About Lactalis
The Lactalis Group is a family owned company guided by passion for dairy that was founded in 1933 by André Besnier in Laval in the west of France. Parmalat Botswana has been a part of the international Lactalis family group since the Lactalis Group acquired a majority share in Parmalat SpA in 2011. Lactalis is a global player in the production and distribution of foods that are essential for everyday wellness: milk, dairy products (yoghurt, cream based sauces, desserts and cheese) and fruit beverages. In Southern Africa, Lactalis has operations in South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, Eswatini and Botswana. Lactalis aims to continue building this market leadership for its value-added and branded dairy products and fruit-based beverages. This exciting career opportunity will enable you to apply your business acumen to ensure that Lactalis achieves its challenging objectives during the next phase of its growth in Southern Africa and beyond.
The Company invites suitable candidates to apply for the following vacancies that has arisen in the Company:
JOB TITLE: TECHNICAL MANAGER
Purpose of the Role:
To lead the plant’s Engineering and Maintenance function, ensuring safe, reliable and cost-effective operation of production equipment and utilities. The Technical Manager will be accountable for equipment availability, maintenance strategy and execution, utilities performance, engineering compliance, technical team development and CAPEX/project delivery.
The position requires a strong practical engineering background with the ability to manage both Mechanical and Electrical Engineering systems within a food and beverage manufacturing environment.
Key Accountabilities
- Lead preventive, predictive and corrective maintenance and ensure effective use of the Pragma maintenance system.
- Improve equipment reliability, plant availability and OEE while reducing repeat breakdowns and unplanned downtime.
- Develop and control the Repairs & Maintenance and Utilities budgets.
- Develop the plant technical strategy, asset replacement plans and critical-spares requirements.
- Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of major and recurring equipment failures.
- Ensure statutory compliance and safe operation of boilers, refrigeration, electrical, pressure and other regulated installations.
- Manage and develop the Engineering/Maintenance team, contractors and technical service providers.
- Support Production and Quality in maintaining food safety, product quality and equipment performance.
- Drive energy and utility efficiency covering electricity, steam, refrigeration, compressed air and water.
- Lead Capex and Project Management initiatives for the development and execution in the plant.
Minimum Requirements
- Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or relevant Engineering Degree/National Diploma (N6/T4 or equivalent).
- Minimum 5 years’ engineering/maintenance experience, preferably within FMCG, food, dairy or beverage manufacturing.
- Demonstrated experience leading a maintenance/technical team.
- Demonstrated experience managing CAPEX projects and engineering budgets.
- Strong practical understanding of industrial utilities, processing and packaging equipment.
- PLC/SCADA experience advantageous.
- Experience with NH3 refrigeration, boilers and aseptic/dairy processing equipment will be advantageous.
- Valid driver’s licence.
The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to move beyond reactive maintenance and lead the plant technically – balancing reliability, cost, people, compliance and long-term asset development.
If you are interested and you meet the above qualifications, kindly forward your application and CV to: hrbots@bw.lactalis.com or hand deliver your application at the Lactalis Botswana offices.
CLOSING DATE: 25TH SEPTEMBER 2026
Job Summary
- Employer: Lactalis Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
How to Apply
Forward your application and CV to hrbots@bw.lactalis.com or hand deliver it at the Lactalis Botswana offices by 25 September 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Technical Manager at a food manufacturing company in Botswana?
Usually a bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering is required, with a master's or relevant certification (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma Green Belt) preferred. Practical experience in plant operations, process optimisation, and team leadership is essential. Many employers also value familiarity with local food safety regulations and ISO standards.
What does a typical day look like for a Technical Manager in the engineering department?
A typical day involves overseeing plant maintenance schedules, troubleshooting equipment issues, and collaborating with production teams to improve efficiency. You’ll also review performance metrics, conduct safety audits, and coordinate with suppliers for spare parts. Meetings with senior management to report on KPIs and project status are common.
How does the work culture in Botswana influence the role of a Technical Manager?
Botswana’s work culture values punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Technical managers are expected to communicate clearly with both local staff and expatriate teams, balancing formal reporting with informal mentorship. Flexibility during peak production periods and a focus on continuous improvement are also key expectations.
What career progression can I expect after becoming a Technical Manager in Botswana?
After gaining experience as a Technical Manager, you could advance to Senior Technical Manager, Plant Manager, or Regional Engineering Director, depending on performance and company size. Opportunities for international assignments or cross-functional roles in R&D and quality assurance are also common. Continuous professional development, such as advanced certifications or an MBA, can accelerate progression.
What benefits and leave policies can I expect as a Technical Manager in Botswana?
Technical Managers in Botswana typically receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid annual leave, public holidays, medical aid contributions, and a pension scheme. Many employers also offer performance bonuses, professional development allowances, and occasional relocation support. Leave policies usually align with the Botswana Labour Act, providing statutory sick leave and maternity/paternity leave.
