The Chief Technician will provide first-line Information Technology support, network administration, computer equipment maintenance and laboratory management to support academic and administrative operations across the Faculty.
Job Summary
- Employer: The National University of Science and Technology (NUST)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
- Category: Information Technology
- Salary: An attractive package including Medical Aid, Leave and Pension Benefits is offered. Details will be disclosed to shortlisted candidates.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-07
Key Responsibilities
- Providing first-line Information Technology support to staff members and students in the Faculty.
- Assisting in the smooth running of the Local Area Network by configuring network points, providing cabling solutions and troubleshooting problems.
- Maintaining inventory and updating software settings.
- Troubleshooting and diagnosing basic problems with computer equipment.
- Enforcing procedures for the use of computer laboratories and equipment, supplies, software and hardware.
- Repairing and maintaining computer equipment in the Faculty.
- Ensuring the security and safety of laboratory assets.
- Maintaining and controlling equipment and software in laboratories and offices within the Faculty.
Requirements
- A First Degree in Computer Science, Electronic/Information Technology or equivalent plus at least five (5) years post-qualification experience ; OR
- A Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Electronic/Information Technology or equivalent plus at least two (2) years post-qualification experience .
- Good technical troubleshooting, problem-solving and administrative skills.
- Good interpersonal communication and student skills.
Salary
An attractive package including Medical Aid, Leave and Pension Benefits is offered. Details will be disclosed to shortlisted candidates.
How to Apply
About the Company
The National University of Science and Technology (NUST) is a public research university located in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city. Established in 1991 through an Act of Parliament, NUST has grown to become one of Zimbabwe's leading institutions for science, technology, and engineering education. The university operates multiple faculties including Applied Sciences, Commerce, Communication and Information Science, Industrial Technology, and Medicine, serving thousands of students from across Zimbabwe and the Southern African region. NUST maintains strong industry partnerships and research collaborations that address national development challenges in areas such as renewable energy, information technology, and manufacturing innovation.
Think in Other Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Chief Technician role at a Zimbabwean university like NUST?
A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is usually required, with professional certifications such as Cisco CCNA, CompTIA A+, or Microsoft Azure being highly advantageous. NUST and similar institutions often prefer candidates with 5+ years of hands-on technical experience in network administration, systems support, or IT infrastructure management.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Technician in IT at a Zimbabwean university?
Daily tasks include overseeing network infrastructure, managing server rooms, troubleshooting hardware and software issues for staff and students, and supervising junior technical staff. You will also coordinate with vendors for equipment procurement and maintenance, while ensuring compliance with university IT policies and national cybersecurity guidelines.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Zimbabwean public universities compared to private sector IT roles?
Public universities like NUST emphasize hierarchical respect, formal communication channels, and adherence to government procurement and audit procedures which can slow decision-making. Unlike the private sector, there is greater job security but less flexibility in work hours, with strong emphasis on punctuality, proper documentation, and serving the academic calendar's demands.
What career progression opportunities exist for a Chief Technician in Zimbabwe's higher education IT sector?
With proven performance, you can advance to Systems Administrator, IT Manager, or Director of ICT positions within the university or migrate to other public institutions. Many technicians also leverage their experience to consult for government ministries, parastatals, or establish private IT firms serving the education sector.
What benefits are typically included in full-time IT positions at Zimbabwean public universities?
Standard packages include pension contributions through the Public Service Commission or university-specific schemes, medical aid coverage, and annual leave entitlements typically ranging from 21 to 30 days depending on grade. Additional benefits may include funeral assistance, staff development funding, and subsidized accommodation or transport allowances where available.
What should I emphasize in my application to stand out for a Chief Technician position at NUST or similar Zimbabwean institutions?
Highlight your practical experience with specific technologies used in academic environments such as learning management systems, campus-wide networks, and student information databases. Demonstrate familiarity with Zimbabwe's regulatory frameworks, include verifiable references from previous employers, and show evidence of continuous professional development through recent certifications or training.
