Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Tourism & Hospitality
- Closing Date: 2026-09-09
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and repair Toyota Land Cruisers, boats, generators and associated equipment.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical and automotive electrical faults.
- Implement preventative maintenance.
- Provide technical support in camp, including responding to emergency breakdowns.
- Maintain high workshop standards, ensure compliance with safety procedures, and manage maintenance reporting and spare parts inventory.
Requirements
- Minimum 5 years’ experience as a qualified mechanic.
- Extensive experience working on Toyota Land Cruisers and boat engines.
- Strong diagnostic skills in mechanical and automotive electrical systems.
- Proven experience working independently in remote or bush environments.
- Valid driver’s licence (4×4 experience essential); boat handling experience is an advantage.
- Ability to work under pressure
How to Apply
About the Company
Natural Selection Safaris operates as a distinctive safari company within Botswana, committed to offering unique and memorable travel experiences. They are known for providing 'safaris of character,' designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the region. Central to their philosophy is 'Regenerative Safari Tourism,' emphasizing sustainable practices and a positive impact on the environment and local communities. This approach differentiates them in Botswana's competitive tourism sector, reflecting a deep appreciation for Africa's pristine landscapes. Their operations contribute to Botswana's reputation as a premier destination for responsible and authentic wildlife adventures.
Regenerative Safari Tourism for authentic Botswana experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a mechanic role in Botswana’s safari tourism sector?
A valid Botswana National Vocational Qualification (BNVQ) Level 4 or higher in Automotive Mechanics is commonly expected, along with a current Botswana Road Transport Permit (RTP) endorsement for light and/or heavy vehicles. Employers also value practical experience servicing 4x4s, diesel engines, and off-road equipment — often gained through apprenticeships with registered workshops or previous safari camp maintenance roles.
What does a typical day look like for a mechanic working with a safari operator like Natural Selection Safaris?
Daily tasks include preventive maintenance and emergency repairs on fleet vehicles (e.g., Land Cruisers, Unimogs), checking tyres, brakes, suspension, and recovery gear before and after game drives. You’ll also assist with basic generator, solar system, and water pump upkeep at remote camps — often requiring self-reliance and adaptability due to limited workshop infrastructure and variable road conditions.
How does the work culture for mechanics in Botswana’s tourism industry differ from other sectors?
Work culture emphasises teamwork, flexibility, and respect for hierarchy — especially when coordinating with camp managers, guides, and conservation staff. Punctuality, initiative, and willingness to support non-mechanical duties (e.g., assisting with camp setup or fuel logistics) are highly valued, reflecting Botswana’s broader emphasis on ubuntu and service-oriented hospitality norms.
What career progression opportunities exist for mechanics in Botswana’s safari tourism sector?
Experienced mechanics may advance to Senior Mechanic or Fleet Maintenance Supervisor roles, often involving mentoring junior staff and managing vehicle inventories across multiple camps. Some transition into technical training roles with vocational institutions or partner with tourism associations like BTOA to contribute to national standards development for safari vehicle maintenance.
What benefits — such as leave, medical aid, or pension — are typically offered to mechanics in this sector?
Most reputable safari operators provide at least 21 days of annual leave, sick leave per the Botswana Employment Act, and access to group medical aid schemes — though coverage levels vary by employer. Pension contributions are usually made via the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) under the National Pension Scheme, with some employers offering supplementary retirement plans.
How should I apply for a mechanic role with a safari company in Botswana, and what do employers specifically look for?
Applications are typically submitted via email or online portals with a CV, certified copies of qualifications, and a letter highlighting hands-on 4x4 and remote-camp experience. Employers prioritise proven reliability, clean driving records, familiarity with Botswana’s terrain and climate challenges, and evidence of problem-solving in low-resource settings — often verified through references from previous tourism or conservation employers.