The new NSSA conducts its business in an honest, accountable, and transparent manner and we seek to recruit like-minded individuals in the following areas:
Reporting to the Systems Development Manager, the successful candidate will lead the design and oversees scalability, security of data platforms that support analytics, AI, and business decision-making. The job also entails leading the data engineering function, sets best practices, and ensures reliable, high-quality enterprise data aligned with the organization’s digital strategy.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Data Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-06-05
Key Responsibilities
- Leads the team on designing and implementing of enterprise data architecture and engineering frameworks to support scalable, reliable, and efficient data integration, processing, and analytics across the organization.
- Oversees deployment, monitoring, troubleshooting, and CI/CD enablement for data platforms.
- Collaborates with stakeholders to define a data engineering roadmap aligned with digital transformation objectives, prioritizing initiatives, technology adoption, and process improvements.
- Drives data governance, innovation initiatives, and the adoption of emerging technologies to enhance data capabilities and organizational efficiency.
- Leads team by providing technical leadership, mentoring team members, and establishing engineering standards and best practices.
- Oversees the implementation of data quality, validation, monitoring, and security controls to ensure reliable, accurate, and secure data.
- Designs and manages scalable batch and real-time data pipelines to efficiently ingest, transform, and deliver data from multiple sources, ensuring reliability, performance, and timely availability for analytics and business applications.
Requirements
- Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Engineering or equivalent.
- Professional certificate in Data Engineering or Data Analysis is desirable.
- A minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience in data engineering or related roles.
- Proven experience designing enterprise-scale data platforms.
How to Apply
To reach not later than close of business on Friday 5th June 2026.
About the Company
In Zimbabwe the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), constituted and established in terms of the NSSA Act of 1989, Chapter 17: 04 DOWNLOAD: NATIONAL SOCIAL SECURITY AUTHORITY ACT 17 04 (PDF 128.4 KB), is the statutory corporate body tasked by the Government to provide social security. The provision of social security can be defined as instituting public policy measures intended to protect an individual in life situations or conditions in which his/her livelihood and well being may be threatened, such as those engendered by sickness, workplace injuries, unemployment, invalidity, old age, retirement and death. It is based on the principle of social solidarity and pooling of resources and risks, involving drawing of savings from periods of employment, earnings and good health to provide for periods of unemployment, old age, invalidity and death. At the moment NSSA is administering two schemes: Pension and Other Benefits Scheme and Accident Prevention and Workers’ Compensation Scheme, although, in an endeavor to provide a more comprehensive social security package for the Zimbabwean society, groundwork for the introduction of more schemes is underway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic qualifications and specific certifications are typically expected for a Lead Data Engineer role in Zimbabwe?
A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related engineering field is usually a prerequisite. Relevant certifications in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP, along with advanced data engineering technologies, are highly valued by Zimbabwean employers. Practical experience with ETL tools, data warehousing, and big data technologies is often considered more critical than formal academic achievement alone.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Lead Data Engineer, especially in a contract capacity within a Zimbabwean organization?
Daily tasks typically involve designing, building, and maintaining scalable data pipelines and infrastructure to support analytics and reporting needs. You would also be responsible for leading a team, ensuring data quality, optimizing data solutions, and collaborating with stakeholders to understand data requirements. Given it's a contract role, focus might also be on specific project deliverables and knowledge transfer within a defined timeframe.
How does the Zimbabwean work culture influence expectations and the working environment for a Lead Data Engineer?
Zimbabwean work culture often emphasizes respect for hierarchy, collaborative problem-solving, and strong interpersonal relationships within teams. There's an expectation for professionalism and commitment, with a focus on delivering practical, impactful solutions that address local business needs effectively. Adaptability and resourcefulness are highly valued traits, particularly when navigating potential resource constraints or evolving project requirements.
What are realistic career progression and growth paths for a Lead Data Engineer in Zimbabwe, particularly after a contract role?
After a contract role, a Lead Data Engineer can progress into more senior permanent positions, possibly as an Enterprise Architect, Data Solutions Architect, or Head of Data within larger organizations. Many also leverage their experience to pursue independent consulting opportunities or specialize further in niche areas like machine learning engineering or advanced analytics. Continuous learning and networking are crucial for unlocking these opportunities in the local market.
What typical benefits, such as leave or medical aid, can a contract Lead Data Engineer expect from a Zimbabwean employer?
Contract roles in Zimbabwe typically offer limited benefits compared to permanent positions, often excluding extensive pension contributions and comprehensive medical aid. However, some employers might provide basic medical coverage or a specified number of paid leave days as part of the contract agreement. It's crucial to clarify all specific benefits and terms directly with the employer during the negotiation phase.
What is the best way to apply for Lead Data Engineer roles in Zimbabwe, and what qualities do employers typically seek in candidates?
Applications are usually submitted online through company websites or professional platforms like LinkedIn, often requiring a detailed CV and cover letter tailored to the specific role. Employers in Zimbabwe look for proven technical expertise, strong problem-solving abilities, leadership potential, and relevant local industry experience. Highlighting your impact on previous projects and demonstrating cultural fit are also significant advantages.