Job Description
Job Purpose
Carnegie Mellon University Africa is seeking a highly efficient and experienced Lab Manager to oversee the operations of the Public Goods Network Laboratory as part of the Umoja Public Goods Network Project for its location in Rwanda, at Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa). This position will require combining managerial with technical skills to ensure the lab operates smoothly for the various users and is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
About the Umoja Public Goods Network Project
Carnegie Mellon University has received a four-year grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to implement the Umoja Digital Public Good Network Project (The Umoja Network). The project has a broad focus on cyber security, digital transformation of Africa and infrastructure. The Umoja Network aims to address issues around unequal access, and barriers to financial services including availability, access, affordability, regulations, and trust. The Umoja Network will coordinate researchers in Rwanda, the U.S., and other countries to establish a comprehensive and coherent multi-stakeholder approach working with communities around Rwanda as well as industry and government representatives.
The role
As CMU-Africa’s Umoja Lab Manager, your main responsibility will be to oversee all aspects of the lab function, including equipment, lab engineers, supplies, software, and documentation. Your specific responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to, the following:
Responsibilities
- Oversee the overall use of the laboratory to ensure users comply with systems of good practice and maintain high levels of security and safety protocols.
- Manage lab engineers and software developers and oversee their development, including training, performance evaluations, and work scheduling.
- Coordinate lab use, ensuring adequate resources such as equipment, materials, and other supplies.
- Partner with the Finance team and external vendors to oversee equipment procurement and maintenance.
- Develop lab security documents and maintenance procedures, ensuring all information and data collected in the lab complies with CMU record management policies.
- Collaborate with the Project manager to organize and take the lead on running technical demo sessions for various stakeholders
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
Education and Experience
- A master’s degree in relevant field (for example: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, etc.)
- 3 – 5 years of experience in a management position.
- International accreditation and certification in the field would be an advantage. e.g., Networking and security Certifications
- Fluency in spoken and written English and French would be an advantage
Skills and Competencies
- Self-starter with the ability to think strategically, tactically and creatively withing a lean and dynamic organization
- Strong presentation and communication skills with a varied audience in addition to being able to build and sustain professional relationships and partnerships.
- Demonstrable ability to collaborate with different stakeholders and project partners
- Ability to coordinate activities for the successful implementation of the project
- Analytical thinker with the ability to synthesize data to make informed, strategic decisions
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to connect easily with people from various cultures and backgrounds
- Goal-oriented with ability to identify synergies and opportunities for improved team interactions.
- Flexible and adaptable style, an ability to work independently and as a team member in a highly collaborative environment
- Agile learner with the ability to adapt and thrive in an evolving and diverse business environment
ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL CONTACTED
