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/

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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 or required for senior roles. Additional certifications in HVAC, boiler operations, or energy management are advantageous given Namibia's industrial standards.

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 refrigeration, compressed air, steam systems, and water treatment to ensure uninterrupted production. You will conduct preventive maintenance planning, troubleshoot equipment failures, and manage contractor relationships for specialized repairs. Energy efficiency monitoring and compliance with Namibian environmental regulations also form a significant part of the role.

How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ for engineering roles in Namibia compared to other countries?

Namibian employers typically value practical problem-solving skills and hands-on experience due to limited local technical support resources. Hierarchical respect is important, but engineers are expected to take initiative and work independently in remote or understaffed conditions. Punctuality and reliability are highly regarded, as production downtime can be costly in Namibia's smaller industrial market.

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

Engineers typically advance from junior engineer to senior engineer, then to maintenance manager or plant manager roles over 8-15 years. Specialization in energy management or automation can lead to consulting opportunities or regional roles within multinational companies operating in Southern Africa. Some transition into technical sales or establish private contracting firms serving Namibia's growing manufacturing and mining sectors.

What benefits are commonly offered to full-time engineering professionals in Namibia?

Standard packages typically include medical aid contributions, pension or provident fund arrangements, and annual leave of 20-25 days as prescribed by Namibian labour law. Many industrial employers provide housing allowances or subsidized accommodation, particularly in smaller towns where skilled workers are scarce. Performance bonuses and study assistance for further qualifications are increasingly common retention tools.

What should I include in my application to stand out to Namibian employers like Namibia Dairies?

Highlight hands-on experience with industrial utilities, refrigeration systems, or food manufacturing environments, as these are directly relevant to dairy operations. Include your ECN registration status or progress, and emphasize any experience working with limited resources or in remote locations common in Namibia. Strong references from previous Namibian employers or practical attachments during your studies carry significant weight with local hiring managers.