Job Description

mothers2mothers (m2m) is a proudly African NGO that unlocks the power of women to end health inequities. We employ, train, and support women living with HIV as frontline health workers across sub-Saharan Africa--called Mentor Mothers. These women deliver life-saving health services, educate communities, and create brighter futures for millions of families. Since 2001, m2m has reached over 17 million women and children with critical health services and support, proving that when women lead, communities thrive. We have also partnered with governments on more than 10 major initiatives to scale our impact. Now, at a time of unprecedented disruption to funding models for NGOs, we are more determined than ever to achieve our dream of helping to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic by 2030, and create a future where health for all creates opportunity for all. That vision requires bold philanthropic investment -- and that's where you come in. For more information, visit www.m2m.org



Job Title
Data Engineer
Organisation Levels
mothers2mothers -> m2m Head Office
Location
Cape Town - , 8000 ZA (Primary)

Type of position
Permanent
Education
Degree
Closing Date
3/10/2025

The Data Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining our centralised data repository, as well as all data streams in and out of it. They will provide strategic and technical guidance for all measurement, digital transformation and innovation.


They are responsible for leading the Department of Programs and Technical Services (DPTS) into the production and availability of quality basic and disaggregated data and the strengthening of information systems and digital transformation for health as a fundamental pillar. They will guide the data analysts, data scientists, and Strategic Information (SI) team through the ethical use of data to produce health intelligence through analysis, modelling, forecasting, and data science to guide decisions and actions in m2m's programmes.


This position is based at m2m's Head Office in Cape Town and is part of the Data Analytics Unit (a sub-unit within DPTS) and reports to the Data Analytics Lead.

Key Performance Areas:

Design and build data pipelines for multiple health information systems including CommCare, DHIS2, VMMP, and CHARM.

Implement robust ETL processes for data extraction, transformation, and loading. Ensure all client-level data is stored in GCP in clean, structured, SQL-query able formats. Automate pipeline processes to minimize manual intervention and improve reliability. Monitor pipeline performance and troubleshoot issues as they arise.

Cloud Infrastructure Management & Optimization

Review and optimize GCP environment architecture for cost-effectiveness and performance. Configure and maintain user roles, permissions, and security protocols within cloud platforms. Implement cloud data storage, processing, and backup strategies. Monitor resource utilization and implement cost optimization measures. Ensure compliance with data security and privacy requirements.

System Integration & Automation

Develop and maintain scripts for seamless data integration between multiple systems. Create and optimize data integration workflows between various health information platforms. Ensure data consistency, quality, and integrity across integrated systems. Troubleshoot integration issues and implement corrective measures. Build applications that facilitate server/client communication via network protocols.

Database Management & Reporting Support

Create and maintain databases for clean client-level and aggregated data. Automate data loading processes and trait generation. Support business intelligence tool implementation and reporting process optimization. Collaborate on dashboard development and reporting enhancements. Ensure database performance optimization and maintenance using SQL and related technologies.

Documentation & Knowledge Management

Develop comprehensive technical documentation for all data processes, scripts, and workflows. Create and maintain ETL pipeline architecture documentation and transformation logic. Document automation procedures, scheduling, and maintenance requirements. Maintain cloud environment configuration and troubleshooting guides. Provide technical training and knowledge transfer to team members. Job Requirements

Qualification and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Engineering, or related technical field Professional certifications in cloud platforms (preferred)

Knowledge & Technical Skills

Working knowledge of cloud platforms (GCP, AWS, or Azure) with experience creating services and understanding permission/role/access models Proficiency in Python and SQL Experience with SQL databases (PostgreSQL and similar) Familiarity with Git version control systems General data engineering knowledge and best practices Experience writing applications with server/client communication via network protocols Business intelligence tools experience (Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms preferred) Understanding of ETL tools and data pipeline development

Experience Requirements

Minimum 3 years in data engineering or similar technical roles Experience with large-scale data processing and transformation Health sector or NGO experience (advantageous) Experience with international development projects (advantageous)

Languages

English (fluent - written and verbal) Additional South African languages (advantageous)

Core Competencies

Analytical thinking and problem-solving Attention to detail and quality focus Strong communication and documentation skills Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects Cultural sensitivity and understanding of healthcare contexts Adaptability in dynamic environments mothers2mothers is an equal opportunity employer. We particularly encourage applications from people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA), people with disabilities, women and previously disadvantaged people. Competitive salary packages will be negotiable in accordance with m2m's remuneration policies.