Вакансія – Workforce Development Coordinator for USAID-funded Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure in Ukraine Activity, DAI Global, LLC

Activity Background:   

The purpose of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure in Ukraine Activity is to strengthen the resilience of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure from cyberattacks by establishing trusted collaboration between key cybersecurity stakeholders in the government, private sector, academia, and civil society. The activity aims to achieve this goal by implementing the following activity components:  

Component 1: Strengthen the cybersecurity enabling environment  

The legal, regulatory, and institutional framework for national cybersecurity in Ukraine needs to be strengthened and aligned with international standards and best practices. This component will strengthen the cybersecurity resilience of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure sectors by addressing legislative gaps, promoting good governance, enabling collaboration between stakeholders, and supporting cybersecurity institutions. This component will also build the technical capacity of key sectors through increased access to cybersecurity technology and equipment.   

Component 2: Develop Ukraine’s cybersecurity workforce  

Ukraine suffers from a severe shortage of cybersecurity professionals. This component of the USAID Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure in Ukraine Activity will address workforce gaps through activities that develop new cybersecurity talent and build the capacity of existing talent. These activities will address the entire workforce pipeline, the quality of education received by cybersecurity specialists, and industry training programs to rapidly upskill Ukraine’s workforce to respond to immediate cybersecurity vulnerabilities.  

Component 3: Build a resilient cybersecurity industry  

A growing cybersecurity industry in Ukraine will contribute directly to national security and prosperity. This component will seek to build trust and collaboration between the public and private sector to develop innovative solutions for future cybersecurity challenges; spur investment and growth in the broader cybersecurity market in Ukraine through greater access to financing; support smaller cybersecurity companies to rapidly increase the number of local cybersecurity service providers; and offer mechanisms for Ukrainian firms to connect with industry partners to enable better access to innovations and business opportunities.   

1. Role’s purpose:   

Under the supervision of the Workforce Development (WFD) Lead, the Workforce Development Coordinator will work closely with higher education institutions, private sector companies, and other stakeholders to develop, enhance, and update educational and internship programs aimed at preparing students for careers in cybersecurity. This role will focus on aligning academic curricula with industry needs, developing internship opportunities, and ensuring that students acquire the skills necessary to address emerging cybersecurity challenges. The Coordinator will foster partnerships, manage program development, and drive workforce development initiatives to ensure a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals. 

• Collaborate with higher education institutions to assess and update cybersecurity curricula to match industry trends and needs. 

• Ensure that academic programs reflect the latest cybersecurity technologies, methodologies, and regulations. 

• Facilitate the integration of practical, hands-on learning experiences into the educational programs. 

• Collaborate with higher educational institutions, private sector partners, and government agencies, like Ministry of Education and Science (MoES) and State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection (SSSCIP) to develop the internship programs for students entering the cybersecurity field.   

• Develop and implement programs with academia stakeholders focusing on building sustainable pipeline of cybersecurity professionals in Ukraine. 

• Organize and implement via subcontractors and grantees the national events to facilitate the collaboration between the cross-sectoral stakeholders and advance filling the workforce gaps at the operators of critical infrastructure.  

• Coordinate the implementation of educational programs, including setting objectives, tracking progress, and reporting outcomes. 

• Prepare educational materials and regular reports on the status of development of skilled cybersecurity professionals. 

• Conduct regular research on industry needs, emerging cybersecurity threats, and workforce trends to inform educational programs. 

• Analyze workforce gaps in cybersecurity and work with stakeholders to address these through targeted programs.  

• Promote cybersecurity career opportunities to students through events, workshops, and information sessions. 

• Advocate for continuous improvement in educational standards to address the evolving cybersecurity landscape. 

                     3    Qualifications/Experience:   

• Degree, preferably a Master’s in Information Technology, Education, Public Administration, Business development, or another relevant field.   
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in developing and managing educational or training projects, including identifying learning needs   
• Proven experience in working collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, and private sector partners.  
• Excellent project management, communication, and organizational skills 
• Demonstrated leadership, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills.  
• Experience in the area of education of IT / Cybersecurity is an advantage.  
• Experience with educational program development and trainee’s needs assessment preferred  
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  
• Solid writing skills   
• Fluency in English required   
• Ukrainian – native speaker  

   

Qualified candidates should send their CV and cover letter to [email protected] by 09 November 2024 6:00pm Kyiv time. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.  Only short-listed candidates will receive notice requesting additional information.