Health Information Systems Developer

The World at Abt

Solving the world’s most pressing issues and improving the quality of life for people worldwide is what we do every day at Abt Associates. Creating a more equitable world is no small task, but we are driven by big challenges.

We are a team of 3,000+ people in over 50 countries working in unison and focused on the bigger picture. Only by sharing our commitment, energy, and innovation do we affect change and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We welcome diverse ideas, backgrounds, and viewpoints – joining Abt means access to exceptional thinkers at the top of their game.

To thrive at Abt is to embrace flexibility and collaboration. Our open culture allows you to balance your work and personal life as needed to optimize personal well-being. Creating a more equitable world starts from within – we look after people around the world, and we’ll do the same for you.

Ready to embrace rewarding and meaningful work? Now’s your chance.
The Opportunity 

As a Health Information Systems Developer on the USAID Public Sector Systems Strengthening Plus (USAID PS3+) project, you will collaborate with the existing USAID PS3+ team of developers to design, support, and maintain key information systems crucial to the project’s success. You will utilize your expertise in health information systems, particularly OpenSRP/UCS, to ensure its interoperability with other priority systems. This role requires you to apply your knowledge of Health Interoperability standards such as HL7 V2, V3, and FHIR. You will be involved in mobile and web app development using Java/Kotlin and work with various programming languages, including Java, Python, PHP, and Node.js. Your role will include developing and optimizing Distributed Computing Architectures, SOAP and REST web services, and OpenHIM mediators.

Additionally, you will leverage your understanding of the CIEL dictionary and coding standards like SNOMED and LOINC to enhance our systems. Your responsibilities will encompass optimizing and development of databases, contributing to Community Health Services, and utilizing ETL tools. You will play a significant role in customizing OpenSRP and developing data visualization products using Apache Superset. This position will be located in Dar es Salaam and will report to Senior Project Director for Information Systems.
Core Responsibilities 

• Contribute to technical strategy development and work planning.
• Liaise with Government of Tanzania (GOT) experts in the improvement, maintenance, support and development of the Unified Community System (UCS)
• Gather user requirements, design, develop and program strengthened systems as it may be required.
• Contribute to development of linkages and integration between all program interventions and teams.
• Contribute to developing a common vision with the GOT and other Implementing Partners on UCS implementation
• Support design and development of key additional UCS modules as instructed by client.
• Support interoperability of UCS with other facility level systems for efficiency.
• Coordinate the transition of development/programming activities to the Ministry of Health, the National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Programme, and the Office of the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG).
• Liaise and provide technical advice to UCS project partners and the MoH, Ministry of Community Development, and PORALG.
• Where needed, facilitate capacity-building activities for government officials, healthcare providers, and relevant stakeholders, enhancing their understanding and utilization of UCS system modules.
• Stay updated with emerging technologies and trends in the field of health information systems and enterprise architecture to further improve UCS interventions.
• Provide recommendations for integrating innovative solutions into the USAID PS3+ project, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Analyze and evaluate the performance, data quality, and data security measures of health information systems.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, technical documentation, and presentations highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.
• Contribute to establishing a positive project culture.
• Perform other tasks as necessary.

What We Value

• Bachelor’s degree in software engineering/computer science/ information systems or related field. Master’s degree in a related field is an advantage.
• At least 10 years of experience working with health information systems and at least 7 years of progressive experience with development of libraries in OpenSRP/Unified Community System (UCS).
• Demonstrated experience in developing NiFi pipelines for data processing and integrating the UCS with other information systems using standard HIS interoperability standards.
• Familiarity with national and international standards and regulations governing health information systems and enterprise architecture.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing data integration projects and interoperability frameworks.
• Familiarity with DHIS2 and its interoperability with open sources systems such as UCS.
• Knowledge experience with Health Interoperability standards: HL7 V2, V3 and FHIR.
• Knowledge and experience of Java, Kotlin, Python, PHP, and Node.js.
• Knowledge of Distributed Computing Architecture.
• Knowledge of SOAP and REST web services.
• Knowledge and experience of OpenHIM mediator development.
• Knowledge of CIEL dictionary.
• Knowledge of coding standards such as SNOMED and LOINC.
• Experience optimizing databases.
• Experience in Community Health Services.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in using ETL tools.
• Demonstrated experience in customizing OpenSRP.
• Experience in developing data visualization products using Apache Superset.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills, capable of addressing intricate technical challenges.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, technical teams, and development partners.
• Self-driven with the capacity to work autonomously, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

What We Offer

We foster an environment where you can Thrive Your Way. Our innovative total rewards programs are designed to help balance your work and personal life. The approach toward your wellbeing centers around comprehensive benefits and professional development.

Abt Associates is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workforce. Abt Associates provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits. Local candidates strongly encouraged to apply.

Disclaimer: Abt Associates will never ask candidates for money in exchange for an offer of employment.

Abt is committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment.  All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate background checks, which can include criminal records and terrorism finance checks. Abt Associates also participates in the Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.