Masakhane African Languages Hub Is Hiring: Program Manager, Foundational AI (Remote) – Earn USD 5,200 Per Month
The Masakhane African Languages Hub is inviting applications for the position of Program Manager, Foundational AI. This is a remote full-time opportunity for professionals with experience in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing (NLP), research coordination, and program management.
The successful candidate will support the development and delivery of AI research programmes focused on advancing African language technologies while working with researchers, technical teams, and partners across Africa.
Job Summary
Position: Program Manager, Foundational AI
Organization: Masakhane African Languages Hub
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Remote (Africa) with continental and global travel as required
Salary: USD 62,400 per year (approximately USD 5,200 per month)
Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early applications are encouraged.
About Masakhane
Masakhane is a pan-African initiative focused on addressing the underrepresentation of African languages in Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing. The organisation brings together researchers, technologists, linguists, and communities across Africa to create inclusive AI solutions that represent Africa’s linguistic diversity.
Through collaborative research and open-source innovation, Masakhane works to expand access to AI research and strengthen Africa’s role in global AI development.
About the Masakhane African Languages Hub
The Masakhane African Languages Hub is an initiative dedicated to improving the representation of African languages in Artificial Intelligence.
The Hub develops community-centred open-source datasets, AI models, language technologies, and practical AI applications that can support important sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, and digital inclusion.
The initiative aims to empower millions of Africans through locally relevant AI tools while supporting the preservation and advancement of Africa’s linguistic heritage.
Position Overview
The Program Manager, Foundational AI will coordinate and support the delivery of AI research projects focused on foundational technologies such as:
- AI datasets
- Speech technologies
- AI model development
- Benchmarking initiatives
- Research infrastructure
The role requires a combination of strong programme management skills and technical understanding of AI, NLP, and digital innovation to effectively work with researchers, engineers, and technical partners.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Portfolio Leadership and Project Coordination
- Lead and coordinate foundational AI projects.
- Monitor project timelines, budgets, milestones, and deliverables.
- Ensure projects meet scientific and technical quality standards.
- Identify risks and provide solutions to improve project delivery.
Research Partner Support
- Work closely with researchers, engineers, and technical partners.
- Support project teams in overcoming implementation challenges.
- Build strong relationships within the African AI research ecosystem.
Quality Assurance and Knowledge Sharing
- Develop effective programme management systems.
- Support technical reviews and quality assurance processes.
- Encourage collaboration and learning among project partners.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain relationships with researchers, funders, consultants, and ecosystem partners.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and updates on project progress.
- Represent the Hub in relevant technical engagements.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Applicants should have experience in areas including:
- Programme or project management
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Data science
- Digital innovation
- Research coordination
- Multi-country project implementation
- Partnership and stakeholder management
A background in Computer Science, Data Science, Computational Linguistics, Information Systems, or related technical/scientific fields is preferred.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Ability to manage complex research programmes.
- Understanding of AI and NLP concepts.
- Ability to work with technical experts.
- Excellent communication and reporting skills.
- Ability to collaborate with multicultural and international teams.
Knowledge of one or more African languages is considered an advantage.
Why Join Masakhane?
This opportunity provides a chance to:
- Work remotely from Africa.
- Collaborate with leading AI researchers and technology experts.
- Contribute to impactful AI research projects.
- Support the growth of African language technologies.
- Participate in international AI innovation initiatives.
- Help shape inclusive AI solutions for African communities.
Reporting Structure
The Program Manager, Foundational AI will report to the Programs Lead at the Masakhane African Languages Hub.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- A current CV.
- A brief cover letter explaining their experience in programme management, research administration, or related fields and how they can contribute to Masakhane’s mission.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.
Official Application Link
Apply here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc9u5T9Lf5AIb0HNwz3r_MsVpKnoFJaEllQjM1MGgEwwJAV2w/viewform
Full Job Description
View the complete job description here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K3_z9p2A1fn3ohHkxzxfM5lM4_CKSMUo/view
Official Masakhane Open Positions Page: