Senior Backend Developer (Civic Technology Solutions)

Introduction

OpenUp is first and foremost a civic technology organisation. We believe that technology, used  effectively, can increase transparency in government, promote an active citizenry and contribute to  achieving a more just society by empowering ordinary citizens to make informed decisions about their  lives. We are a mission-driven non-profit technology organisation working across multiple projects in the Global South, with a strong commitment to open-source solutions and data-driven social impact.

It may be useful to explore the breadth of our work as captured in our Annual Report (https://openup.org.za/annual-report/openup-annual-report-2023-2024). 

Role and Expectation

We are looking for a mission-driven Backend Developer. You will design and implement ethical, open-source technological solutions that increase transparency and empower citizens, working across diverse projects with a focus on adaptability, responsible technology practices (which include data privacy), and meaningful social impact. This role requires a flexible technologist who can navigate civic technology challenges, supporting multiple projects with innovative backend architectures while maintaining a deep commitment to responsible and inclusive technological development.

Key Responsibilities

Backend Development and Architecture

• Develop and maintain backend systems chiefly using Django/Python
• Design and optimise PostgreSQL database structures
• Implement robust data processing pipelines
• Support legacy project maintenance
• Create and manage API backends for various projects
• Data and cybersecurity implementation

Infrastructure Management

• Manage deployments using Dokku and Docker
• Configure and maintain virtual servers (AWS EC2, Hetzner)
• Implement Ansible-based configuration management
• Ensure system reliability and performance

Data-Driven Development

• Support advanced data collection and analysis techniques
• Implement JSONB field type strategies
• Support data team with backend data infrastructure
• Create efficient data loading and processing workflows

Collaborative Development

• Help manage and task contract developers
• Contribute to, and maintain, open-source projects
• Support collaborative development approaches
• Implement best practices in code sharing and reuse

Preferred Tech Stack Proficiency

Backend Development

• PostgreSQL 
• Django/Python ecosystem
• Docker containerisation
• Ansible for configuration management
• Dokku for app deployment
• Cloud infrastructure (AWS EC2, Hetzner Cloud)

Infrastructure and DevOps

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Hosting Platforms:

• Netlify
• Vercel
• CloudFlare

Database Hosting:

• AWS RDS
• Supabase

Monitoring Tools:

• Sentry.io
• UpTimeRobot

Secrets Management:

• Bitwarden

While we've outlined our preferred tech stack, we value transferable skills and learning ability over exact experience. We're interested in candidates who can demonstrate proficiency in comparable technologies and show aptitude for quickly adapting to our specific environment.

Soft Skills Proficiency

• Adaptability across multiple project contexts
• Strong problem-solving capabilities
• Excellent communication skills
• Commitment to social impact technology
• Ability to work in resource-constrained environments

Work Environment

We have a small, agile and cross-functional team. On an ordinary day, you will work with a Full Stack Developer; Graphic Designer; Data Science Lead and Project Managers. We also work with a broad range of consistent and trusted contractors in both data and development. 

We would expect you to contribute to technical strategy and innovation.

An important area of our work is both demystifying technology in civil society and government environments, and promoting responsible and ethical technology practices through collaborative development. This informs how we approach our collaborating community (which is broad). 

Compensation and Benefits

- Competitive non-profit sector salary

- Flexible working arrangements

- Impact-driven work environment and innovation for social good

- Salary range ZAR 48000-55000 depending on experience and/or proficiency

Ideally, we would prefer a Cape Town-based talent, but will consider alternative proposals.

Equal Opportunity

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.