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 Senior Technician (Geospatial Science) in the Department of Environmental Science. The Senior Technician (Geospatial Science) plays a vital role in supporting teaching and learning environments by preparing and maintaining laboratory and/or workshop equipment and materials. The position holder ensures that all facilities within the faculty, school or department are in optimal working order, uphold safety and operational standards and provide technical assistance to faculty and students. In addition, they contribute to effective delivery of academic programs through reliable teaching support and seamless coordination of practical sessions.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Information Technology
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy and Policy Development: Contribute to the development of departmental and school’s strategies, policies, and procedures.
- Technical Support for Teaching, Research, and Learning: (i) Provide technical guidance to multidisciplinary teaching, learning, and research activities.
- (ii) Plan, coordinate, and schedule geospatial practical sessions, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and effective workload management.
- (iii) Demonstrate geospatial (vector and raster) data processing techniques and proper use of equipment to students.
- (iv) Ensure the proper functioning of computer workstations and facilitate access to software, data, and required materials for practical sessions.
- (v) Assist academic staff in assessing laboratory and fieldwork reports.
- (vi) Respond promptly to user enquiries and undertake geospatial data processing and map production for publication and keep record of services provided.
- (vii) Contribute to ongoing research activities, support knowledge creation, intellectual property development, and commercialization.
- Geospatial Laboratory Operations: (i) Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- (ii) Establish and maintain an inventory of technical equipment, tools, and supplies.
- (iii) Monitor inventory levels and initiate replenishment as necessary.
- (iv) Identify faulty or obsolete equipment and recommend repair, replacement, or decommissioning.
- (v) Ensure laboratories are clean, organized, and safe and maintain records of loaned equipment.
- (vi) Prepare budget estimates and support procurement tasks for consumables and equipment.
- Geospatial Data Management and Training: (i) Develop and implement data quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols.
- (ii) Maintain structured geospatial data repositories, including metadata standards and backup systems.
- (iii) Support the development and maintenance of enterprise spatial data management systems.
- (iv) Collaborate with relevant units to enhance geospatial data management and service delivery across the university.
- (v) Conduct geospatial data collection, processing, analysis, and curation, including digitization of analog data such, physical maps, slides and aerial photographs.
- (vi) Develop, schedule, and/or deliver training programmes for staff and students.
- Safety and Risk Management: (i) Identify and mitigate operational risks.
- (ii) Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental protocols.
- General Duties: (i) Meet assigned performance targets.
- (ii) Stay up to date with emerging geospatial technologies and innovations and pursue continuous professional development in geospatial sciences to support the University’s mission.
- (iii) Perform any other duties as assigned by the Chief Technician or Departmental Chair.
Requirements
- Applicants should have a Bachelor’s Degree in GIS, Remote Sensing or a related field (e.g., Geography, Environmental Science, Information Technology) with a strong GIS and Remote Sensing background. An MSc or higher qualification with a geospatial focus will be an added advantage.
- The individual must have a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, including at least three (3) years at a lower (technician/professional/officer) level, preferably in an academic or research environment. Higher education experience will be an added advantage.
- Registered or eligible for registration as a professional by an appropriate and recognised professional body.
- (i) Demonstrate advanced proficiency in geospatial data processing with both desktop and web-based GIS and digital imagery processing suites, including statistical software and programming language platforms (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, ENVI, ERDAS Imagine, Google Earth Engine, R, and Python) .
- (ii) Have proven experience in processing and analyzing satellite imagery from various sources.
- (iii) Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong record of service.
- (iv) Demonstrate strong practical, technical, and supervisory skills.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3407
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) stands as the nation's premier institution for higher learning, with its main campus primarily located in Gaborone. Established in 1982, it plays a critical role in advancing the intellectual and human resource capacity essential for Botswana's socio-economic development. UB offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse faculties, including sciences, humanities, business, and education. The university is deeply committed to fostering robust research and innovation, addressing key societal challenges and contributing to the economic diversification of Botswana. Through its dedication to academic excellence and community engagement, UB actively prepares skilled professionals who drive progress across all sectors within Botswana.
Shaping the Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Senior Geospatial Science Technician role at the University of Botswana?
Candidates typically need a diploma or degree in Geospatial Science, Geomatics, GIS, or a related field from a recognized institution. Extensive practical experience with GIS software like ArcGIS, QGIS, and remote sensing tools is also crucial. Specific certifications in these technologies can further enhance an application.
What does a Senior Geospatial Science Technician typically do on a day-to-day basis at the University of Botswana?
Daily responsibilities involve managing and analyzing geospatial data, creating maps and spatial databases, and providing technical support for research projects and academic staff. You would also maintain specialized geospatial equipment and software, assisting both staff and students with their practical and research needs.
What are the general work culture and expectations for a technical role like this within a university setting in Botswana?
The work culture in a Botswanan university is typically collaborative and research-oriented, valuing professionalism and dedication among staff. There is an expectation for punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and a commitment to continuous learning to stay updated with new technologies and methodologies.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Senior Geospatial Science Technician at the University of Botswana?
Career progression could involve moving into a lead technician position, specializing in a niche area like advanced remote sensing, or becoming a project manager for geospatial initiatives within the university. Further education, such as a master's degree, could also open pathways into research or even lecturing roles.
What are the typical benefits packages, such as leave, medical aid, and pension, offered for this type of role at the University of Botswana?
Universities in Botswana generally offer competitive benefits packages, including annual leave, sick leave, and often a provident or pension fund contribution for employees. Medical aid schemes are typically provided, with options that may include local providers such as Botswana Medical Aid Society.
What is the typical application process for this role, and what qualities do employers in Botswana specifically look for in candidates?
The application process usually involves submitting a detailed CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts, followed by interviews and potentially a practical skills assessment. Employers in Botswana look for strong technical proficiency, relevant practical experience, good communication skills, and a proactive problem-solving attitude.