Data Technician

Role Summary

The Data Technician supports comprehensive data management activities for health and programmatic data in PIH/APZU-supported health facilities and community initiatives. This position ensures the collection, entry, verification, validation, analysis, and reporting of data from various digital and paper-based sources such as electronic medical records (EMR), DHIS2, and CommCare. Working closely with Ministry of Health personnel, clinical teams, and Monitoring and Evaluation staff, the incumbent fosters data accuracy, completeness, timeliness, and standardization to facilitate evidence-based health interventions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in gathering routine and program data using electronic and paper tools.
• Execute prompt and accurate data entry into specified databases and digital systems.
• Transcribe, translate, code, and summarize health and operational datasets as needed.
• Maintain comprehensive and precise data before submission.
• Preserve confidentiality and security of sensitive patient and organizational information according to policies.
• Organize and archive source documents appropriately.
• Conduct frequent data cleaning, validation, and audits across various reporting platforms.
• Compare and reconcile data discrepancies between paper registers, EMR, DHIS2, and other tools, identifying data quality challenges.
• Collaborate to resolve duplicate or inconsistent records and suggest corrective measures.
• Support data quality improvement efforts and standard operating procedures implementation.
• Help compile, analyze, and report routine and ad-hoc information to monitor program performance.
• Generate dashboards and reports facilitating decision-making processes.
• Coordinate data alignment for HIV, TB, NCD, RMNCAH, and related programs across multiple systems.
• Monitor data timelines to ensure adherence to reporting standards.
• Assist in data extraction and management from approved platforms.
• Contribute to the upkeep and operational efficiency of digital health systems within PIH/APZU.
• Track patient data to aid in follow-up, retention, and continuity of care initiatives.
• Support integrated screening and community/facility programs data workflows.
• Partner with clinical and community health workers to improve data management and reporting.
• Travel to health facilities to perform on-site data verification and quality improvement activities.
• Provide mentorship and technical assistance to HMIS clerks and facility staff on data procedures.
• Participate in training and review sessions enhancing data tool knowledge and reporting accuracy.
• Engage with Ministry of Health and partners to strengthen data quality at facility and district levels.
• Support operational surveys, assessments, and digital health initiatives as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computing, Mathematics, Statistics, Information Systems, Informatics, or a related discipline.
• At least two years’ professional experience managing data systems or health information databases.
• Proficient in SQL or similar database query languages (MySQL, PostgreSQL).
• Knowledge of Ministry of Health digital reporting systems is advantageous.
• Strong computer literacy, especially in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with health informatics, digital, and mobile health technologies beneficial.
• Experience with platforms such as OpenMRS, DHIS2, CommCare, SurveyCTO, or ODK preferred.
• Proven capability to maintain high-quality, accurate, complete, and timely data.
• Prior work experience in health programs, monitoring, evaluation, research, or related healthcare settings is a plus.

Competencies and Attributes

• Excellent data management and analytical skills, capable of dealing with diverse information systems.
• Strong understanding of health digital systems and platforms.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to data integrity and confidentiality.
• Ability to independently identify and resolve data inconsistencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with emphasis on Excel.
• Effective communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Team-oriented, collaborative with multidisciplinary groups.
• Accountable, proactive, adaptable, and resilient in challenging environments.
• Dedicated to enhancing healthcare delivery through accurate data management.
• Capable of training and mentoring colleagues in data practices.

Additional Information

• Regular travel to facilities and communities within supported districts is required.
• Flexibility to handle fieldwork, data collection, and meet reporting deadlines is essential.
• Commitment to safeguarding confidentiality and ethical data handling is mandatory.
• Opportunity to contribute significantly to health system strengthening through data quality assurance.
• Employment contingent upon successful background checks ensuring safeguarding compliance.
• The recruitment process does not involve any fees; candidates should report any such requests.