Facility Manager-UniPod / Samsung Mobile Circularity Innovation Lab
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sierra Leone supports the UN system with a people-first, human rights-based approach, aligning with the 2030 Agenda and national development plans. UNDP focuses on reducing poverty, enhancing justice, and promoting resilience through sustainable development and inclusive governance. It leverages global partnerships and provides policy support to ensure national ownership for sustainable outcomes. The UNDP is actively transforming the innovation landscape with the timbuktoo University Innovation Pod (UniPod), empowering young people and innovators with practical learning and entrepreneurship support.
Job Purpose
The Facility Manager will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day operational leadership of the Samsung Mobile Circularity Innovation Lab, housed within the UniPod. This role is crucial for ensuring the Lab's success as a dedicated workspace for hands-on learning in mobile technology and electronics repair, reuse, and refurbishment. The Facility Manager will manage the physical workspace, equipment, and daily activities, acting as a vital link between the Lab's specialized circularity projects and the broader programmatic goals of the UniPod. The position aims to foster a new generation of leaders in circular innovation by supporting practical learning, experimentation, and prototyping of sustainable tech solutions.
Responsibilities
The Facility Manager is responsible for the safe, orderly, and effective operation of the Samsung Mobile Circularity Innovation Lab, supporting the UniPod Manager and UNDP project team. Key duties include: Lab and Facility Operations: Supporting daily opening/closing, maintaining activity schedules, coordinating access, ensuring organized workspaces, and escalating facility issues. Equipment and Asset Accountability: Maintaining an inventory of equipment, supporting sign-out/return procedures, conducting visual checks, reporting damages, and assisting with asset verification. Safety and Responsible Use: Implementing safety rules, ensuring availability of PPE and guidance, supporting safe handling of e-waste, and reporting incidents. Programme Delivery Support: Preparing the Lab for trainings and events, coordinating resources with facilitators, assisting innovation clubs, and supporting exhibitions and visits. Records and Reporting: Maintaining usage logs, equipment records, and providing monthly operational updates and supporting data for project reporting.
Work Experience
A minimum of one month of relevant experience is required. One year of relevant experience is desirable. Internships, volunteering, student leadership, academic laboratory work, makerspace experience, or practical attachments are considered relevant early-career experience.
Skills
Essential skills include strong organization, attention to detail, and a responsible approach to equipment and safety. The ability to work constructively with diverse teams, basic digital record-keeping, Microsoft Office proficiency, and good communication and problem-solving skills are necessary. A strong interest in technology, sustainability, the circular economy, and youth innovation is important, along with the ability to learn quickly and work effectively under supervision. Expertise in data science, information management, AI, digital/social media, or administration is also relevant.