Technologist - Internet Initiatives

The Technologist provides the Internet Initiatives Program Team (IIPT) and technology partners with technical support and guidance to expand the use and improve the quality of software products and platforms in development: s/he will focus efforts primarily on digital security platforms and programs, working closely with a technical and program team in the field of international development and global human rights. The Technologist will also develop and provide face to face, peer-based and distance training assistance as needed S/he may also become involved in managing related grants to local organizations in target countries.

Note: Hiring for this position is contingent upon receipt of expected funding.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Evaluate software at various stages of its product release cycle, especially from a digital security perspective, as a member of the IIPT technical team, which may also include consultants and partners
• Identify and evaluate software that can benefit IIPT subprojects and partners, including those that can be integrated into existing activities with additional technical support and/or funding
• Enhance the IIPT’s understanding of best practices related to the use, deployment, and improvement of software, either existing or in development, for user groups supported by IIPT
• Provide basic functionality testing of software supported by IIPT and partners
• Provide usability assessments on a variety of Internet platforms, including mobile devices
• Participate in ‘hackathons’ as directed with the goal of improving existing software or creating new software; interact with others in these events such as developers, graphic designers, user interface designers, documentation specialists and trainers
• Manage one or more associated subgrants/projects with significant technical elements
• Provide digital security trainings as needed to less technically experienced staff and partners
• Assist with the development of threat models and the performance of digital security assessments of organizations, projects, and software development efforts

QUALIFICATIONS

• Undergraduate degree in computer science and/or professional experience in software development, software testing, quality assurance (QA), system administration or digital security consulting
• Digital security Certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) helpful but not required
• Familiarity with the Linux operating system and at least one scripting language
• Basic familiarity with Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) development standards, including the ability to compile software from source, track open tickets, file bugs and communicate with developers
• Experience as a hands-on technical trainer, including in developing countries, helpful but not required
• Demonstrated understanding of and/or experience with developing world information environments, including technical, political and social factors
• Ability to explain complex technical subjects in lay language to less technically-experienced persons; excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to spot trends in the development of new technologies and identify opportunities for the integration of existing technologies to address new challenges
• Experience with technical project management
• Ability to multi-task without losing sight of priorities

Technologist - Internet Initiatives