FACULTY OF NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
VACANCY NO.: IRC 3408
The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Chief Technician in the Department of Physics.
The Chief Technician is responsible for overseeing technical operations, managing technical staff, coordinating the purchase and maintenance equipment/ supplies, technical troubleshooting, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of various teaching and learning environments in the University. The successful candidate will provide teaching, learning and research support and other technical activities of the Faculty.
Responsibilities: Include the following;
(i) Supervision of technical staff within the Department of Physics (ii) Contributing to the development and implementation of School, Faculty and University strategies, policies, plans, and operational procedures; (iii) Developing and implementing technical service plans aligned with the School’s strategic objectives; (iv) Monitoring operational performance, identify areas for improvement and recommend corrective measures to enhance efficiency and service delivery;
Teaching and Learning Support: (i) Planning, coordinating and scheduling laboratory sessions, workshops, tutorials, and practical classes to support teaching and learning activities; (ii) Ensure the availability, proper setup, and functionality of laboratory equipment and material for teaching, research, and consultancy activities; (iii) Provision of technical support and demonstrations during laboratory sessions, workshops, research activities, and practical classes, including assisting students and staff with equipment operation and troubleshooting; (iv) Assessing student laboratory reports and provide technical feedback under the guidance of lecturers or departmental leadership; (ix) Contribution to research, innovation, knowledge creation, intellectual property development, and commercialization initiatives within the School and Department;
Technical Operations and Inventory Management: (i) Establishment, maintenance and updating of comprehensive inventory and information management systems for technical equipment, materials, and laboratory resources; (ii) Coordinating the maintenance, calibration, repair and replacement of laboratory and workshop equipment to ensure optimal performance, safety, and compliance with standards; (iii) Ensuring the organization, safety and effective management of laboratories, workshops, and technical facilities in compliance with institutional and statutory regulations.
Facility Management: (i) Implementing and monitoring health, safety, risk management, and compliance procedures, including maintaining risk registers, conducting inspections, and addressing audit findings; (ii) Working with faculty and researchers to understand their technical needs and deliver tailored solutions (iii) Building and maintaining effective relationships with students, staff, researchers, industry partners, and other stakeholders while ensuring efficient resolution of technical and customer service issues; (iv) Supporting technical staff recruitment, mentoring, training, performance management, and professional development in accordance with University policies and labour regulations; (v) Assisting in budget preparation, resource allocation, expenditure monitoring, and financial management of technical and laboratory operations; (vi) Any other duties as assigned by the Departmental Chairperson/ Head of School.
Qualification Requirements: Candidates should have: (i) A Masters’ Degree in Physics or a related field. (ii) A Bachelors’ Degree in Physics and related disciplines.
Work Experience: (i)A minimum of six (6) years’ experience, three (3) of which should have been at a supervisory role (e.g. Senior Technician or equivalent); (ii) Extensive experience in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management within an academic or research environment.
Professional registration: Applicants should be eligible for registration as a professional by an appropriate and recognised professional body.
Other Requirements: (i) Strong leadership and management skills, with demonstrated ability to lead a team and manage complex projects. (ii) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. (iii) Knowledge of relevant safety regulations and standards, with a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. (vi) Proven ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a dynamic environment.
How to Apply: Applicants are to address the stated qualifications in their application letters and provide any other information to assist the University determine their suitability for the position. They should also quote the vacancy number of the post applied for, provide current CVs (including telephone, and e-mail address), certified copies of educational certificates and transcripts and three work-related references. Complete documentation should be sent to: The Senior Professional: HR Business Partnering, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Private Bag UB 00704, Gaborone-Botswana; Telephone: (267) 355-5826; E-mail: fnasvacancies@ub.ac.bw
Hand-delivered applications should be submitted to: Office No. 135 at Block 233 (233/135).
Applicants should inform their referees to: (i) Quote the Vacancy Number and position applied for and (ii) submit their references directly to the above address, before the stipulated closing date.
Remuneration: The University offers competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Please note that applications with incomplete information shall not be acknowledged.
NB: Online applications should be submitted as one merged PDF document per position. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
Closing Date: 10 August 2026