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 and certifications are typically required for a Chief Technician role in Design and the Built Environment at a university in Botswana?
A minimum of a Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related built environment field is usually required. Professional registration with the Botswana Institute of Architects, Botswana Institute of Engineers, or similar regulatory body is often preferred or mandatory. Additional certifications in CAD software, project management, or health and safety compliance strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Technician in this field?
You will supervise technical staff, oversee design documentation, coordinate construction or maintenance projects, and ensure compliance with building codes and university standards. Daily tasks include reviewing technical drawings, managing workshop or laboratory facilities, and liaising with academic staff to support teaching and research activities. You may also be responsible for procurement of materials and equipment within approved budgets.
How does workplace culture and hierarchy function in Botswana's public university sector?
Respect for seniority and formal communication channels is important; decisions often require consultation with multiple levels of management. Punctuality and reliability are valued, though flexibility exists around community obligations and cultural events. Building relationships through face-to-face meetings is preferred over purely digital communication, and patience with bureaucratic processes is essential.
What career progression opportunities exist for Chief Technicians in Botswana's built environment sector?
Progression typically moves to Senior Chief Technician, Technical Manager, or Facilities Director roles within the university or public sector. With further qualifications, some transition into academic positions, consulting, or establish private practices. Professional development through the Botswana Qualifications Authority and international affiliations can accelerate advancement.
What benefits are commonly offered for full-time technical positions at public institutions like the University of Botswana?
Benefits usually include pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or similar schemes, medical aid coverage, and generous annual leave entitlements. Housing allowances or subsidized accommodation may be available, along with professional development funding. Gratuity or severance benefits often apply upon completion of service contracts.
What should I include in my application, and what do employers in Botswana prioritize when hiring for this role?
Submit a detailed CV highlighting technical competencies, certified copies of academic and professional credentials, and references from previous supervisors or registered professionals. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with local building regulations, proficiency in industry-standard software, and evidence of team leadership. A well-written cover letter explaining your understanding of the university's teaching and research mission significantly strengthens your candidacy.
