field.

 

Experience:

At least 2-3 years of experience in IT support or related roles, preferably in educational or training environments.

 

Technical Skills: 

•             Strong knowledge of computer hardware, software, and networking.

•             Experience with troubleshooting and resolving hardware/software issues.

•             Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) and e-learning tools.

•             Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices.

•             Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, cloud platforms, and basic programming knowledge is a plus.

 

Soft Skills: 

•             Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

•             Good communication skills to work with diverse groups.

•             Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.

•             Patience and the ability to explain technical issues to non-technical users.

 

 Desirable

•             Availability to work flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the Digital Skills Center.

•             Willingness to stay updated on emerging technologies and trends in digital education.

 

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

The IT Officer will work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, closely interacting with both technical teams and educators. The role may require occasional travel to different campuses or training centres for setup or support tasks.

By ensuring smooth operation of all IT systems, the IT Officer plays a critical role in empowering individuals with digital skills to enhance their career prospects and contribute to the organization's mission.

 

LEVEL OF CONTACT WITH CHILDREN

Low contact- the job responsibilities of this position does not require the post holder to have frequent contact with children. There would be occasional contact with children and it is expected that children shall be protected at all times.

 

Please click on this link to view the full job profile and job description for the roleFull Job Description - IT Officer (DSC) - 2025.docx

 

Location: Accra

Type of Role: Information Technology

Reports to: Project Manager

Job Type: Fixed Term Contract

Closing Date: 26th February, 2025

 

Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the very heart of everything that Plan International stands for.

 

We want Plan International to reflect the diversity of the communities we work with, offering equal opportunities to everyone regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

 

Plan International is based on a culture of inclusivity and we strive to create a workplace environment that ensures every team, in every office, in every country, is rich in diverse people, thoughts, and ideas.

 

We foster an organisational culture that embraces our commitment to racial justice, gender equality, girls’ rights and inclusion.

 

Plan International believes that in a world where children face so many threats of harm, it is our duty to ensure that we, as an organisation, do everything we can to keep children safe. This means that we have particular responsibilities to children that we come into contact with and we must not contribute in any way to harming or placing children at risk.

 

A range of pre-employment checks will be undertaken in conformity with Plan International's Safeguarding Children and Young People policy. Plan International also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this scheme we will request information from applicants previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

Please note that Plan International will never send unsolicited emails requesting payment from candidates.