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3 hours ago
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 Manager: Electrical and Mechanical (Plant) in the Department of Facilities Management .
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Engineering
- Salary: competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- i. Develop, implement and manage planned preventive maintenance (PPM) programmes for all electrical and mechanical plant systems;
- ii. Oversee emergency and reactive maintenance of electrical and mechanical faults, ensuring compliance with response time standards;
- iii. Manage and maintain the University’s high-voltage electrical infrastructure, standby generators, distribution boards, and associated equipment;
- iv. Oversee HVAC systems (chiller plants, AHUs, fan coil units, VRF systems, split units) across all campus buildings;
- v. Manage the University’s solar energy systems, monitoring performance and ensuring optimal output;
- vi. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation including the Electricity Act, Occupational Health and Safety regulations, and environmental standards;
- vii. Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of technicians and artisans in the electrical and mechanical section;
- viii. Manage external service providers and maintenance contractors, monitoring SLA compliance;
- ix. Develop and manage the unit budget, control expenditure and provide financial reports;
- x. Maintain an accurate asset register for all electrical and mechanical plant equipment;
- xi. Contribute to strategic planning and the development of departmental policies and procedures;
- xii. Develop and implement electrical and mechanical plans in line with the departmental strategy;
- xiii. Manage the unit’s operational performance against established goals and objectives identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective action as needed;
- xiv. Contribute to the development of University and departmental strategies, policies, plans and procedures, and lead implementation at a unit level;
- xv. Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental mandate, as necessary;
- xvi. Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement to employees under supervision;
- xvii. Undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with the role.
Requirements
- A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electro-Mechanical Engineering is required;
- Registration or eligibility for registration with a recognised professional engineering body (e.g., Engineers Registration Board of Botswana) is required;
- A postgraduate qualification in Engineering, Facilities Management, or Business Management will be an added advantage .
- A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience in electrical and/or mechanical plant maintenance and management;
- At least four (4) years must have been at a supervisory or management level in a large, multi-site organisation;
- Proven experience managing HVAC systems (chillers, AHUs, VRF), standby generators, high-voltage distribution, and solar systems;
- Experience in managing outsourced maintenance contractors and service-level agreements;
- Proficiency in computerised maintenance management systems (CMMS).
Salary
competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3525
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 this role in Botswana?
A degree in electrical or mechanical engineering is essential, along with registration with the Engineers Registration Board of Botswana (EIRA) or the Botswana Institution of Engineers (BIE). Postgraduate management qualifications or experience in plant operations are often expected for a senior role.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Manager: Electrical and Mechanical (Plant) at a university?
You will oversee the maintenance, repair, and reliable operation of all electrical and mechanical plant systems across the campus. This includes leading technical teams, planning preventive maintenance, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with local safety and environmental regulations.
What is the local work culture and expectation for authority levels at institutions like the University of Botswana?
Expect a formal and hierarchical work environment where decisions often require multiple approval layers from senior management or committees. The culture values reliability, safety, and documented procedures, so you should be prepared for structured reporting and regular audits.
What realistic career progression paths exist for someone in this managerial engineering role in Botswana?
You can progress to higher institutional roles such as Director of Estates and Facilities, or move into consultancy or project management within Botswana's engineering sector. Building a record of successful large-scale plant management and obtaining further certifications will improve your mobility.
What typical benefits are offered for managerial roles at universities in Botswana?
Benefits generally include a competitive salary, medical aid, pension contributions, and generous annual and sick leave. Depending on the contract, you may also receive a housing allowance or access to staff accommodation, but these vary by employer and negotiation.
How should I apply and what do employers in Botswana like the University of Botswana look for?
Check the University of Botswana's official careers portal or major local newspapers for vacancy adverts and follow the specified application format. They look for proven leadership in plant maintenance, EIRA registration, familiarity with Botswana's regulatory environment, and strong references from previous engineering roles.
