Information Technology (IT) Specialist – Program and Technical Support, Food for Progress SunGold Project

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RTI International is an independent scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition by addressing the world’s most critical problems with technical, science-based, and objective solutions. RTI’s Center for International Development implements large-scale, multidisciplinary projects across health, energy, agriculture, water, and education to drive economic growth and enhance stability in developing geographies.

RTI is seeking candidates for an IT Specialist position for an upcoming 5-year USDA Food for Progress (FFPr) program in Ethiopia. The program utilizes a market-driven value chain approach to transform Ethiopia’s sunflower sector.

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Job Purpose

The IT Specialist will manage and support IT systems for staff located in the Addis Ababa main office and various regional field offices. This role bridges standard system administration with programmatic data support, collaborating with the M&E team and digital service partners on the digitization and digitalization of the sunflower value chain. The position reports directly to the Finance and Administration Manager.

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Key Responsibilities

Technical Support & Infrastructure Management

• Provide day-to-day technical support for project staff, including workstation setup, troubleshooting, and server/network support.
• Set up, manage, and maintain office IT infrastructure (Windows PCs, MacOS, Windows Servers, ISP routers, switches, and PBX structures) for new and existing offices.
• Handle hardware repairs and maintain a regular stock of technical spare parts.
• Implement scalable IT solutions to streamline operations, such as efficient video conferencing setups across regional offices.
• Provide specialized IT troubleshooting and technical support to the finance team for the Financial Management System (QuickBooks).

Data Security & M&E Collaboration

• Support staff onboarding by managing secure user profiles, data confidentiality, and access permissions.
• Maintain strict security controls, software patches, anti-virus deployments, and data backups in compliance with RTI policies.
• Collaborate with the M&E Manager to configure, deploy, and support tablets/mobile devices, secure user accounts, and data transfers for interrupted field reporting.
• Partner with the program team and SunGold's digital service providers to execute digitalization initiatives along the sunflower value chain.

Procurement & Asset Control

• Lead the cost-effective procurement of IT resources by defining clear technical specifications, sourcing suppliers, and managing vendor relationships.
• Maintain a meticulous IT asset inventory and update software licensing records in line with corporate standards.

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What You’ll Need (Qualifications)

Education & Experience

• Education: Master’s degree with 3 years of experience, OR a Bachelor’s degree with 5 years of experience in IT activities (or equivalent combination).
• Technical Environment: Demonstrated experience supporting Windows PCs, Mac OS, server infrastructure, Hosted Virtual Desktop environments, and cloud systems (e.g., MS Azure, AWS).
• Software Competency: Solid knowledge of Windows systems, Windows Server frameworks, and MS Office applications.
• Context: Prior professional work experience within Ethiopia is required.

Core Competencies & Adaptability

• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills with the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Languages: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Afaan Oromo.
• Travel: Willingness and physical ability to travel throughout regional areas of Ethiopia, occasionally in difficult terrain or under basic field conditions.

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How to Apply & Equal Opportunity

RTI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.

Before applying, please review your workplace rights via the EEOC Know Your Rights Poster.

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