About YLabs
YLabs is a global design and research organization designing technologies that amplify youth power, agency, and opportunity.
Founded in 2014 at the Harvard Innovation Lab, YLabs partners with young people to co-create inclusive digital products and services. Its multidisciplinary team combines expertise in youth-driven design with adolescent health, climate, livelihoods, digital product design, behavioral science, and epidemiology.
YLabs is based in Rwanda and the USA and has worked across 18 countries on projects focused on health and wellness, economic opportunity, and climate resilience.
About the Operations Specialist Role
The role is suited to an experienced Operations Specialist, Senior Operations Associate or People Operations professional who is ready to take the next step.
Job Summary
- Employer: YLabs
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Operations
- Salary: $17,000-$26,000 USD per year
- Closing Date: 2026-12-31
Key Responsibilities
- Manage onboarding and offboarding.
- Handle employee requests, benefits administration and personnel records.
- Improve the day-to-day employee experience.
- Identify ways to make people operations simpler, more responsive and more effective.
- Manage recruitment for individual-contributor and coordinator-level positions.
- Support sourcing and screening.
- Coordinate interviews and candidate communication.
- Manage offer logistics and help maintain a positive candidate experience.
- Identify operational gaps and develop practical solutions.
- Create and improve onboarding processes and staff workflows.
- Support HRIS practices and systems.
- Manage equipment, supplies, documentation and compliance records.
- Manage Google Workspace and other software access.
- Work with vendors and support contract management.
- Build relationships across YLabs’ distributed team.
- Support staff wellness and team connection.
- Organise team events and the annual retreat.
- Use feedback and pulse survey data to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Work closely with the Deputy Director, People Operations.
- Translate People Operations priorities into practical execution.
- Surface issues and opportunities early.
- Take ownership of initiatives and see them through to completion.
Requirements
- 3-6 years of experience in operations, people operations, HR, administration or a related field.
- Strong organisational and execution skills.
- Experience managing multiple priorities independently.
- A builder’s mindset and an interest in creating and improving systems.
- Strong people-centred judgment and discretion.
- Experience supporting or managing recruitment processes.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Autonomy and good judgment.
- Curiosity, initiative and willingness to improve existing ways of working.
Salary
$17,000-$26,000 USD per year
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become an Operations Specialist at YLabs in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a diploma or degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field. Professional certifications like CIPS or project management credentials are advantageous. Relevant experience in logistics, supply chain, or administrative coordination often compensates for formal education gaps.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Operations Specialist in Zimbabwe?
You will coordinate workflows, manage vendor relationships, track inventory, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Daily tasks include resolving operational bottlenecks, preparing reports for management, and liaising with departments to maintain service delivery standards.
How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ for Operations roles in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwean employers value reliability, adaptability to resource constraints, and strong interpersonal skills due to collaborative work environments. Punctuality and respect for hierarchy are important, and you may need to navigate informal networks to get things done efficiently.
What career progression opportunities exist for Operations Specialists in Zimbabwe?
With experience, you can advance to Operations Manager, Regional Coordinator, or Head of Operations roles. Specializing in areas like supply chain optimization or quality assurance opens doors to consulting or senior leadership positions within NGOs and private sector firms.
What benefits should I expect as an Operations Specialist working for an organization like YLabs in Zimbabwe?
Benefits vary by employer but typically include medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave as mandated by Zimbabwean labour law. International NGOs often offer additional perks like professional development allowances and hardship adjustments, while local companies may provide transport or housing allowances.
How do I apply for an Operations Specialist role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through official job portals, LinkedIn, or directly via organization websites with a tailored CV highlighting measurable achievements. Employers prioritize candidates with proven problem-solving abilities, local market knowledge, and experience managing limited resources under pressure.
