IT Internship at Plan International

Role Purpose

Plan International is an independent child rights and humanitarian organisation committed to children living a life free of poverty, violence and injustice.  We actively unite children, communities and other people who share our mission to make positive lasting changes in children’s and young people’s lives. We support children to gain the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to claim their rights to a fulfilling life, today and in the future. We place a specific focus on girls and women, who are most often left behind.  We have been building powerful partnerships for children for more than 75 years, and are now active in more than 70 countries.

Dimensions of the Role

The IT Intern will be reporting to the IT Coordinator.  S/he will be a learning assistant in the management of IT infrastructure and Information Security. Under the guidance of the IT Coordinator, the IT Intern will be provided a leaning opportunity while assisting in the effective provisioning, installation/configuration, operation, and maintenance of IT systems, hardware and software and related IT infrastructure.

The post holder does not directly manage a budget or approve any spending. This position does not have direct reports.

 Areas of Learning/ Duties

Typical Responsibilities – Key End Results of Position:

• Learn while assisting in providing IT related support, and based on a review of IT status, needs, and management in the office, draft information management plans, including automation, digitization and telecommunication. Success Indicator  is  documented contribution to monthly IT reporting including but not limited to:  IT operations and services plans; monthly Network security implementation and performance report for monitoring IT security incidents and monthly IT Systems Management report for monitoring utilization of Plan approved software and computers
• Learn while assisting to co-ordinate the support for technical operation of organizational IT applications and systems including but not limited to Plan’s online systems (SAP, Global HRIS, Local HRIS and  ChildData), Plan’s online services (Planet, Email, and Business Online) MS Office, Desktop OS, Server OS and mobile/remote users. Success indicator is documented contribution to properly installed and maintained IT systems and applications and IT Infrastructure and effective and efficient IT services.
• Learn while assisting to coordinate the introduction and technical operation of organizational IT systems and applications. Success Indicators are is documented contribution to smooth IT systems rollout and staff members proficient in using any new systems or system upgrades.
• Learn while assisting in the installation of new versions of the systems and troubleshoot ad-hoc user problems, Success Indicator is documented contribution to IT SLAs targets being met.
• Learn while assisting in the management of the office multi-user IT network, as well as data and telecommunication facilities. Success Indicator is documented contribution to IT systems uptime of 99% and timely IT disaster recovery to ensure business continuity.
• Learn while assisting in the acquisition planning of specific IT hardware and software, and its introduction into the office, including its maintenance.  Success Indicator is documented contribution to the adherence to corporate standards, design and architectures and the proper implementation and use of computers and network devices.
• Learn while assisting in the organisation of IT training and support for IT users. Success Indicator is documented contribution state of staff members being proficient in using IT systems, applications and services.
• Learn while assisting the implementation IT policies, maintenance of network and Plan’s systems, and assist the implementation of new systems in offices. Success Indicator is documented contribution to IT procedures and guidelines proper implementation.
• Learn while assisting with the maintenance of the IT infrastructure systems including WAN applications per Global and Country standards. Success Indicator is documented contribution to adherence to corporate standards, design and architectures and efficient and effective implementation and use of computers and network devices.

Dealing with Problems:

• Managing a mix of IT technologies; productivity software; Plan IT systems application and services; Microsoft Windows Server and desktop operating systems, network management and troubleshooting; and escalating Internet connectivity issues to relevant providers.
• Creativity is required to find solutions to IT software/hardware conflicts; balancing IT needs of staff with available resources.

• Ability to plan, organize and document complex system activities and to configure systems to be consistent with institutional policies/procedures; communicate technical/complex information both verbally and in writing; establish and maintain cooperation, understanding, trust and credibility; perform multiple tasks concurrently and respond to emergency situations effectively.

Communications and Working Relationships:

The primary linkages for this post:

• Country IT Manager
• IT Coordinator
• Managers
• Country IT Network
• Staff

 Education Qualifications Required

• Degree in Computer Studies or equivalent
• Knowledge of  or training in telecommunication technologies , Microsoft technologies( Microsoft Office, Microsoft Windows, SQL Server, Exchange server) and Cisco technologies) is as added advantage.

Knowledge and Skills that the Intern will demonstrate at the End of the Period

• IT service delivery and IT governance
• IT service support; technical skills in IT infrastructure and/or applications
• Strong analytical and logical ability
• Problem-solving skills
• Creativity and Innovation
• Reporting skills
• Customer care and remote support application usage

Criteria for eligibility

Those eligible to apply to participate in the internship program shall be Kenyan citizens who meet the following criteria:

• Graduates from Kenyan universities
• Must have completed studies in a relevant field of study within the last 24 months.
• Graduates who are below 25 years old and willing to commit their time on the program for the entire year
• Demonstrated good character, creativity, honesty, positive attitude and ability to learn
• Graduates who are currently not in employment