Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Science & Technology
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy and Policy Development: Contribute to the development of departmental and school’s strategies, policies, and procedures.
- Technical Support for Teaching, Research, and Learning: (i) Provide technical guidance to multidisciplinary teaching, learning, and research activities. (ii) Plan, coordinate, and schedule geospatial practical sessions, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and effective workload management. (iii) Demonstrate geospatial (vector and raster) data processing techniques and proper use of equipment to students. (iv) Ensure the proper functioning of computer workstations and facilitate access to software, data, and required materials for practical sessions. (v) Assist academic staff in assessing laboratory and fieldwork reports. (vi) Respond promptly to user enquiries and undertake geospatial data processing and map production for publication and keep record of services provided. (vii) Contribute to ongoing research activities, support knowledge creation, intellectual property development, and commercialization.
- Geospatial Laboratory Operations: (i) Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance. (ii) Establish and maintain an inventory of technical equipment, tools, and supplies. (iii) Monitor inventory levels and initiate replenishment as necessary. (iv) Identify faulty or obsolete equipment and recommend repair, replacement, or decommissioning. (v) Ensure laboratories are clean, organized, and safe and maintain records of loaned equipment. (vi) Prepare budget estimates and support procurement tasks for consumables and equipment.
- Geospatial Data Management and Training: (i) Develop and implement data quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols. (ii) Maintain structured geospatial data repositories, including metadata standards and backup systems. (iii) Support the development and maintenance of enterprise spatial data management systems. (iv) Collaborate with relevant units to enhance geospatial data management and service delivery across the university. (v) Conduct geospatial data collection, processing, analysis, and curation, including digitization of analog data such, physical maps, slides and aerial photographs. (vi) Develop, schedule, and/or deliver training programmes for staff and students.
- Safety and Risk Management: (i) Identify and mitigate operational risks. (ii) Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental protocols.
- General Duties: (i) Meet assigned performance targets. (ii) Stay up to date with emerging geospatial technologies and innovations and pursue continuous professional development in geospatial sciences to support the University’s mission. (iii) Perform any other duties as assigned by the Chief Technician or Departmental Chair.
Requirements
- Applicants should have a Bachelor’s Degree in GIS, Remote Sensing or a related field (e.g., Geography, Environmental Science, Information Technology) with a strong GIS and Remote Sensing background. An MSc or higher qualification with a geospatial focus will be an added advantage.
- The individual must have a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, including at least three (3) years at a lower (technician/professional/officer) level, preferably in an academic or research environment. Higher education experience will be an added advantage.
- Registered or eligible for registration as a professional by an appropriate and recognised professional body.
- (i) Demonstrate advanced proficiency in geospatial data processing with both desktop and web-based GIS and digital imagery processing suites, including statistical software and programming language platforms (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, ENVI, ERDAS Imagine, Google Earth Engine, R, and Python) .
- (ii) Have proven experience in processing and analyzing satellite imagery from various sources.
- (iii) Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong record of service.
- (iv) Demonstrate strong practical, technical, and supervisory skills.
How to Apply
REF Code: IRC 3407 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3407
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) stands as the nation's premier institution for higher learning, with its main campus primarily located in Gaborone. Established in 1982, it plays a critical role in advancing the intellectual and human resource capacity essential for Botswana's socio-economic development. UB offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse faculties, including sciences, humanities, business, and education. The university is deeply committed to fostering robust research and innovation, addressing key societal challenges and contributing to the economic diversification of Botswana. Through its dedication to academic excellence and community engagement, UB actively prepares skilled professionals who drive progress across all sectors within Botswana.
Shaping the Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and experience needed for a Senior Geospatial Science Technician role in Botswana?
Typically, a Diploma or Degree in Geospatial Science, Geomatics, Land Surveying, or a related field is required, often coupled with several years of practical experience. Professional certifications in specific GIS software or data management techniques are also highly valued in Botswana's job market.
What do the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Senior Geospatial Science Technician involve?
Daily tasks often involve collecting, processing, and analysing geospatial data using various software and equipment. You would also be responsible for maintaining GIS databases, producing maps and reports, and providing technical support to researchers or students.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for a technician role within an institution like the University of Botswana?
Work culture in Botswana, especially within public institutions, often emphasizes collaboration, respect for hierarchy, and adherence to established procedures. Punctuality and a commitment to continuous learning are highly valued traits for technical roles.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Senior Geospatial Science Technician in Botswana?
Career progression often involves moving into more specialized technical roles, project management, or supervisory positions within the geospatial field. Further education or advanced certifications can also open doors to research or consultancy roles within Botswana or the region.
What typical benefits (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect from an employer like the University of Botswana?
Employees at public institutions in Botswana generally receive a competitive benefits package, including a set number of annual leave days and access to medical aid schemes. Pension contributions are also typically part of the employment terms offered.
How should one apply for such roles in Botswana, and what do employers typically look for?
When applying, ensure your CV clearly highlights relevant technical skills, project experience, and software proficiency, as these are critical for a Senior Technician role. Employers in Botswana often seek candidates with strong problem-solving abilities, a proactive attitude, and good communication skills to fit into a team environment.