PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

The role is responsible for managing the entire Utilities department, including mechanical and electrical/instrumentation functions, while providing technical input on utilities projects within the Engineering department. It also oversees the Facilities department and Engineering Store, manages the upgrade and maintenance of technical equipment to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure compliance with industry standards. The role further involves asset management, balancing maintenance, servicing, costs, and operational performance to support production efficiency and meet consumer demands.

Job Summary

Employer: NAMIBIA DAIRIES (PTY) LTD
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Windhoek, Namibia
Category: Engineering
Closing Date: 2026-10-14

Key Responsibilities

Perform routine and planned electrical maintenance on plant, machinery, and infrastructure.
Lead and direct the Utilities department. Utilities (Water, electricity, compressed air, boilers and ammonia plant.)
Develop long and short -term maintenance strategies and initiatives to enhance equipment reliability, minimize downtime, and improve overall operational efficiency. Including managing the engineering store
Set departmental key performance indicators for the team and track daily and/or accordance with the annual performance reviews.
Provide technical expertise and guidance on maintenance, leveraging innovative solutions to address challenges and optimizing maintenance operations.
Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules for all machinery and equipment, adhering to best practices and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to minimize unplanned downtime and reduce the frequency of machine breakdowns.
Develop efficient procedures for responding to machine breakdowns and minimizing repair time.
Develop standardized maintenance procedures to ensure consistency and reliability.
Prioritize maintenance activities based on asset criticality, production requirements, and resource availability.
Drive the implementation of corrective actions to address disruptions or non-conformity or issues identified during maintenance activities and/or audits.
Continuously evaluate and refine preventative maintenance strategies to maximize equipment uptime and efficiency.
Compile, monitor and control cost center to ensure spending is within budget parameters.
Develop and implement technical cost-saving solutions by establishing reliable and low-maintenance systems to manage operational costs effectively.
Manage technical claims and provide expert advice on processing claims to mitigate costs effectively.
Negotiate contracts and agreements to ensure favorable terms and conditions for the business.
Lead initiatives to drive continuous improvement and technical excellence within the utilities and facilities department.
Implement, TPM practices, lean methodologies, best practices, and innovative technologies to streamline maintenance processes, reduce waste and increase efficiency.
Monitor maintenance metrics and key performance indicators to track the effectiveness of maintenance programs and identify areas for improvement.
Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization, efficiency improvement, and cost reduction within the maintenance function.
Oversee the management and maintenance of lands, buildings, and facilities owned
Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards related to building codes, safety, and environmental regulations.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external service providers to address maintenance needs, repairs, and renovation.
Implement cost-effective solutions for building and facility maintenance, including preventive maintenance schedules and budget management.
Ensure that all maintenance and repair activities adhere to HACCP, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), and Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) standards, policies, procedures, and regulations.
Advise and provide input on and report all safety risks and incidents occurring within the maintenance operations.
Develop and implement correct safety procedures to be followed during maintenance activities to mitigate risks and prevent accidents.

Requirements

A Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical)
4 years’ experience in a FMCG environment.
1-2 years should be in a Managerial Capacity in a FMCG environment.
Ammonia and Boiler Certification is an added advantage
Registration with the Engineering Council is an added advantage
Knowledge of SAP

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: careers.ol.na

About the Company

Namibia Dairies operates as a prominent producer and supplier of dairy products within Namibia. The company is recognised for its diverse product range, thoughtfully crafted to cater to the daily needs of consumers across the nation. Their extensive portfolio includes both fresh and long-life milk, alongside fresh cream. Additionally, Namibia Dairies provides traditional fermented milk products and a selection of fruit juices, reinforcing its commitment to quality and variety in the Namibian market.

Everyday goodness

Website: https://www.namibiadairies.com/

View all jobs at this company →

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Facilities & Utilities Engineer role in Namibia?

Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering from a recognized institution such as NUST or UNAM. Professional registration with the Engineering Council of Namibia (ECN) is highly preferred, and additional certifications in HVAC, water treatment, or energy management can strengthen your application.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Facilities & Utilities Engineer at a manufacturing company like Namibia Dairies?

Daily tasks include overseeing plant utilities such as boilers, refrigeration, compressed air, and water treatment systems to ensure continuous production. You will conduct preventive maintenance planning, troubleshoot equipment failures, manage contractor relationships, and ensure compliance with Namibian health, safety, and environmental regulations.

How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Namibian manufacturing compared to other countries?

Namibian employers value punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and strong interpersonal relationships within diverse teams. You will likely work closely with Afrikaans and English-speaking colleagues, and demonstrating flexibility during peak production periods is expected. Building trust through consistent performance is often prioritized over rapid individual advancement.

What career progression opportunities exist for Facilities & Utilities Engineers in Namibia's manufacturing sector?

With experience, you can advance to Senior Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Plant Manager positions within large manufacturers. Some engineers transition into specialized consulting roles or move into related sectors such as mining, brewing, or food processing. Continuous professional development through ECN and industry associations like EAN improves promotion prospects.

What benefits are typically included in engineering positions with major Namibian employers?

Standard packages usually include medical aid contributions, pension or provident fund arrangements, and annual leave of 15–25 days depending on tenure. Many manufacturing employers also provide housing allowances or subsidized accommodation in remote locations, along with performance bonuses tied to production targets.

What should I include in my application, and what do Namibian employers prioritize when hiring engineers?

Submit a concise CV highlighting relevant technical experience, ECN registration status, and specific systems you have managed. Employers prioritize hands-on maintenance experience, knowledge of Namibian labor and safety laws, and proven problem-solving abilities. Include contactable references from previous supervisors and tailor your cover letter to demonstrate understanding of the local manufacturing environment.