Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) is a U.S. non-profit organization dedicated to creating, evaluating, and replicating innovative solutions to poverty and policy problems worldwide. IPA specializes in using randomized impact evaluation to assess the effectiveness of development programs.

Job Summary

Summary:
IPA is seeking an IT Specialist who will oversee all IPA Ghana IT systems. The position will be based in Accra, with frequent travel to Tamale to provide IT support services to Tamale office staff. The IT Specialist will be responsible for the administration of IPA Ghana IT systems and making sure that all IT systems are safe and secure. He/she will be in constant communication with, and make recommendations about new technologies and equipment to the IT Director and the IPA Ghana management team.
In particular the IT Specialist will;

•  Be responsible for purchases of all IT related equipment such as routers, new laptops, desktops, printers, scanners and photocopiers;
•  Provide day-to-day technical assistance to project and administrative staff;
•  Implement open DNS Application and deploy DHCP server;
•  Provide timely remote assistance to project teams and administrative staff via virtual remote software.
•  Provide technical support to field teams.
•  Monitor printer cartridge usage, install and manage network printers, WAN and LAN connectivity, routers and firewalls.
•  Troubleshooting IT related problems.
•  Install configure and manage Cisco switches and wireless routers. Monitor internet bandwidth, restrict and limit internet access to unauthorized users through the use of software firewalls.
•  Create and delete email accounts and solving other email related problem.
•  Design and manage databases in Microsoft Access 2010, Virtual Basic Application (VBA), SQL and V.Net.
•  Configure Microsoft SharePoint Workspace 2010 and Microsoft 2008.
•  Install and configure computer hardware, software, systems, networks, printers and scanners.
•  Manage stock of equipment, consumables and other supplies.
•  Provide Hard Drive disaster recovery solutions
•  Provide basic remote access solutions
•  Implement and support: VPN and terminal Services.
•  Maintain systems documentation and review in company tools
•  Add and delete users, assign permissions, set up and manage FTP (Files Transfer Protocol) sites

Qualification Required & Experience

Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities Required:

•  A first degree, HND or higher certificate in IT
•  Advanced understanding of computer hardware and software systems.
•  Ability to multi-task and adapt to changes quickly
•  Understanding of support tools, techniques, and how technology is used to provide IT services
•  Experience with Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems
•  Knowledge in computer networks, network installation and administration
•  Experience in computer troubleshooting
•  Experience with computer viruses and security
•  Experience with email and internet programs
•  Experience conducting staff trainings.
•  Demonstrated programming skills in MS Access
•  Experience with creation and management of databases
•  High proficiency in Word and Excel
•  Demonstrated experience in budgeting and financial management.
•  Self-motivated and ability to work in a fast paced environment
•  3 years’ experience in an IT firm or equivalent
•  Willingness to commit to a 3 year position.

Location: Accra

How To Apply For The Job

To apply, follow these instructions exactly:

•  Compose an email with this subject line: IPA Ghana IT Specialist: Firstname Lastname.
•  Attach both your cover letter and CV in Word or PDF format. Do not send any other attachments.
•  Send the email and attachments to: jobs-ghana@poverty-action.org.

Closing Date: 08 February 2013

Due to the high volume of applications received by IPA, only those candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted by email or phone.