Computer Programmer and Database Manager

Job Description: Computer Programmer and Database Manager – Ethiopia

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Reports to: Country Director, Willows International Ethiopia
Travel: Up to 60% travel to program sites

Job Type: Full Time

Organization Background

Willows International (WI) is a global leader in reproductive health and family planning service delivery, focusing on personalized, client-centered approaches to empower women and families in making informed decisions about their reproductive health. At the core of WI’s approach is the Willows Box System (WBS), a proven, systematic method designed to support frontline community health workers in delivering tailored counseling, identifying clients’ reproductive health needs, managing follow-ups, and ensuring continued use of preferred contraceptive methods. WBS enhances health worker efficiency and accountability, and significantly improves outcomes such as contraceptive uptake, satisfaction, and continuation.

Willows International Ethiopia is currently collaborating with the Ministry of Health to implement a standardized and customized WBS through both paper-based and digital platforms to strengthen the performance of Health Extension Workers (HEWs) and contribute to national reproductive health goals. As part of this effort, WI is working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other key stakeholders to ensure sustainable integration of WBS into national health systems.

To support effective implementation of the WBS, Willows International Ethiopia seeks a highly qualified Computer Programmer and Database Manager. This individual will play a central role in designing, developing, and managing the organization’s digital health systems, including electronic databases and ICT infrastructure. The position requires a unique combination of technical expertise, systems thinking, and health program familiarity, particularly in reproductive health. The position holder will ensure that WI Ethiopia’s digital platforms function seamlessly, data is accurate and timely, and that digital tools are fully aligned with program goals and national standards. This role will also require close collaboration with the Ministry of Health’s digitalization team to support the integration of WBS into national systems and build the capacity of staff, MoH trainers, and HEWs to use digital WBS tools effectively. This is a position ideal for a professional who is passionate about using technology to strengthen community health information systems and advance reproductive health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of Willows International Ethiopia’s electronic databases, ICT systems, and digital health platforms supporting both paper-based and electronic Willows Box System (WBS) client management tools.
• Manage hardware and software systems essential to the operation of Willows International’s databases, including system architecture, troubleshooting, upgrades, and developing technical specifications for ICT procurements.
• Oversee ICT documentation, including records, logs, and data archives to ensure systems are auditable and information is preserved and accessible.
• Collaborate closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Manager in Ethiopia office and the U.S. Office to ensure timely and accurate data entry, analysis, and reporting, supporting evidence-based program improvements.
• Support the MEL team in analyzing program data for routine monitoring, performance reviews, decision-making, and donor reporting.
• Work in collaboration with the Senior Digital Health Specialist at WI Headquarters to align local systems with organizational digital standards and promote cross-country learning and standardized reporting.
• Act as the primary technical liaison with the Ministry of Health’s Digitalization Team to ensure interoperability, sustainability, and smooth integration of WBS Management Information Systems into national platforms supporting Health Extension Workers.
• Lead capacity building for Willows Ethiopia staff, Health Extension Supervisors (HES), and Health Extension Workers (HEWs) on the use of Digital WBS tools, ensuring correct use and regular data quality assurance (DQA) checks.
• Provide support to the program team in the preparation of timely and accurate technical and programmatic reports.
• Identify external technical assistance needs and recommend professionals for external technical assistance for approval by the WI headquarters, if needed.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the WI President/CEO, Country Director or the WI Senior Digital Health Specialist.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Database Management or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in digital health programming, database management, or ICT-related roles in health or development programs.
• Proven expertise with digital health tools including DHIS2, CommCare, Power BI, and other data visualization or digital client management platforms.
• Experience working with the Ministry of Health or international NGOs in providing ICT technical assistance and developing or managing digital health systems.
• Strong analytical and systems-thinking skills; able to connect technical ICT solutions with public health program needs, especially in reproductive health.
• Experience developing user-friendly dashboards and interfaces for program staff to support data use for decision-making.
• Proficiency in MS Access, SQL, and familiarity with programming languages for database development and management.
• Skilled in using data analysis tools such as STATA, SPSS, and Epi Info.
• Experience in multi-platform or client-server application development.
• Knowledge of GIS tools and mobile data collection technologies (e.g., cell phones, tablets, PDAs) is an added advantage.
• Up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies, software standards, and national digital health policies, especially at the Health Extension Program level.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Willingness and ability to travel to field locations (approximately 60% of the time).