Are you a software virtuoso with a flair for leading development teams? Do you enjoy orchestrating software solutions through collaboration? If you’re prepared to channel your systems’ development prowess into connecting with the AfrikaBurn community, seize this moment with us in a full-time role as a Software Development Coordinator!

AfrikaBurn is the strategic driver of Burning Man culture in the Southern African region and plays a significant role in the arts and culture sector of South Africa. Most known for its flagship event in the Tankwa Karoo, as a Public Benefit Organisation, AfrikaBurn is the human scaffold that helps a diverse creative community propel numerous arts and development projects.

AfrikaBurn’s motto is to “Invent the world anew” and we constantly strive towards this.

The Software Development Coordinator role is a unique and multifaceted opportunity that combines software development expertise with a strong commitment to coordinating community-driven software initiatives. This position holds the responsibility of overseeing software implementations, supporting community software development projects, and managing the administration of software suites. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in enhancing our digital environment while fostering a sense of community engagement and collaboration.

Requirements:

• Minimum of a diploma in the areas of Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience in software development, with a track record of successful project implementations.
• Familiarity with event management software, ticketing systems, and project registration platforms.
• Platform agnostic strong proficiency in programming languages and software development tools.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with team members and community contributors effectively.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, taking initiative to drive projects forward.
• Experience in coordinating volunteer-driven software development efforts is a plus.
• Familiarity with mapping and scanning technologies and their coordination is desirable.
• Knowledge of software suite administration and management is beneficial.

Key Performance Areas:

Software Development:

• Conduct thorough research to identify suitable software solutions for various organisational needs and events.
• Implement, and manage software systems that cater to organisational needs, contributing to operational efficiency.
• Drive the development and enhancement of event applications, ensuring they align with user requirements and organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to support and improve website/ticketing systems and provide ongoing software support during events.
• Facilitate year-round development of the project registration system (previously known as ‘Tribe’), refining project registration processes and ensuring seamless user experiences.
• Assist in the import and export of event registrations, projects, and shifts to ensure accurate and streamlined event coordination.

Community Software Development Coordination:

• Manage volunteer-driven software development initiatives on the ‘digital blank canvas’, fostering a collaborative environment for community members to contribute to software enhancements.
• Coordinate mapping and scanning efforts within the Quaggafontein Technological Development projects, ensuring efficient data collection and utilisation.
• Provide support as an Assistant Grant Coordinator, aiding in grant-related activities and ensuring smooth communication with grant applicants.

Software Suite Administration:

• Administer various software suites year-round, overseeing their functionality, accessibility, and user experience.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure software suites remain up to date and effectively aligned with evolving organisational needs.

Traits (we value these highly)

• Adaptability to Change: Given the evolving nature of technology and community dynamics, adaptability to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges can be a valuable trait.
• Problem-solving: The ability to think critically and creatively to address complex technical and community-related issues is essential.
• Strong Interpersonal Skills: Effective communication, active listening, and the ability to connect with diverse community members and team members.
• Inclusivity and Cultural Awareness: A commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all community members feel valued and welcome.
• Continuous Learning: A commitment to staying updated with the latest technological advancements and community engagement strategies.

Perks:

• Freedom to ‘invent the world anew’. There are no limits to what can be achieved with AfrikaBurn, you’re invited to challenge yourself and develop and grow your skills.
• Being an active part of building a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates diversity, self-expression, radical self-reliance and that has tangible value.
• Opportunity to participate in activities on Quaggafontein outside of the event period.
• A hybrid office environment that bridges the gap between working online at home and in our Cape Town offices.

The Software Development Coordinator role presents a unique opportunity to bridge technical expertise with community engagement. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping our software landscape, fostering a collaborative community spirit, and contributing to the seamless execution of events and organisational initiatives. If you are a dynamic and versatile individual passionate about both software development and community coordination, we invite you to apply. Send us your application, including a cover letter that showcases your personality and why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to tell us a story about your own AfrikaBurn experience.

Compensation:

• We offer a competitive salary that recognises your expertise and experience for this full time position in the non-profit sector
• Generous time off to recover from the dust-induced tiredness

Application Process:

To apply for the role of Software Development Coordinator, send your application to [email protected] with the subject line “Software Development Coordinator, [Your Name]”.

Please attach your resume; a cover letter articulating your capabilities and interest in the role; and any other relevant documents you’d like to share.

Application Deadline:

There’s no time like the present, so please submit your application by November 3, 2023. However, don’t delay, as we’ll be reviewing applications on a rolling basis.

As a transforming organisation, AfrikaBurn encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those historically underrepresented in event management roles.