FACULTY OF NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
VACANCY NO: IRC 3409
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 in the Department of Physics.
The Senior Technician is responsible for preparing equipment and materials for laboratories/ workshops, ensuring the equipment and materials within the faculty are in good order and provide teaching support as required for all teaching and learning environments.
Duties: The successful candidate will be expected to:
Teaching and Learning Support: (i) Plan, coordinate, schedule and implement field and laboratory practicals; (ii) Provide necessary support to students and researchers in laboratory practicals, field work, tutorials and research projects as directed by a course lecturer; (iii) Assist with assessment/grading of student reports for laboratory/field work/tutorials; (iv) Contribute to ongoing research activities to support knowledge creation, intellectual property, and commercialization in line with area of expertise;
Equipment Maintenance and Technical Support: (i) Ensure that equipment is functional and optimally utilized; (ii) Ensure adherence to SHE protocols and guidelines; (iii) Provide technical advice to students and staff and timely reporting of equipment faults; (iv) Recommend decommissioning of obsolete equipment and its replacement; (v) Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks;
Inventory Tracking: (i) Maintain accurate and up to date inventory (equipment and stock) records; (ii) Monitor supplies and educational materials and initiate the procurement process in respective areas. (iii) Facilitate the establishment and maintenance of a comprehensive inventory of technical equipment, tools and supplies.
General: (i) Contribute to the development of and implementation of the unit and department strategy, policies, and procedures; (ii) Participate in internal and external audits in line with University policies; (iii) respond to customer/stakeholder queries and inquiries related to area of expertise; (iv) adhere to performance targets as reflected in the performance review and appraisal; (v) identify learning opportunities and follow up on own training and development in line with departmental needs; (vi) undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with their role.
Qualification Requirements: (i) A Bachelor’s degree in Physics or related discipline is required. (ii) A Master’s degree in the relevant area will be an added advantage.
Experience: (i) A minimum of four (4) years’ experience as Technician (or equivalent) in Physics laboratories. (ii) Higher education experience will be an added advantage.
Professional registration: Applicants should be eligible for registration as a professional by an appropriate and recognised professional body.
Other Requirements:
(i) Strong experience in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management, preferably in an academic or research environment. (ii)Strong technical skills and knowledge of maintenance procedures, inventory management and operation of scientific laboratory equipment. (iii) Knowledgeable in curriculum requirements to support students and lecturers; ensure accuracy in assessments and grading. (vi) Ensure accuracy in assessment methods and grading. (vii) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. (viii) Commitment to safety and adherence to relevant regulations and standards. (xi) Knowledge and experience in the operation of scientific laboratory equipment will be an added advantage.
Remuneration: The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to apply: Letters of application are to address the stated qualifications and provide any other information to assist the University to determine your suitability for the position. Quote the vacancy number of the post applied for. Provide a full and up-to-date CV (including telephone and e-mail), certified true copies of educational certificates and three work-related references.
Applicants should send complete documentation to: The Senior Professional: HR Business Partnering, Faculty of Natural and Applied Science, Private Bag UB 00704, Gaborone. Botswana. Tel: (267) 3552969/2527; Fax (267) 3185097; e-mail fosvacancies@ub.ac.bw
Hand-delivered applications should be submitted to: Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences Office No. 221/236 at Block 233.
Applicants should inform their referees to (i) Quote the vacancy number and position applied for and (ii) submit their references directly to the address above, before the stipulated closing date.
NB: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Closing Date: 10 August 2026