Assistant Project Manager – Equipment & Instrumentation at Nariana Enterprises Ltd.

Role Summary

We are seeking a technically strong, commercially aware and results-driven Assistant Project Manager to join our Laboratory, Scientific & Analytical Equipment Division.

This is not a construction or site project management role.

The successful candidate will support the Project Manager in handling the complete lifecycle of projects involving the tendering, sourcing, supply, installation, commissioning and handover of laboratory, analytical, scientific and specialised technical equipment.

The role requires someone who can confidently review detailed technical specifications, identify compliant equipment, engage manufacturers, prepare technical tender submissions, coordinate with clients and end users, and manage awarded projects through to successful completion.

The ideal candidate should already have experience working with technical tenders, laboratory equipment, scientific instrumentation, analytical instruments, engineering equipment or similar specialised equipment supply projects.

Tendering & Technical Specification Review

• Review tender documents, Bills of Quantities and detailed technical specifications.
• Interpret technical specifications and identify suitable equipment and instruments that fully comply with client requirements.
• Prepare detailed technical compliance schedules and tender responses.
• Conduct detailed product and manufacturer research for specialised equipment.
• Obtain quotations, datasheets, brochures, certifications, authorisation letters and other technical documentation from manufacturers.
• Liaise directly with international and local manufacturers to clarify technical requirements.
• Assist in preparing complete technical and commercial tender submissions.
• Ensure all tender documentation is accurate, compliant and submitted within the required timelines.

Laboratory, Scientific & Technical Equipment Sourcing

• Source suitable laboratory, scientific and technical equipment from manufacturers and suppliers globally.
• Evaluate equipment based on technical compliance, performance, quality, cost, warranty, lead time and after-sales support.
• Prepare technical and commercial comparisons between different manufacturers and models.
• Develop a strong understanding of unfamiliar instruments and technologies within a short period of time.
• Conduct meetings with manufacturers to discuss specifications, configurations, applications and pricing.
• Negotiate with manufacturers and suppliers where required.
• Maintain and develop relationships with international equipment manufacturers and technical partners.

Project Management & Execution

• Support the Project Manager in managing awarded equipment supply projects from contract award through to final handover.
• Develop and monitor project schedules, procurement timelines and deliverables.
• Coordinate manufacturer orders, technical approvals, shipping, delivery, installation and commissioning.
• Liaise with Procurement, Finance, Logistics and other internal departments.
• Maintain clear project trackers and ensure outstanding activities are followed up and completed.
• Monitor project risks, delays and technical issues and escalate them promptly.
• Ensure all contractual and technical deliverables are completed within the required timelines.

Installation, Commissioning & Training

• Coordinate and participate in installation and commissioning of supplied equipment.
• Work with manufacturers and technical specialists during installation and commissioning.
• Coordinate factory engineers or international technical specialists where required.
• Assist in troubleshooting technical issues during project implementation.
• Support equipment demonstrations and end-user training.
• Ensure installation, commissioning, training and handover documentation is properly completed.

Business Development

• Identify new opportunities within laboratories, universities, research institutions, government agencies and industrial clients.
• Monitor upcoming tenders and procurement opportunities relevant to the division.
• Identify new manufacturers, technologies and products that can be introduced into the Kenyan and regional markets.
• Support preparation of proposals, quotations and presentations for prospective clients.
• Contribute towards departmental revenue and business development targets.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Applied Science or another relevant technical discipline.
• Minimum 4 years of relevant professional experience.
• Previous experience involving laboratory equipment, scientific instruments, analytical instruments, technical equipment supply or specialised engineering equipment is strongly preferred.
• Proven experience reviewing and interpreting detailed technical specifications.
• Experience preparing tenders and technical compliance documents.
• Experience dealing directly with manufacturers and suppliers.
• Experience sourcing specialised technical equipment locally or internationally.
• Experience managing equipment supply projects from tender stage through delivery, installation and handover.
• Strong client-facing and stakeholder-management experience.
• Experience with government, university, research institution or institutional procurement will be an advantage.

Important

• This position is specifically for the Laboratory, Scientific & Technical Equipment Division.
• It is not a construction site management, road construction or civil works Project Manager position.