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 Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. The position holder 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 Chief Technician will provide teaching, learning and research support and other technical activities across the Faculty.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-02
Key Responsibilities
- (i) Contributing to the development of University and departmental strategies, policies, plans, and procedures, and leading their implementation at the unit/laboratory level;
- (ii) Developing and implementing technical services plans in line with departmental /school/Faculty strategies;
- (iii) Managing operational performance against established departmental goals and objectives, identifying areas for improvement, and recommending corrective actions where needed;
- (iv) Staying updated with key trends to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation.
- (v) Planning, coordinating, and scheduling laboratory sessions.
- (vi) Providing timely technical support for various internal and external projects and activities.
- (vii) Ensuring that equipment and materials are available for laboratories.
- (viii) Overseeing the provision of teaching support during laboratory sessions, tutorials and practical classes through demonstrations, hands-on assistance for group practical work and tutorials,
- (ix) Assessing student laboratory reports and providing feedback under the supervision of the course lecturer or departmental chairperson.
- (x) Ensuring the development and management of an accurate and up-to-date information management system.
- (xi) Contributing to on-going research activities to support knowledge creation, intellectual property, and commercialization in- line with area of expertise.
- (xii) Ensuring efficient allocation of resources and workload management to support teaching and learning;
- (xiii) Facilitating the establishment and maintenance of a comprehensive inventory of technical equipment, tools, and supplies.
- (xiv) Managing the operation and monitor equipment or materials for experiments, including setting up equipment and laboratory experiments
- (xv) Coordinating regular maintenance, calibration, and repair of technical equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- (xvi) Recommending decommissioning of obsolete equipment and its replacement;
- (xvii) Liaising with relevant offices to ensure the organization, cleanliness, and safety of laboratories, workshops, and technical facilities.
- (xviii) Implementing safety protocols, ensure compliance with regulations, and conduct regular safety inspections.
- (xix) Collaborating with faculty members and researchers to understand their technical requirements and provide appropriate solutions.
- (xx) Coordinating the delivery of technical support to departmental /school/Faculty members, researchers, and students to ensure that they are assisted with equipment setup, operation, and troubleshooting;
- (xxi) Providing excellent customer service ensuring client and stakeholder satisfaction.
- (xxii) Establishing and maintaining partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental /school/Faculty mandate, as necessary.
- (xxiii) Resolving customer enquiries and issues in a timely and efficient manner.
- (xxiv) Identifying and address areas of improvement for customer and stakeholder experience;
- (xxv) Developing and managing risk register with clear mitigation strategies.
- (xxvi) Addressing audit findings and recommendations to improve processes and controls.
- (xxvii) Ensuring compliance with legislative and statutory requirements;
- (xxviii) Participating in recruitment and ensuring retention and development of a diverse team.
- (xxix) Supporting unit level professional development activities, including mentoring, training, and opportunities for advancement.
- (xxx) Conducting regular performance evaluations and providing constructive feedback to support continuous improvement to employees under supervision.
- (xxxi) Engage and discipline staff in accordance with defined human resource management policies and procedures and prevailing labor laws;
- (xxxii) Assisting with the development of the departmental budget.
- (xxxiii) Leading the development and management of the Medical Laboratory budget.
- (xxxiv) Recommending expenditure in accordance with delegated limits.
- (xxxiii) Performing any other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor in line with the scope and objectives of the role.
Requirements
- (i) A Master’s degree in any of the following fields: Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering; Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognized institution;
- (ii) A Bachelor’s degree in any of the following fields: Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognized institution may be considered based on area of specialization.
- (i) A minimum of six (6) years of relevant work experience, three (3) years of which should have been at a supervisory role;
- (ii) Extensive experience in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management within an academic or research environment;
- (iii) Strong leadership and management skills, with demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex technical projects;
- (iv) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
- (v) Knowledge of relevant safety regulations and standards, with a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment;
- (vi) Proven ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a dynamic environment.
- Registration with, or eligibility for registration with, the Engineering Registration Board (ERB) is required.
Salary
competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC3477 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC3477
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 qualifications and certifications are typically required for the Chief Technician role at the University of Botswana?
Applicants usually need a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil) from a recognised institution such as UB or BOCODOL, plus substantial hands-on technical experience. Registration with the Botswana Institute of Engineers (BIE) is highly valued, and relevant trade certifications (e.g., from BOSETA or international bodies like City & Guilds) strengthen applications.
What does a typical day look like for a Chief Technician in an engineering department at UB?
Daily duties include supervising technical staff and students during lab sessions, maintaining and calibrating engineering equipment, preparing experimental setups for teaching and research, and liaising with academic staff on curriculum support needs. You’ll also manage inventory, troubleshoot instrumentation failures, and ensure compliance with UB’s safety and quality assurance protocols.
How does the work culture and professional expectations for technicians differ in Botswana compared to other countries?
In Botswana, respect for hierarchy and collaborative teamwork are central — senior technicians are expected to mentor junior staff and students while maintaining strong communication with academic supervisors. Punctuality, reliability, and adherence to institutional procedures (e.g., UB’s HR policies and Public Service Act guidelines) are non-negotiable, and cultural sensitivity—especially when supporting diverse student cohorts—is essential.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Chief Technician at UB or within Botswana’s public sector?
Career growth may include promotion to Senior Chief Technician or Technical Manager roles within UB, or transition into technical training coordination via BOSETA or the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA). Some pursue further academic qualifications (e.g., part-time BEng or MSc) to move into lecturing or academic administration, supported by UB’s staff development programmes.
What benefits—such as leave, medical aid, and pension—can a Chief Technician expect at UB?
UB staff are covered under the Public Officers Pension Fund (POPF) and receive 30 days’ annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave per the Public Service Regulations. Medical aid is provided through the Government Health Insurance Scheme (GHIS), and additional benefits may include housing allowance, study leave, and access to UB’s staff wellness and counselling services.
How do I apply for the Chief Technician role at UB, and what do hiring managers specifically look for in candidates?
Applications must be submitted via UB’s official recruitment portal or through the Public Service Commission (PSC) when advertised, accompanied by certified academic documents, proof of registration (e.g., BIE), and detailed work references. Hiring panels prioritise demonstrable leadership in technical teams, familiarity with UB’s engineering labs or similar HEI environments, and evidence of problem-solving in resource-constrained settings common in Botswana’s public institutions.