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: Infrastructure and Services in the Department of Facilities Management . JOB PURPOSE The Manager: Infrastructure and Services is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and maintenance of all infrastructure and services related to the University’s facilities. This successful candidate will manage a team to ensure the functionality, safety and sustainability of physical assets, utilities and related services. The incumbent will coordinate and manage reactive and planned maintenance across the University’s building infrastructure, civil works, plumbing and water services, grounds, landscaping and cleaning services oversight, ensures that all facilities meet functional, safety and compliance standards across the University’s campuses.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Facilities Management
- Salary: competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and manage planned preventive maintenance (PPM) programmes for all University buildings and civil infrastructure;
- Oversee reactive maintenance requests, ensuring compliance with SLA response standards (Emergency: 2 hrs; Routine: 48 hrs);
- Manage building maintenance for all structures including roofing, structural elements, windows, doors, and internal finishes;
- Oversee plumbing, water, and sanitation maintenance across all campuses;
- Manage grounds maintenance, landscaping, and external cleaning service oversight;
- Monitor and manage outsourced maintenance contractors, cleaning, and landscaping service providers;
- Maintain an accurate building asset register and condition assessment database;
- Ensure compliance with relevant building regulations, health and safety legislation, and environmental standards;
- Supervise and develop a multi-disciplinary maintenance team;
- Develop and manage the infrastructure and services budget;
- Assist with the development and management of the departmental budget;
- Contribute to the development of University and departmental strategies, policies, plans and procedures, and lead implementation at a unit level;
- Develop and implement infrastructure and services plans in line with the departmental strategy;
- Manage the unit’s operational performance against established goals and objectives identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective action as needed;
- Develop and implement strategies to ensure the reliability, availability, and efficiency of infrastructure components;
- Manage day-to-day operations of campus facilities, ensuring they meet safety, regulatory, and accessibility standards;
- Establish service level agreements (SLAs) and monitor performance to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction;
- Provide excellent customer service ensuring client and stakeholder satisfaction;
- Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery of the departmental mandate, as necessary;
- Participate in recruitment and ensure retention and development of a diverse team;
- Participate in recruitment and ensure retention and development of a diverse team;
- Develop and manage infrastructure and services risk register with clear mitigation strategies;
- Undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with the role.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Building Science, Construction Management, Architecture, Facilities Management or a related discipline;
- A Master’s degree or postgraduate qualification in Facilities Management, Project Management or Business Administration or other relevant areas will be added advantages ;
- Registration or eligibility for registration with a recognised professional body (e.g., Engineers Registration Board (ERB), Botswana Institute of Architects) is required.
- Certification in facilities management or a related field is desirable.
- A minimum of six (6) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at senior officer level of relevant experience in building maintenance, facilities management, or infrastructure management;
- At least four (4) years at a supervisory or management level in a large organisation with a complex, multi-building portfolio;
- Experience in managing outsourced service providers and monitoring service-level agreements;
- Demonstrated experience with planned preventive maintenance systems and CMMS platforms;
- Knowledge of relevant building legislation, codes, and standards.
- Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team;
- Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team;
- Solid understanding of budgeting, financial management, and resource allocation;
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on continuous improvement;
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels;
- Project management skills and experience in managing complex infrastructure projects;
- Technical knowledge of building systems, civil infrastructure, and facilities maintenance.
Salary
competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3524 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3524
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 Manager: Infrastructure and Services role at the University of Botswana?
Employers in Botswana usually expect a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or facilities management, with a master's degree often an advantage. Professional certifications such as PR Eng (Professional Engineer), or membership in bodies like the Botswana Institution of Engineers (BIE) or IFMA, can strengthen your application. Practical experience in large-scale infrastructure operations or campus facilities is essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this facilities management role?
You will oversee maintenance of buildings, utilities, and grounds, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. The role includes managing budgets, supervising technical staff, coordinating contractors, and preparing reports for university management. You will also plan preventive maintenance and respond to infrastructure breakdowns to minimise disruption to campus operations.
What should I know about the local work culture and expectations at a large public institution like the University of Botswana?
Decisions can be hierarchical and consultative, so patience with procurement and approval processes is essential. Punctuality, formal communication, and respect for protocol are highly valued in the Botswana public sector, and you should be ready for a collaborative environment with diverse teams. Building relationships with both management and unionised workers is key to smooth operations.
What realistic career progression paths exist for someone in this infrastructure and services management position?
From this role, you can advance to senior management positions such as Director of Estates or Facilities, or move into broader operations leadership within the university or other parastatals. With the right experience and networking, opportunities also exist in government infrastructure projects or private-sector facilities management firms across Botswana. Continuous professional development, such as an MBA or project management credentials, can accelerate upward mobility.
What typical benefits should I expect besides salary for this University of Botswana position?
Standard benefits in Botswana's para-statal sector include a provident fund or pension scheme, medical aid contributions, and a housing or transport allowance, though these vary by employer. You can also expect annual leave of at least 30 days, plus public holidays, and access to staff development or study assistance programmes. Overtime or standby allowances may be provided depending on the operational demands of the role.
How should I apply and what do Botswana employers look for in a candidate for this role?
Applications are typically submitted online through the University of Botswana's careers portal, with a cover letter, updated CV, and certified copies of certificates and identity documents. Employers look for proven leadership in managing infrastructure, familiarity with local building codes and procurement regulations, and evidence of delivering projects on budget. Highlighting your experience with public sector stakeholders and your ability to manage diverse teams will make you stand out.
