The Engine Room is seeking a Project Manager Associate to provide project management support as its projects and partnerships grow.
The successful candidate will work closely with the Associate for Project Management and project leads. The ideal candidate will be committed to The Engine Room’s mission and passionate about the work it does.
The role requires someone who can form healthy and trusted relationships with project leads while balancing task and logistics management with a focus on project outcomes and targets.
Job Summary
- Employer: The Engine Room
- Job Type: Part-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Project Management
- Salary: $25,000-$30,000 USD
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
Key Responsibilities
- No specific responsibilities listed
Requirements
- Communicates and collaborates well in a globally distributed team.
- Is comfortable working independently and collaboratively.
- Is skilled at planning, coordination and problem-solving.
- Is committed to the organisation’s mission and creating healthy, supportive ways of working.
- Knows how to work well in a globally distributed team.
- Can balance working independently and collaboratively with confidence.
- Is adept at managing competing priorities.
- Can be the “glue” that holds things together and the “grease” that facilitates movement.
Salary
$25,000-$30,000 USD
How to Apply
About the Company
The Engine Room is an Australian jazz trio made up of Roger Frampton, John Pochee and Steve Elphick who were the rhythm section of Ten Part Invention. Their album Full Steam Ahead was nominated for the 1996 ARIA Award for Best Jazz Album.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Project Manager Associate role in Zimbabwe?
Usually a bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field is expected, and many employers value a Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 Foundation certification. Relevant experience in coordinating projects, even through internships or volunteer work, strengthens the application. Familiarity with local regulatory environments and donor reporting standards can be an added advantage.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Project Manager Associate in Zimbabwe?
The role involves assisting senior project managers in planning schedules, tracking milestones, and preparing status reports for stakeholders. You will often coordinate with cross-functional teams, manage documentation, and ensure that project activities comply with both organizational policies and Zimbabwean legal requirements. Routine tasks also include updating project management software, organizing meetings, and following up on action items.
How does the local work culture in Zimbabwe influence expectations for a Project Manager Associate?
Zimbabwean workplaces tend to value relationship-building and clear communication, so being proactive in updating team members and respecting hierarchical structures is important. Employers often expect flexibility, as projects may face infrastructure or supply-chain challenges that require adaptive problem-solving. Demonstrating patience, cultural sensitivity, and a willingness to work extended hours when needed is generally appreciated.
What realistic career progression or growth paths can a Project Manager Associate expect in Zimbabwe?
Starting as an associate, you can move to a Project Manager role after gaining 2-3 years of successful project coordination experience and possibly obtaining further certifications. With continued performance, opportunities arise to become a Senior Project Manager, Programme Manager, or to specialize in sectors such as infrastructure, health, or agriculture. Many organizations also support lateral moves into related functions like monitoring and evaluation or business development.
What typical benefits are offered to Project Manager Associates in Zimbabwean companies?
Benefits commonly include paid annual leave (often around 20-25 days), medical aid contributions, and employer-matched pension or provident fund contributions. Some employers also provide transport allowances, mobile phone subsidies, and access to professional development budgets for training or certification exams. The exact package varies by organization, but these elements are frequently mentioned in job advertisements.
How should a job seeker apply for a Project Manager Associate position in Zimbabwe, and what do employers typically look for?
Applications are usually submitted online via the company’s career portal or through recruitment platforms, accompanied by a tailored CV and a cover letter that highlights relevant project coordination experience. Employers look for evidence of strong organizational skills, familiarity with project management tools (such as MS Project or Primavera), and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Demonstrating knowledge of local project contexts, donor requirements, or sector-specific challenges can give candidates a competitive edge.
