Junior Software Developer (Data-Focused)
Job Description
Job Title: Junior Software Developer (Data-Focused)
Location: Freetown, Sierra Leone (Open to candidates across West Africa)
Job Type: Full-Time
About the Role
We seek a Junior Software Developer with a strong fundamental background in mathematics, engineering, or related technical fields. This role is ideal for a highly motivated self-learner who enjoys problem-solving and data analysis. You will work closely with a senior developer, learning the ropes through hands-on support, debugging tasks, and managing large datasets. We don’t expect you to have perfected every skill, but we want someone eager to grow, learn quickly, and tackle new challenges head-on.
About MiKashBoks
Founded in 2021, MiKashBoks is a fintech business that seeks to transform the financial experience of the last billion. Our award-winning app provides ‘banking as a service’ for the informal sector – both individuals and groups – so that people at the bottom of the financial pyramid can build a financial footprint and get access to financial services.
Key Responsibilities
- Data Analysis & Management
○ Work with large datasets, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
○ Interpret data to drive actionable insights and recommendations.
- Database Concepts & Support
○ Understand and apply fundamental database concepts (SQL, data modeling, etc.).
○ Assist in setting up, maintaining, and optimizing databases for performance.
3. Software Development & Debugging
○ Collaborate with the senior developer to build, test, and deploy software applications.
○ Troubleshoot bugs, errors, and performance bottlenecks.
○ Proactively propose and implement fixes and enhancements.
- Continuous Learning & Collaboration
○ Shadow and learn from senior technical staff.
○ Ask questions, research solutions, and continuously develop new skills.
○ Participate in team discussions, code reviews, and problem-solving sessions.
5. Technical Support
○ Provide technical assistance to team members or customers as needed.
○ Document processes and solutions to streamline future support tasks.
Qualifications & Skills
- Educational Background
○ Strong fundamentals in mathematics, engineering, or a related discipline (formal degree or comparable experience).
- Problem-Solving Mindset
○ Demonstrated ability to think critically and troubleshoot complex issues.
○ Enthusiasm for learning new tools and technologies to solve problems.
- Programming Languages
○ Basic to intermediate experience with JavaScript and/or Python preferred.
○ Knowledge of other languages or frameworks is a plus but not mandatory.
4. Database Knowledge
○ Understanding of SQL, relational databases, and basic data modeling.
○ Familiarity with data querying and manipulation.
- Self-Learning & Adaptability
○ Proven track record of teaching yourself new technologies or concepts (e.g., via online courses, personal projects, GitHub repos).
○ Ability to pick up unfamiliar tools and processes quickly.
- Communication & Teamwork
○ Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic environment.
○ Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly important for explaining technical issues.
- Preferred Extras
○ Experience contributing to GitHub (repositories showcasing personal or academic projects).
○ Experience with AWS or GCP
○ Involvement in hackathons, coding clubs, or other extracurricular tech activities.
Who Should Apply
- Recent graduates or junior developers looking to kick-start their career.
- Self-taught programmers who have demonstrable projects and a passion for continuous learning.
- Candidates with strong fundamentals in math and critical thinking who are eager to dive deeper into software engineering and data analysis.
- Applicants in Sierra Leone or across West Africa who can work collaboratively in a partially remote environment.
What We Offer
- Hands-On Mentorship: Direct guidance and training from an experienced developer.
- Growth Opportunities: Engage with real-world projects, expanding your skill set quickly.
- Collaborative Culture: An environment that values learning, experimentation, and innovation.
- Competitive Local Compensation: Aligned with industry standards in Sierra Leone/West Africa.
How to Apply
Cover Letter:
○ In your cover letter, share a specific example of a technical challenge you faced and how you solved it.
○ Highlight any personal projects or activities that demonstrate your enthusiasm for learning new skills.
- GitHub/Portfolio:
○ Include links to your GitHub profile, coding samples, or any relevant repositories.
○ Let us know what role you played in each project (e.g., designing the database, writing the frontend, etc.).
- Updated CV/Resume:
○ List your academic background, relevant coursework, internships, or personal coding experiences.
Please send your application to brucem@mikashboks with the subject line:
“Junior Software Developer – [Your Name]”
We look forward to your application and the chance to learn about your problem-solving experiences, passion for technology, and willingness to grow in this exciting role!
Note: We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including those just beginning their careers. If you believe you have the fundamental skills and the eagerness to learn, we want to hear from you.