FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT SCHOOL OF DESIGN AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT VACANCY NO: IRC 3511 The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Chief Technician in the School of Design and the Built Environment. The Chief Technician in the School of Design and the Built Environment is responsible for overseeing technical operations, managing technical staff, coordinating the purchase and maintenance equipment/supplies, technical troubleshooting and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of various teaching and learning environments in the University. The successful candidate will provide teaching, learning and research support and other technical activities across the Faculty.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Engineering
- Salary: The University offers salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-14
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and coordinate technical services within the School of Design and the Built Environment;
- Contribute to development and implementation of strategies, budgets, and other operational processes
- Supervise, mentor and appraise Senior Technicians, Technicians and other technical support staff;
- Oversee the operation, maintenance, calibration and safe use of laboratories, studios, workshops, computer laboratories and specialized equipment;
- Coordinate technical support for teaching, research, consultancy, innovation and community engagement activities;
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures for laboratories and technical facilities;
- Ensure compliance with University Health, Safety and Environmental regulations and other statutory requirements;
- Prepare technical specifications for the procurement of equipment, software, tools and consumables and oversee inventory and asset management;
- Coordinate equipment servicing, maintenance schedules and replacement plans;
- Provide technical advice and support in the planning, development and upgrading of laboratories, studios and technical facilities;
- Support quality assurance and accreditation processes;
- prepare technical, operational and management reports for the School;
- Recommend decommissioning of obsolete equipment and its replacement;
- Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental mandate, as necessary;
- Develop and manage risk register with clear mitigation strategies;
- Assist with the development of the departmental budget;
- Lead the development and management of the laboratory budget;
- Ensure compliance with legislative and statutory requirements;
- Undertake any other duties as directed by the Head of School in line with the position.
Requirements
- At least a Masters’ degree in any Design and the Built Environment discipline;
- A Bachelors’ degree in the same disciplines may also be considered;
- A minimum of six (6) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at a supervisory role. Experience in higher education or comparable institutions and membership of a recognized and relevant professional body will be added advantages .
- Extensive experience in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management within an academic or research environment;
- Strong leadership and management skills, with demonstrated ability to lead a team and manage complex projects;
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
- Knowledge of relevant safety regulations and standards, with a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment;
- Proven ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a dynamic environment.
Salary
The University offers salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3511 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3511
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for a Chief Technician role in Design and the Built Environment at the University of Botswana?
A Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Building Construction, Civil Engineering, or a related field is usually required. Professional certification from the Botswana Institute of Engineers or registration with relevant professional bodies is often preferred. Several years of technical experience in design, drafting, or construction supervision is typically expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Technician in this field?
Daily tasks include preparing technical drawings using CAD software, supervising junior technicians and artisans, coordinating with architects and engineers on project specifications, and ensuring compliance with building codes and university standards. You may also manage workshop facilities, maintain equipment, and assist with teaching support for practical sessions.
How does the work culture at the University of Botswana compare to private sector engineering roles?
University roles typically offer more structured hours and academic calendar schedules compared to private construction firms. The culture emphasizes collaboration with academic staff, student mentorship, and long-term project timelines rather than fast-paced commercial deadlines. Respect for hierarchy and formal communication channels is common in Botswana's public institutions.
What career progression opportunities exist for Chief Technicians in Botswana's built environment sector?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Technician, Workshop Manager, or Technical Manager positions within the university or move into consultancy and government roles. Further studies toward professional engineering registration or project management certification can open doors to senior technical or administrative positions. Some transition into private practice or construction project management.
What benefits are typically offered for technical positions at public universities in Botswana?
Benefits usually include pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund, medical aid schemes, annual leave of 20-30 days, and paid public holidays. There may also be opportunities for professional development funding, study leave for further education, and subsidized accommodation or transport allowances depending on the specific post.
What should I include in my application to stand out for this role at a Botswana university?
Highlight hands-on experience with AutoCAD, Revit, or other design software, and any previous work in educational or institutional settings. Include evidence of team leadership, project completion, and familiarity with Botswana's building regulations. A well-structured CV with certified copies of qualifications and references from professional mentors strengthens your application.
