ASSISTANT:SOFTWARE DEVELOPER – (2079)

Are you an experienced software developer looking for a full-time, permanent role within a dynamic university environment? The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is seeking an Assistant Software Developer to join its Centre for Innovative Education & Communication Technologies (CIECT).

Please note: This exciting opportunity is open to internal UWC candidates only.

About UWC and CIECT

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is dedicated to leveraging technology to enhance its teaching, learning, and administrative functions. Our Centre for Innovative Education & Communication Technologies (CIECT) spearheads cutting-edge technology solutions and collaborative projects, aligning with UWC’s digital transformation goals and institutional operating plan.

CIECT plays a vital role in maintaining and developing a robust institutional Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate successful online teaching, learning, and assessment practices. This position specifically focuses on the essential maintenance and support of our LMS and other integrated eTools.

Your Role as an Assistant Software Developer

As an Assistant Software Developer, you will be crucial in ensuring the smooth operation and continuous improvement of UWC’s Learning Management Systems. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Providing daily support and ongoing maintenance for the iKamva LMS platform and all integrated third-party eTools.
• Assisting with the verification of access to database servers and managing load balancing for the institutional LMS and all Sakai instances (AspirePillar7, CEU, and Elections) to ensure optimal reliability and performance.
• Continuously monitoring LMS performance, reliability, and availability, including during off-hours and critical emergency periods.
• Analyzing and diagnosing back-end technical system issues within the LMS platforms (iKamva and AspirePillar7), identifying their root causes.
• Troubleshooting technical queries related to user access, participation, and assessment within iKamva and AspirePillar7, as reported by Instructional Designers.
• Monitoring the internal helpdesk system for reported system bugs and general queries across all Sakai instances.
• Collaborating with the Coordinator to prepare clear technical write-ups for logged issues and communicate findings effectively to the Instructional Design team via the internal Jira helpdesk system.
• Supporting the Senior Developer with LMS upgrade processes, managing related version controls, and overseeing change management procedures.
• Implementing, testing, and maintaining Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) integrations within iKamva to connect external learning tools seamlessly.
• Staying informed about the latest trends and advancements in LMS technologies and software development practices (including open-source, proprietary, online, mobile, and offline solutions).
• Participating actively in internal capacity building and review sessions, providing constructive feedback on peers’ work, and learning from senior developers.
• Assisting the Coordinator with ensuring compliance regarding security and POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) requirements, especially concerning various roles, permissions, data sharing, and content storage.
• Undertaking additional responsibilities during academic examination periods, institutional emergencies, and specific departmental projects to ensure business continuity.
• Supporting the main developers and Instructional Designers with pilot projects related to the development of software applications and systems for various disciplines and stakeholders (Faculties, other Directorates, and Units).

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience:

• A National Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF 6) OR a National Certificate or Higher Certificate (NQF 5).
• Four (4) years of relevant experience in a back-end, super-administrative role within a Learning Management System in a Higher Education setting.

Advantageous Skills & Experiences:

• Proven experience with a Learning Management System (LMS) is highly desirable, with specific Sakai experience being a strong advantage.
• Familiarity with a variety of programming languages and technologies, including but not limited to:
  • Programming languages: Java, HTML/CSS, PHP, and familiarity with JavaScript.
  • Databases: MySQL.
  • Integration Technologies: Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI).
  • Web Frameworks: Spring (Java), Django (Python), Laravel (PHP).
• Strong ability to troubleshoot technical issues and support software development processes.
• Excellent collaborative skills and the ability to work closely with diverse team members across CIECT.
• Strong analytical skills with a meticulous approach to learning and following required procedures.
• Ability to simplify and explain complex technical terms in an understandable way when reporting to front-end support teams, such as Instructional Design.
• A keen interest in staying updated with the latest technologies and a proactive willingness to learn new skills.

Key Competencies:

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and solve problems effectively.
• Proven experience in collaborating effectively across diverse teams.
• Adaptability and a willingness to explore and implement new software applications and best practices.
• A solid understanding of security and privacy concerns, especially concerning various roles, permissions, data sharing, and content storage within a digital environment.
• Commitment to staying informed about emerging technologies and third-party tools integrated within LMS environments.

How to Apply

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please follow these steps:

1. Click on the “Apply for this Job” link on the UWC Careers portal or apply directly via UWC Careers at: https://uwc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll.
2. Ensure your application includes:
   • A cover letter clearly motivating your suitability for this role.
   • A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for three professional referees.
   • Proof of your highest qualification.
3. Attach these required documents to your online profile when applying.

For any recruitment-related queries, please contact the Human Resources Department at +27 21 959 4063/9763/9708/3551/3756 or email: [email protected].

Application Closing Date: 15 October 2025

Disclaimer: By applying for this position, you consent to the University sharing your application, including your curriculum vitae, with University stakeholders to process the application. In line with the University’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with our Employment Equity Targets. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates, and may conduct competency assessments.