Project Manager – High Performance Computing (HPC)

Job description

The Institute of Foundation Models (IFM) at MBZUAI is building and operating large-scale GPU clusters supporting cutting-edge AI model training and research. We are seeking a highly organized and execution-oriented Project Manager to support the HPC function. This role will work closely with the HPC Lead to drive infrastructure projects end-to-end — coordinating vendors, internal university departments (IT, procurement, compliance, finance), and research stakeholders — while ensuring documentation, governance, and delivery tracking are properly maintained. Key Responsibilities ### HPC Project Execution & Coordination - Support planning and delivery of HPC infrastructure projects (GPU clusters, storage, networking, upgrades). - Coordinate with external vendors (hardware providers, cloud partners, data center operators). - Track project milestones, risks, dependencies, and timelines. - Maintain project plans, logs, and status reports. - Organize and document project meetings and action items. ### Cluster Portfolio Tracking & IFM Project Support - Maintain structured visibility of all major workloads and projects running on IFM clusters. - Track cluster allocation, major initiatives, and priority programs supported by HPC. - Build and maintain strong working relationships with IFM research teams and project owners. - Act as a coordination bridge to ensure key IFM projects receive proper infrastructure support. - Proactively identify risks impacting critical research timelines and escalate where needed. ### Cross-Department Coordination - Act as liaison between HPC team and University IT, Procurement, Finance, Legal, Compliance, and HR. - Ensure requirements are clearly documented and aligned across stakeholders. - Proactively follow up to remove blockers and maintain project momentum. ### Documentation & Governance - Maintain structured documentation of cluster specifications, contracts, SLAs, and change logs. - Support governance processes (SteerCo tracking, review cadences). - Assist with audit preparation and documentation consolidation. ### Compliance & Management Support - Assist with export control governance tracking and vendor compliance. - Support access control and user approval coordination with IT. - Track risk mitigation and regulatory documentation requirements ### Reporting & Executive Communication - Prepare concise leadership updates and executive summaries. - Develop slide decks and structured status reports. - Maintain dashboards for project status, budget tracking, and vendor performance. ### Educational Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business, or a related field (required). - Master’s degree (MBA, Engineering, Technology Management, or related discipline) preferred. ### Required Experience - 5+ years of experience in Project Management. - Experience in technical or infrastructure projects. - Strong organizational and documentation skills. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills. - Ability to work cross-functionally in a complex organization.