Software Developer

Job Title: Software Developer
Reports To: Systems and Cyber Security Team Lead
Department: ICT Division: Finance, Legal And ICT
Location: Absa Towers

JOB PURPOSE STATEMENT

The job holder is responsible for designing, developing and maintaining robust software systems, including:

• Software system development
• Improving system reliability and supporting the ICT department in achieving its objectives.
• Code reviews.
• Resolving technical issues to support the team’s overall productivity and success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Software Systems Development: Develop scalable and efficient software systems that meet business needs and handle growth.
• Software Systems Maintenance: Maintain existing systems and implement security measures to protect systems from vulnerabilities and threats.
• User Support: Facilitate user satisfaction through collaboration with relevant stakeholders and adhering to best practices and
• Innovation and Continuous improvement: Innovate new ideas to improve developed processes.
• Reporting and Documentation: Create systems and projects documentation processes.
• Any other responsibilities assigned.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Effective use of project management tools
• Scalable software systems.
• Efficient and high-quality codes

MAIN ACTIVITIES

Software Systems Development (25%)

• Design and build software solutions that can handle growing volume of data and user interactions without compromising performance.
• Gather requirements for designing system architecture, and coding with scalability in mind.
• Carry out effective Business reviews with users
• Document comprehensive Business Review Documentation
• mplement security measures by incorporating best practices such as encryption, access controls, and secure coding practices.
• Carry out unit testing for solutions developed.
• Carry out user testing.
• Ensure effective system integration.

Software Systems Maintenance (25%)

• Continuously monitor and review existing software systems to identify and address bugs or performance issues.
• Implement fixes and improvements to resolve problems and prevent recurring issues.
• Perform routine maintenance, update software components, and testing for potential issues.
• Implement security measures through the software development process to protect systems from potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Regularly review and update security protocols to address new and emerging threats.
• Analyze and improve database performance by optimizing queries, indexing strategies, and schema designs.
• Ensure that database interactions are efficient and do not create performance bottlenecks for applications.
• Monitor database performance and make adjustments as needed to enhance overall application efficiency and responsiveness.
• Regularly evaluate and adjust the system to accommodate increasing demands and enhance overall efficiency.
• Fixing bugs and optimizing performance
• Enhance database performance and queries

Code Reviews (10%)

• Review code to ensure it meets quality standards and follows coding conventions.
• Evaluate code for efficiency, readability, and maintainability.
• Provide feedback and suggest improvements to ensure consistency and adherence to best practices.
• Identify potential errors, bugs, or vulnerabilities before they become issues in production.
• Share feedback, best practices, and involve mentees in various stages of the development lifecycle.
• Recommend secure coding practices to safeguard the application.
• Address any issues or potential risks before code is merged into the main codebase.

User Support (10%)

• Participate in meetings and discussions to align development efforts with broader business goals, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments to software projects.
•  Collaborate with users to align software solutions with business goals.

Innovation and Continuous improvement (10%)

• Stay updated with the latest technologies, frameworks, and tools that could enhance the development process or improve product offerings.
• Conduct feasibility studies and present findings to stakeholders.
• Streamline development processes, through automation, adopting new tools, or refining existing workflows.
• Develop prototypes for new features or products.
• Provide constructive feedback during retrospectives or team meetings to help refine development practices, tool usage, and team workflows.
• Actively participate in initiatives that aim to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance the overall development process.
• Participate in regular code reviews with peers to identify and rectify issues early in the development process, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Reporting and Documentation (10%)

• Create documentation for system architecture, design decisions, and development for future developers
• Write user manuals and guides that help end-users navigate and make the most of the software features.
• Maintain and update documentation as systems evolve,
• Facilitate knowledge sharing within the team and supporting long-term system maintenance.

Learning & Development (5%)

• Participate in training sessions and workshops to enhance skills.
• Stay updated with industry trends and technologies relevant to the company’s needs.

Other duties assigned from time to time (5%)

KEY FOCUS AREAS

Supervisory Responsibility/ Work Relationships

• Work with all departments in regards to ICT software.

Processes

• Software Development & Management
• Systems Onboarding
• Change Management
• IT Security Management
• Decision Making & Communication
• Resolving complex bugs in the system
• Determining the best architecture for a new feature
• Ensuring code quality during reviews
• Deciding when to refactor existing code
• Revenue generation and cost management

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

• Expertise in full-stack development
• Strong knowledge in version control
• Dev Ops knowledge
• Good interpersonal skills
• Mentorship skills
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Analytical skills

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Or A Related Field
• Advanced training in JavaScript, node.js, react, Django, Python and database management.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in software development with a focus on full-stack development.

TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

• Development Tools: Visual Studio Code, Git, GitHub
• Frontend Technologies: React, JavaScript, HTML/CSS
• Backend Technologies: Node.js, Express.js, Go, Django, Python
• Database: MySQL, MongoDB
• Version Control: Git
• Operating Systems: Linux, Windows

APPLICATION GUIDELINES

• How to Apply: Submit your application via careers.optiven.co.ke
• Deadline: Applications close on 31st January 2025.
• Shortlisting Process: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Recruitment Fee: Optiven Group does not charge any fee for job applications, interviews, or placements.
• Communication: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to high application volumes.
• Disqualification: Any form of canvassing leads to automatic disqualification.
• Consent: By applying, candidates agree to allow background checks as necessary.
• Equal Opportunity: Optiven Group is an equal opportunity employer.•

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