Why RTI

RTI International is an independent scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world”s most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines to solve the world’s most challenging problems.

We believe in the promise of science and technical solutions, and we push ourselves every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. If you are looking for the opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you.

About the Hiring Group

RTI’s Center for International Development implements large-scale, multidisciplinary projects across health, energy, agriculture, water, and education by leveraging RTI’s deep cross-Institutional knowledge, proven solutions, and contextual expertise to increase global impact by improving lives, driving economic growth, and enhancing stability in fragile and developing geographies.

What You”ll Do

RTI is seeking IT Specialist candidates for a 5-year Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food for Progress (FFPr) program in Ethiopia. This Food for Progress program will use a market driven, U.S.-led value chain approach to transform Ethiopia’s sunflower sector and benefit U.S. businesses by addressing key productivity, market linkage, financing, and policy constraints identified by public and private actors.

The IT Specialist will be responsible for managing and supporting IT systems for staff located in the Addis Abba Office as well as for staff located in the regional offices. The IT Specialist will support the program team with developing and maintaining the M&E system, database, and data collection, and work closely with the program team and SunGold’s digital service partner on the digitization and digitalization of the sunflower value chain and other digitization and digitalization efforts. This position will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and will report to the Finance and Administration Manager.

Your primary responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Provide day-to-day technical support for project staff (laptop/workstation setup, troubleshooting, and server/network support).
• Support staff onboarding and ensure data security, confidentiality, and appropriate access management.
• Manage and maintain office IT infrastructure and equipment (Windows PCs/MacOS/Windows Servers, ISP/routers/switches/PBX), including hardware repairs and spare parts.
• Set up and support IT infrastructure and equipment for Addis Ababa and regional project offices, including new office start-ups as needed.
• Maintain software updates and security controls (patching, anti-virus, and backups) in accordance with RTI policies and procedures.
• Support the M&E Manager with IT aspects of data collection, including configuring, deploying, and supporting tablets/mobile devices, user accounts, and secure data transfer to ensure data integrity and uninterrupted reporting.
• Collaborate with the program team and SunGold’s partners on digitization/digitalization initiatives for the sunflower value chain and related efforts.
• Implement scalable IT solutions that streamline operations and improve collaboration (e.g., efficient video conferencing in project offices).
• Lead cost-effective procurement of IT resources by defining technical specifications, sourcing suppliers, and managing vendor relationships to ensure sustainable services and value for money.
• Provide IT support to the finance team for the Financial Management System (QuickBooks) as needed.
• Maintain IT asset inventory and software licensing records in accordance with RTI policies and procedures.

What You”ll Need

• Master’s degree and 3 years of experience working on IT activities, or a Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in cloud systems, such as MS Azure, AWS, etc.
• Solid knowledge and understanding of Windows 7, Windows Server 28 and MS Office 27/MS Office 21 (including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point)
• Demonstrated experience supporting Windows PCs, Mac OS, servers, and troubleshooting network issues.
• Experience in Hosted Virtual Desktop environment.
• Ability to work under pressure and within tight deadlines.
• Excellent English and Afaan Oromo written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to travel and work throughout Ethiopia in difficult terrain/conditions at times.

Work experience in Ethiopia required.