Mercy Corps, a leading global humanitarian organization, continues to extend its commitment to empowering vulnerable communities through innovative and sustainable development initiatives. With a presence in over 40 countries, Mercy Corps is driven by the belief that a better world is possible—and that change begins with strong, inclusive, and capable teams. The organization now seeks a highly motivated and dynamic individual to join its Kenya team as an ICT Intern, stationed at the Lodwar Field Office in Turkana County.
This internship offers an excellent opportunity for a young professional or recent graduate to gain valuable experience in Information and Communication Technology within a respected international NGO. The selected candidate will work closely with the operations team to support the IT infrastructure, ensuring systems function efficiently and meet the dynamic needs of Mercy Corps’ programs and operations in Kenya’s northwestern frontier.
About Mercy Corps
At its core, Mercy Corps works in the world’s toughest places, turning crisis into opportunity by addressing root causes of poverty, conflict, and vulnerability. Whether it’s responding to emergencies, building resilience, or supporting economic growth, Mercy Corps places high value on collaboration, accountability, innovation, and learning. In Kenya, Mercy Corps works across sectors including governance, economic development, climate resilience, water and sanitation, youth empowerment, and humanitarian response.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental values in Mercy Corps’ workplace culture. The organization fosters an environment where team members feel respected, empowered, and encouraged to contribute to their full potential.
About the Role: ICT Intern – Turkana
Job Title: ICT Intern
Location: Lodwar, Turkana County, Kenya
Job Category: Information Technology
Requisition Number: ICTIN006106
Type: Full-time Internship
Working Arrangement: On-site
Posted: July 28, 2025
General Position Summary
The ICT Intern will provide critical support to the daily operations of Mercy Corps’ IT systems and services at the Turkana field office. Reporting to the ICT Systems Administrator and working closely with the operations and program teams, the intern will assist in maintaining a robust IT infrastructure that supports both administrative and programmatic functions. This includes troubleshooting technical issues, setting up IT equipment, updating software, and assisting staff with their IT needs.
This position is ideal for a recent graduate or ongoing student in IT or related fields who is eager to gain hands-on experience, build technical competence, and contribute to meaningful humanitarian work in one of Kenya’s most underserved regions.
Key Responsibilities
1. IT Operations Support
- Assist in the implementation of Mercy Corps’ ICT Systems Policy and provide guidance to staff on proper IT usage and protocols.
- Monitor use of computer systems to ensure compliance with internal policies and promote responsible usage of IT assets.
- Troubleshoot and resolve first-level hardware and software issues, escalating complex problems to the ICT Systems Administrator as needed.
- Provide prompt, courteous, and professional support to staff experiencing technical difficulties.
2. Hardware and Network Management
- Support the setup and configuration of laptops, desktops, printers, and other IT equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
- Assist in troubleshooting Local Area Network (LAN) and internet connectivity issues, both wireless and wired.
- Perform regular maintenance and checks on IT devices to ensure continued performance and identify early signs of potential failures.
3. Software and Applications
- Assist in the installation, configuration, and updating of licensed software and applications on staff devices.
- Help manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls where necessary under supervision.
- Provide support for the ProSource Vendor Data Administration (VDA) system, including setup and basic troubleshooting.
4. Asset Management and Documentation
- Maintain a current and accurate inventory of IT assets within the Turkana office, including hardware and software.
- Keep logs of maintenance, repairs, and IT support tickets, ensuring documentation is detailed and up to date.
- Support with IT procurement processes by providing technical specifications and assisting in vendor evaluations.
5. Staff Capacity Building
- Conduct basic training sessions for team members on using standard software (e.g., Microsoft Office, email clients, cloud storage).
- Educate staff on cybersecurity best practices, such as data protection, password security, and phishing awareness.
6. Organizational Integration and Ethics
- Uphold the values and ethical standards of Mercy Corps by adhering to safeguarding principles and policies.
- Promote a culture of safety, integrity, and mutual respect within the team and among external stakeholders.
- Contribute to an inclusive work environment by respecting cultural diversity and supporting equitable practices.
7. Additional Duties
- Contribute to special projects or tasks assigned by the ICT Systems Administrator or Operations Lead.
- Dedicate 5% of working time to personal learning and development in line with Mercy Corps’ commitment to continuous improvement.
- Maintain professionalism and comply with Mercy Corps’ Code of Conduct and local laws at all times.
Accountability and Supervision
- Reports To: ICT Systems Administrator
- Works With: Operations Officers, ICT Assistants, and Program Staff to identify and respond to IT needs.
Expected Outcomes and Learning Objectives
Through this internship, the selected candidate will:
- Gain firsthand experience in managing IT systems in a complex humanitarian context.
- Develop skills in troubleshooting and maintaining networks, hardware, and software systems.
- Enhance understanding of IT compliance, documentation, and asset management in an international NGO.
- Learn how to balance technical roles with customer service in a multicultural environment.
- Contribute to the delivery of critical support services that enable life-changing programming in Turkana County.
Ideal Candidate Profile
To be successful in this role, applicants should demonstrate the following:
- Recent graduate (within one year) or enrolled in a diploma or degree program in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field from a recognized institution in Kenya.
- Sound understanding of computer hardware and software installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of networking concepts, especially LAN/WLAN troubleshooting and basic network configuration.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow established procedures without close supervision.
- Capacity to document issues clearly and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical staff.
- Willingness to work in a challenging environment and ability to adapt to evolving operational needs.
Living and Working Conditions
The internship position is based in Lodwar, Turkana County. Mercy Corps will provide suitable housing and access to medical services for the selected intern. While Turkana presents unique logistical and environmental challenges, Mercy Corps maintains high standards of living and safety for all staff and interns deployed to the region.
Organizational Culture and Values
Mercy Corps places a high premium on teamwork, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence. Interns are encouraged to immerse themselves in the organization’s culture of openness, feedback, and professional development. Mercy Corps fosters an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration, ensuring that every team member, regardless of level or background, has an opportunity to grow and contribute meaningfully.
Commitment to Safeguarding
Mercy Corps adheres to global safeguarding standards to ensure that everyone who interacts with its programs—especially vulnerable populations—is treated with dignity and protected from abuse. All interns are required to familiarize themselves with and uphold the organization’s safeguarding policies. Furthermore, team members are required to complete mandatory Code of Conduct and safeguarding e-learning modules upon onboarding.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mercy Corps is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated, and the organization actively seeks to recruit individuals of diverse gender, ethnicity, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and background. Mercy Corps values the richness that diversity brings and believes it enhances the organization’s global impact.
Reporting Misconduct
If, as an applicant or team member, you experience or witness sexual misconduct or unethical behavior during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to report it via the Mercy Corps Integrity Hotline: [email protected]. All reports are treated with the utmost confidentiality and respect.
Conclusion
The ICT Intern role at Mercy Corps Turkana is a unique opportunity for young Kenyan professionals to immerse themselves in practical, meaningful IT work while contributing to an organization that is committed to transforming lives. If you are passionate about technology, eager to learn, and ready to make a difference, this is your chance to launch your professional journey with purpose and impact.
Interested candidates who meet the outlined requirements and are committed to Mercy Corps’ mission and values are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
