IT Operations Lead

About the Institute of Foundation Models

We are a dedicated research lab for building, understanding, using, and risk-managing foundation models. Our mandate is to advance research, nurture the next generation of AI builders, and drive transformative contributions to a knowledge-driven economy.

As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to work on the core of cutting‑edge foundation model training, alongside world‑class researchers, data scientists, and engineers, tackling the most fundamental and impactful challenges in AI development. You will participate in the development of groundbreaking AI solutions that have the potential to reshape entire industries. Strategic and innovative problem‑solving skills will be instrumental in establishing MBZUAI as a global hub for high‑performance computing in deep learning, driving impactful discoveries that inspire the next generation of AI pioneers.

IFM Silicon Valley is establishing its first presence in Sunnyvale, California, and we are seeking a highly motivated and versatile IT Specialist to build and maintain our IT infrastructure from the ground up at our Sunnyvale office location. This is a unique opportunity to shape the technological foundation of our new lab and play a crucial role in enabling our scientific endeavors.

The ideal candidate will be a self‑starter with a broad range of IT skills, capable of establishing secure networks, configuring systems, providing technical support, and effectively bridging communication and IT needs between our Sunnyvale team and our colleagues in Abu Dhabi, navigating different time zones with ease.

• Infrastructure Setup: Design, implement, and maintain the local area network (LAN) infrastructure, including wired and wireless networks.
• Network Security: Establish and maintain robust network security protocols, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and VPN configurations to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
• Endpoint Management and Laptop Configuration: Procure, configure, deploy, and maintain laptops, desktops, printers, and other end‑user devices & manage inventory; install and configure operating systems (Windows and/or macOS), software applications, and security tools on laptops according to lab standards and user needs; implement and manage softw are deployment and patching processes for laptops; ensure laptops are compliant with security policies, including encryption, antivirus, and access controls;
  
  troubleshoot hardware and software issues on laptops, providing timely and effective support to users; and, manage user accounts and access rights on laptops and across network resources.
• Server and Storage: Install, configure, and maintain local servers and storage solutions as needed for lab operations and data management.
• Cloud Services Integration: Integrate and manage cloud‑based services relevant to lab operations (e.g., data storage, collaboration tools).
• VPN Management: Establish and maintain secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections for seamless and secure communication and data access between the Sunnyvale and Abu Dhabi teams.
• Technical Support and Query Resolution: Serve as the primary point of contact for all IT‑related queries from internal stakeholders in the Sunnyvale lab, providing timely and effective solutions or escalating issues as needed.
• IT Orientation for New Hires: Develop and deliver comprehensive IT orientation sessions for new employees joining the Sunnyvale lab. This includes providing guidance on IT policies, account setup, access to resources, and basic troubleshooting.
• Cross‑Time Zone
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Act as the primary IT point of contact between the Sunnyvale, France and Abu Dhabi teams, effectively communicating and addressing IT‑related needs across different time zones. This will require flexibility in working hours as needed.
• Documentation: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation of IT infrastructure, configurations (including laptop configurations), procedures, and orientation materials.
• Vendor Management: Liaise with IT vendors for procurement, support, and maintenance of hardware and…