Senior Developer

Company: Democracy International
Location: Chicago
Posted on: May 24, 2025

Job Description:

Democracy International (DI) is seeking to hire a Senior Developer for an anticipated 12-month UNDP-funded project in Libya. The project's primary objective is to enhance and maintain custom, open-source software used by the High National Election Commission (HNEC) for results tabulation, mobile data collection, and public-facing results publication during electoral events. The role will involve overseeing the software development lifecycle, ensuring on-site and remote support during election tally processes, and building the capacity of HNEC's local development and IT teams.

The Senior Developer will lead the technical design and development of the web-based solutions for HNEC. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team, they will guide the creation of robust, secure, Python-based solutions (predominantly using the Django framework) that address HNEC's evolving requirements for results tabulation, reporting, and public-facing interfaces. The selected candidate will also support capacity-building for HNEC developers, ensuring that the system can be maintained and adapted long after the project's conclusion.

This is a full-time position contingent upon award and funding.The position's responsibilities will include:

• Design, develop, test, and maintain web-based software solutions for HNEC's tabulation and mobile data collection systems, leveraging Python (Django), PostgreSQL/MongoDB, and modern DevOps practices.
• Ensure that all proposed solutions adhere to best practices in software security, code management, and open-source development.
• Oversee the implementation of the project's "Listed Enhancements" to improve user experience, data accuracy, reporting capabilities, and system scalability.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to review functionality, incorporate feedback, and manage iteration cycles using Agile approaches.
• Provide remote support as needed during non-operational periods, including regular standups and timely responses to bug fixes or additional feature requests.
• Serve as a key on-site support lead during tally operations (including up to two electoral events), troubleshooting issues in real-time and coordinating with the remote team to ensure a smooth tabulation process.Administrative
  • Maintain clear documentation, including user guides, administrator references, and training materials in both Arabic and English, ensuring updates reflect any new system changes.
  • Collaborate with the project manager to plan and track tasks, ensuring that resources (human, technical, financial) align with project needs and deliverables.
  • Contribute to cost estimates for ad-hoc enhancements and ensure approval prior to initiating new development tasks.
  • Enhanced Tally Center and Mobile Data Collection Software: Implementation of specified updates and ad-hoc change requests, with thorough user testing and documentation.
  • System Maintenance and Support: Ongoing monthly maintenance reports, bug fixes, security patches, and code repository management.
  • Training and Capacity Building: Delivery of at least one remote training (3 days) for HNEC staff on system administration and functionality. One in-person training workshop (5 days) in Tunis to review the system code and architecture with HNEC developers.
  • On-Site Election Tally Support: Deployment of up to two specialists during tabulation events, ensuring system stability, troubleshooting, and secure data handling.
  • Project Documentation: Regular project reports, final handover documentation (including code repositories, user manuals, and configuration guides).Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a closely related field.
    • Minimum of five (5) years of experience as a senior software developer working on projects related to web-based applications.
    • At least three (3) years of professional experience in planning, designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining software solutions.
    • Minimum of four (4) years' experience in Python-based web applications-specifically the Django framework-and in database management (PostgreSQL/MongoDB) and deployment of web applications.
    • At least one (1) year of designing software solutions in countries with transition economies and/or for international organizations preferred.
    • Familiarity with secure coding standards, network and application security, and data protection measures.
    • Experience working or living in Libya is a plus.
    • Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential; proficiency in Arabic is preferred.Reporting
      • This position reports to the Project Manager and designated UNDP Program Manager overseeing the electoral support project in Libya.Application Process
        Interested applicants MUST submit a cover letter and CV by May 23, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will be filled as soon as a qualified candidate is identified. DI will only contact candidates of interest.Democracy International maintains the highest ethical standards. We are committed to the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment as well as other ethical breaches. All our positions are therefore subject to stringent vetting and reference checks.
        
        About the OrganizationDI provides technical assistance, analytical services and project implementation for democracy, human rights, governance and conflict mitigation programs worldwide for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. State Department and other development partners. Since its founding in 2003, Democracy International has worked with civil society organizations, political parties, election-management bodies, government agencies, legislatures, justice-sector institutions, and others in 80+ countries.
        
        DI welcomes and supports a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all applicants seeking employment and for DI employees. DI makes employment decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, personal appearance, military status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, political affiliation, educational status, unemployment status, place of residence or business, source of income, or reproductive health decision making. Additionally, harassment or discrimination based on these characteristics will not be tolerated at DI. To perform the essential functions of this position, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities.
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Keywords: Democracy International, Chicago , Senior Developer, IT / Software / Systems , Chicago, Illinois