Head of Maintenance at Kontak Recruitment

• The Head of Maintenance will take full ownership of the reserve's technical heartbeat. From solar power systems and borehole management to guest lodges, staff facilities, and a diverse fleet of vehicles, this role keeps everything running seamlessly across a vast and remote landscape. The successful candidate will lead a skilled technical team, champion sustainable operations, and serve as the go-to authority for all engineering and infrastructure matters on the reserve.

What's in it for you

• A leadership role with genuine purpose at the intersection of engineering excellence and wildlife conservation.
• Live-in position on one of Africa's most breathtaking and biodiverse private reserves.
• Competitive remuneration package, negotiable within the senior market range.
• An opportunity to work with cutting-edge off-grid technologies including solar PV, water purification, and green building systems.
• A culture that values innovation, hands-on problem-solving, and long-term environmental thinking.

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years' experience in a senior engineering or maintenance role, within hospitality or other relevant industries.
• Demonstrable knowledge of sustainable and off-grid technologies including solar energy, water filtration, and waste management systems.
• Experience with facilities management systems and project planning tools.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Willingness and ability to live on-site in a remote, conservation-driven environment on a permanent basis.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to develop and motivate a technical team.
• Proven track record in budget management, procurement, and asset oversight.
• Proactive, solutions-focused mindset with the ability to respond to emergencies and adapt to evolving operational demands.
• Understanding of occupational health and safety regulations and compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead proactive, preventative, and reactive maintenance across all buildings, guest accommodations, staff quarters, and communal facilities.
• Oversee civil works and infrastructure upgrades aligned with eco-sensitive construction principles.
• Manage all power systems including solar PV, generators, and battery banks.
• Supervise water supply infrastructure including boreholes, purification systems, and storage.
• Oversee waste management systems including greywater recycling and sewage infrastructure.
• Maintain HVAC, refrigeration, electrical, plumbing, and IT infrastructure across the reserve.
• Lead, develop, and schedule the technical maintenance team including plumbers, electricians, and handymen.
• Ensure fleet and equipment including 4x4 vehicles, tractors, game viewers, and machinery are regularly serviced and operationally sound.
• Prepare and manage the annual maintenance budget in coordination with senior property operations leadership.
• Oversee procurement of tools, materials, and services in line with sustainability and conservation goals.
• Collaborate with conservation staff to reduce the ecological footprint of all operational activities.
• Enforce health and safety compliance across all maintenance activities, protecting guests, staff, and wildlife.
• Monitor system performance and maintain green building practices throughout the reserve.