Junior Software Developer

Job Title: Junior Software Developer
Reports To: Systems and Cybersecurity Team Leader
Department: ICT Division: Finance, Legal And ICT
Location: Absa Towers

JOB PURPOSE STATEMENT

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

• Ensuring code quality and optimizing performance.
• Enhancing user satisfaction by adhering to best practices and collaborating with the team.
• Improving system reliability and supporting the ICT department in achieving its objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• System Development – Build and maintain software solutions that meet standards, ensuring reliability and performance.
• System Maintenance  – Apply best practices, conduct code reviews, and write tests to keep code efficient and maintainable.
• 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

• Efficient and high-quality code.
• Efficiency system in scalability
• Stakeholder satisfaction.
• Timely completion of projects.

MAIN ACTIVITIES

Systems Development (40%)

• Engage in the complete software development lifecycle, from gathering requirements and designing system architecture to coding, testing, and deploying software solutions.
• Follow industry-standard coding practices.
• Build systems that are reliable and performant, ensuring they can handle the expected workload efficiently.
• Write unit tests, integration tests, and conduct thorough testing to ensure the code functions as expected and is free of bugs before deployment.
• Work closely with UI/UX designers to develop intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that meet user needs and expectations.
• Design and implement scalable solutions that can grow with the business, ensuring systems remain efficient as user load increases.
• Facilitate iterative testing and feedback before full-scale development.

System Maintenance and projects support (20%)

• Regularly update existing systems to ensure they remain functional, secure, and aligned with evolving organizational needs Maintain consistent code style and writing.
• Fix bugs and patches, perform upgrades, and troubleshoot issues as they arise Optimize database performance and queries to enhance application efficiency.
• Analyze and improve database performance by optimizing queries, indexing strategies and schema designs.
• Monitor database performance and make adjustments as needed to enhance overall application efficiency and responsiveness.
• Monitor system performance metrics to identify bottlenecks or areas that require optimization.
• Proactively address potential issues that could lead to system downtime, ensuring high availability and reliability.

User Support (10%)

• Implement features that enhance usability, making the software more user friendly.
• Train employees on systems use.
• Engage with other teams such as design, product management, quality assurance, and operations to align on project goals and ensure cohesive execution.
• Maintain open and clear communication with stakeholders to keep everyone informed about project progress, potential issues, and timelines.
• Work together with team members to brainstorm and resolve challenges that arise during development, testing, or deployment phases.
• Collect and analyze user feedback to continuously refine and improve the user experience, ensuring the software evolves with user needs.

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.
• 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.
• Engage the Senior Developer for coaching and mentorship.

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

Relationships

• ICT Team
• Digital Content Officer

Processes

• Software Development & Management
• Systems Onboarding
• Change Management
• IT Security Management

Decision Making & Communication

• Ensuring code quality and consistency
• Map Automation
• Mitigating user requirements and expectations
•  Improving system performance

Revenue

• Revenue generation and cost management responsibility

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

• Proficiency in Programming Languages and Frameworks
• Proper Understanding of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Analytical skills
• Problem-Solving skills
• Proper communication and collaboration skills

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or any related field.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in software development or related field
• Training in Javascript, node.js, react, and related languages and database management.
• Diploma in a Program Development is an added advantage

TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

• Programming Languages: JavaScript
• Frameworks: NodeJS, NextJS
• Libraries: React
• Version Control: Git, GitHub
• Database: MySQL
• Other tools: VS Code, Postman

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.•
• Apply