FINAL CUT GRADER OPERATOR – Lejwehill Group (Proprietary) Limited 283 views

A National Certificate in Civil Engineering, Construction, or Surveying from a Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA)-accredited institution is commonly expected. Relevant short courses in earthworks, grading equipment operation, or safety (e.g., OSHA-aligned or BOHS-certified training) are highly valued. Some employers may accept equivalent experience with documented competency in operating motor graders and interpreting site plans approved by the Department of Roads or local councils.

You’ll conduct precision grading of sub-base and final surfaces using motor graders, following survey pegs and laser-guided specifications set by site engineers. Daily tasks include coordinating with surveyors and foremen, performing pre-start equipment checks, maintaining accurate work logs, and adhering to safety protocols aligned with Botswana’s Occupational Safety and Health Act. Weather conditions—especially seasonal rains—often affect scheduling and require adaptive planning on remote or rural sites.

Respect for hierarchy and clear communication with supervisors and traditional site leaders (e.g., foremen with long-standing local experience) is essential. Punctuality, reliability, and willingness to participate in team briefings—including in Setswana where appropriate—are widely expected. Employers also value demonstrated knowledge of local environmental regulations, such as those enforced by the Department of Environmental Affairs regarding soil erosion control on graded areas.

With experience and additional certification (e.g., BQA-accredited Supervisory or Plant Management qualifications), you may advance to roles like Plant Supervisor, Site Foreman, or Assistant Project Engineer. Some operators transition into equipment training or become licensed plant examiners accredited by the Botswana Construction Industry Training Board (BCITB). Continued professional development through BCITB workshops and membership in the Botswana Institute of Engineers (BIE) supports longer-term growth.

Employers registered with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) must provide at least 24 days of paid annual leave and statutory sick leave under the Employment Act. Most reputable contractors offer group medical aid through providers like Medshield Botswana or BONFIRE, and contribute to the Botswana National Pension Fund (BNPF) as mandated. Some larger firms also provide transport allowances or accommodation on remote projects, especially during major infrastructure contracts.

Submit your CV and certified copies of qualifications to the employer via email or in person, clearly referencing the job title and including proof of any valid driver’s licence (Class E preferred) and BCITB-registered plant operator card. Employers prioritise verifiable field experience on similar projects—especially those funded by government entities like the Ministry of Transport and Communications—and assess practical competence during on-site assessments or simulator tests. Demonstrating familiarity with local tender processes (e.g., via Botswana Public Procurement Regulatory Authority guidelines) strengthens your application.