SMEC International Pty Ltd seeks an experienced Project Manager Engineer – Electrical to lead the technical delivery of Transmission and Distribution projects. The role involves managing design coordination, execution, procurement support, and construction administration, while guiding a team of expert engineers to achieve project objectives.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-04
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical and project management leadership to ensure timely delivery of project milestones.
- Oversee sub-consultants and monitor overall project performance.
- Communicate effectively with clients, internal teams, contractors, and partners.
- Prepare accurate design and construction documents within budget and schedule.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Professional Registration with a recognized national institution.
- Minimum 20 years’ experience as Project Manager and Lead Engineer with proven design and leadership expertise.
- Advantage: Proficiency in PSSE, DigSilent, or ETAP power analysis software.
How to Apply
Apply by email: proken@smec.com
Address: P.O. Box 2952, Gaborone
Address: P.O. Box 2952, Gaborone
About the Company
SMEC International Pty Ltd is part of the global SMEC group of engineering consultancies and maintains operations in Botswana through its office in Gaborone. The company provides engineering design, project management, and advisory services for transport, water, energy, and urban development projects. In Botswana, SMEC has been involved in major public infrastructure programmes, working alongside government agencies and development partners on roads and other civil works. Its local presence combines international technical expertise with knowledge of regional conditions in Southern Africa. The firm serves both public-sector clients and private developers seeking multidisciplinary engineering support.
Engineering consultancy delivering infrastructure across Botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Project Manager Engineer – Electrical role in Botswana?
A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering accredited by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) or equivalent is essential. Professional registration with the Botswana Institution of Engineers (BIE) is strongly preferred, and certifications such as PRINCE2 Foundation or PMP add value—though local project management training recognised by BIE or the Botswana Innovation Hub may be accepted in practice.
What does a typical day look like for an Electrical Project Manager working on infrastructure projects in Botswana?
You’ll coordinate site inspections, review electrical designs against Botswana Standards (e.g., BS 7671 adapted locally), and liaise with contractors, BPC, and local authorities like the Ministry of Transport and Communications. Daily tasks include progress reporting to clients, managing subcontractor schedules, and ensuring compliance with Botswana’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements and local labour laws.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for engineering project managers in Botswana compared to other countries?
Respect for hierarchy and relationship-based communication is key—consulting senior engineers or community stakeholders before decisions is common practice. Employers expect adaptability to logistical challenges like remote site access, intermittent power supply, and alignment with national development frameworks such as Vision 2036 and the National Development Plan (NDP).
What realistic career progression paths exist for Electrical Project Managers in Botswana’s engineering sector?
With 5+ years’ experience and BIE registration, you can advance to Senior Project Manager or Engineering Manager roles within consultancies or parastatals like BPC or DWSS. Some transition into technical advisory roles with government agencies or pursue entrepreneurship by registering with the Registrar of Companies and obtaining BIE contractor accreditation for SMEs.
What benefits (leave, medical aid, pension) are typically offered to Electrical Project Managers employed by international firms operating in Botswana?
Employers usually provide at least 22 days annual leave, statutory sick leave under the Employment Act, and enrolment in a registered medical aid scheme compliant with Botswana’s Health Professions Council regulations. Pension contributions follow the Botswana Unified Retirement Fund (BURF) framework, with mandatory employer and employee contributions—some firms offer supplementary retirement plans.
How should I apply for this role, and what do employers in Botswana specifically look for in candidates’ applications?
Apply via the employer’s portal or email with a CV clearly highlighting BIE registration status, local project experience (e.g., solar farms, grid upgrades), and familiarity with Botswana’s Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board (PPADB) processes. Employers prioritise evidence of stakeholder engagement with local communities, fluency in English and Setswana, and demonstrated adherence to Botswana’s Occupational Safety and Health Act during past projects.