E-Governance Specialist At National Democratic Institute

About Us

The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness, and accountability in government. Help support democracy worldwide by joining our team!

About the Role

Under the USAID-funded Democratic Processes Project (DPP), the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the International Republican Institute (IRI) are supporting different aspects of Nepal’s digital transformation and governance systems through the newly established e-Governance Commission. NDI’s support includes updating, standardizing, and streamlining the legal and regulatory frameworks for e-governance, strengthening digital literacy among stakeholders as it relates to e-governance implementation, and building the capacity of the Commission and other stakeholders to implement e-governance policies.

In this context, NDI is seeking an experienced e-governance specialist to serve as the technical lead for the e-governance programs implemented by NDI in Nepal, and coordinate with IRI on their e-governance initiatives to ensure program complementarity. S/he will work with NDI’s country representative. This is a five-month assignment based in Kathmandu, Nepal.

This assignment is subject to donor approval. The anticipated start date is October 1, 2024.

Scope of Work

• In consultation with the country representative, support the E-Governance Commission and other stakeholders in implementing the E-Governance Blueprint Policy. This includes providing strategic and technical direction, developing a plan to assess gaps and priorities, developing a practical roadmap for digital transformation based on the Blueprint, and advising on implementing interoperability/whole-of-government frameworks.
• Provide technical input and support the design and implementation of citizen engagement models and;
• Review of existing and proposed legislation and policy on e-governance, digital procurement and data exchange.
• In consultation with the country representative, provide support to the e-Governance Commission to identify and pilot digitization projects at national and subnational levels. Tailor approaches to each initiative, leveraging regional and global partnerships, digital tools, and resources to improve citizens’ access to services and engagement with the government.
• Work with NDI’s senior monitoring, evaluation, and learning officer to develop a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, including key performance indicators and milestones, to assess the progress and impact of e-governance initiatives, including Digital ID. Conduct surveys and focus group discussions to gather feedback from citizens, particularly marginalized groups, and use this data to inform and refine program strategies.
• Provide technical leadership to an NDI team of three staff, led by the program manager to implement the e-governance activities
• Closely coordinate with NDI’s consortium partner IRI on their e-governance programs to ensure efforts are complementary
• Serve as the point of contact for the e-Governance Commission and USAID
• Consult on the recruitment, onboarding, and transition of a local staff member to assume technical responsibility of the e-governance program going forward.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience
• University degree in computer science, political science, international affairs, international development or other relevant field is required. Advanced degree and technology certifications, such as the Project Management Professionals (PMP) certification or a cloud computing certification from a leading cloud service provider, would be an asset.
• Proficiency in designing and developing digital services, including user interface (UI), user experience (UX), and system architecture design to ensure that government services are accessible, user-friendly, stable, and sustainable.
• Strong skills in data management, including database design, data warehousing, and data analytics. This includes the ability to manage and analyze large datasets to inform decision-making and improve service delivery.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices to protect sensitive government data and ensure the security of digital services. This includes understanding encryption, network security, and risk management.
• Experience in managing complex projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring. Experience implementing USAID or other donor programs would be an asset. Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum, is beneficial.
• Understanding of the technologies and platforms commonly used in e-governance, such as Enterprise Architecture (EA), cloud computing, blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI). This includes the ability to integrate these technologies into government systems.
• Experience in leveraging technology to enhance democratic processes**.** Understanding of how e-governance frameworks affect democratic institutions, with a focus on improving transparency, citizen engagement, and inclusive policy-making.
• Awareness of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing e-governance, including data privacy laws and digital governance policies. This ensures compliance with national and international standards.
• Ability to provide technical support and troubleshoot issues related to digital services and infrastructure. This includes problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to adjust programmatic activities based on changing political circumstances and in response to needs articulated by local partners and program stakeholders
• Ability and willingness to travel on a frequent basis within Nepal outside of Kathmandu, including in remote regions and districts, as needed
• Professional proficiency in English is required

Contract Period

October 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025

What We Offer:

We offer an environment committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as a core part of our culture. We strive to foster empowerment and belonging as these values are central to our mission and to our impact. We believe that diversity in thought helps us solve the complex problems we face around the globe.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes health, dental, vision, a generous PTO policy, flexible schedules, and a 10% employer contribution to the retirement pension.

This position offers an anticipated salary range of approximately $119,200 – $155,000.

Additional Information:

While there may be flexibility for remote/hybrid work environments and to comply with tax and legal obligations, successful candidates must be residents of MD, DC, or VA, or relocate prior to the start of employment at NDI.

Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. NDI does not provide sponsorship.

NDI is an equal opportunity employer (EEO). As such, NDI makes employment decisions and provides equal employment opportunity without regard to an applicant’s or employee’s race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state and local laws. As an equal opportunity employer, NDI encourages individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans or veterans with service-connected disabilities, to apply.

If you need reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please notify NDI’s Human Resources department at Human_Resources_team@ndi.org. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.