Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Science
- 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.
- Professional registration: Registered or eligible for registration as a professional by an appropriate and recognised professional body.
- 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) .
- Have proven experience in processing and analyzing satellite imagery from various sources.
- Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong record of service.
- Demonstrate strong practical, technical, and supervisory skills.
Salary
competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3407
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 are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Senior Technician in Geospatial Science in Botswana?
For this role, a Diploma or Degree in Geospatial Science, Geomatics, Land Surveying, or a related field is typically expected. Relevant professional certifications in GIS software or remote sensing platforms can also be highly advantageous. Employers often look for a strong academic background combined with practical experience.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Senior Geospatial Science Technician in a university setting?
Day-to-day tasks often involve operating and maintaining geospatial equipment, managing GIS databases, and assisting researchers or lecturers with data collection and analysis. You would also be responsible for troubleshooting technical issues and providing practical training to students on geospatial software and hardware.
What is the typical work culture and what are the general expectations for a technician role in a Botswana university?
The work culture in Botswana universities often emphasizes collaboration, respect, and a commitment to academic support. Punctuality, reliability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are highly valued, alongside the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Senior Technician in Geospatial Science in Botswana?
Career progression might involve advancing to supervisory roles, specializing in advanced geospatial technologies, or moving into research support coordination. Further education, such as a Master's degree, can also open doors to more senior technical or even teaching positions within the university or other organizations.
What are the typical benefits packages offered to senior technical staff at a university in Botswana?
Benefits usually include standard provisions such as annual leave, sick leave, and often a medical aid scheme to assist with healthcare costs. Many institutions also offer a pension scheme or provident fund, as well as opportunities for professional development and training.
What do employers in Botswana typically look for in applications for a Senior Technician role, and what's the best way to apply?
Employers seek candidates with a strong technical skillset, proven experience in geospatial applications, and excellent problem-solving abilities. A well-structured CV highlighting relevant projects and a cover letter demonstrating your suitability are crucial for a successful application.