South Africa: Maintenance Manager Botswana posted by Cedar Wood Recruitment

Maintenance Manager – Luxury Safari Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana R42,200-R48,200 DOE Key Responsibilities • Oversee daily preventative and corrective maintenance across camp facilities, including guest tents/suites, main areas, staff village, kitchens, and reserve infrastructure. • Manage off-grid systems with expertise: solar power generation and battery storage, generators (diesel backup), water purification, borehole pumps, sewage treatment (septic/enviro-loo systems), and reticulation. • Ensure reliable power and water supply during high flood seasons and peak guest occupancy, minimising downtime and environmental impact. • Lead, train, and supervise a small team of maintenance assistants, artisans, and general hands; roster duties and foster a culture of safety and pride in workmanship. • Conduct regular inspections, maintain accurate logs, and implement scheduled maintenance programmes for vehicles, boats, machinery, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and building fabric. • Manage inventory of spares, tools, and consumables; source parts efficiently (often via Maun supply runs or air transfer) while controlling costs. • Coordinate emergency repairs and crisis response (e.g., storm damage, system failures) with minimal disruption to guests. • Uphold strict health, safety, and environmental standards; ensure compliance with Botswana tourism regulations and company ESG (environmental, social, governance) policies. • Collaborate closely with camp management on refurbishments, new builds, and sustainability initiatives (e.g., reducing carbon footprint, waste management). • Maintain aesthetic excellence – repairs must blend seamlessly with the luxury bush aesthetic and not disturb wildlife or guests. Requirements & Qualifications • Minimum 5–8 years’ hands-on experience in maintenance management, ideally in remote luxury safari lodges, islands, or off-grid resorts in Africa (previous Okavango Delta or Botswana experience highly advantageous). • Strong technical expertise in electrical (solar & LV systems), mechanical, plumbing, generators, pumps, and basic building/carpentry. Relevant trade qualifications (e.g., electrician, fitter, or multi-skilled artisan) essential. • Proven leadership skills with experience supervising teams in isolated environments. • Valid driver’s licence (Code 08/EB); boat handling/skipper qualification a bonus. • Physically fit and able to work in extreme heat, humidity, and wet conditions; comfortable living in the bush with wildlife proximity. • Excellent problem-solving, organisational, and communication skills; fluent English (additional Setswana or other local languages advantageous). • Passion for conservation and low-impact tourism; understanding of eco-friendly systems and wilderness ethics. • Clean criminal record and ability to pass medical fitness for remote work. Personal Attributes • Self-motivated, resourceful, and calm under pressure. • Meticulous attention to detail with a luxury mindset – “invisible” repairs that enhance the guest magic. • Team player who respects cultural diversity and builds strong relationships in a close-knit camp community. • Flexible and adaptable to the unpredictable rhythm of Delta life. What We Offer • Competitive salary (negotiable based on experience) plus service charge/tips. • Full board and accommodation in the Delta. • Medical aid, pension/provident fund contributions, and annual leave. • Opportunities for professional growth within a leading conservation-focused safari operator. • The privilege of living and working in one of the world’s last great wilderness areas, surrounded by extraordinary wildlife.