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7 days ago
The Lilongwe Water Board is a Statutory Corporation established in 1947 and re-constituted in 1995 under the Water Works Act (Cap 72). It is responsible for the provision of water supply and sanitation services to the City of Lilongwe and other surrounding areas designated as its supply area.
The Board is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates of Malawi origin to fill the following position that exist within the Board
Job Summary
- Employer: Lilongwe Water Board
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- Undertaking routine and planned maintenance works in compliance with standards
- Installing new connections and geo referencing
- Undertaking leak detection exercise within the area
- Marking frequently bursting pipes within the area using Geographical Information System (GIS) and arranging replacement of the same
- Reporting all open trenches and road sections for reinstatement after repair of faults
- Enforcing water board bye-laws
- Supervising and appraising staff under his/her care
- Participating in carrying out maintenance work on mains and supply pipes in emergencies and/or when the need arises
- Preparing reports
- Responding to queries on matters related to water supply aspects:
- Monitoring resource utilisation for maintenance works done in the area;
- Building the capacity of Water supply in the area at all levels
- Implementing meter replacement programs
- Demonstrating outstanding commitment to service delivery programs of the Board by personally identifying and reporting water bursts/leakages to customer care Division of which verifiable repair records shall be tendered to be used as one of the components for assessment during one’s performance appraisal time.
Requirements
- At least NTT grade 1 Plumbing Certificate or TEVETA Level 3 plus MSCE
How to Apply
Address: P.O Box 96,
About the Company
Lilongwe Water Board is a statutory corporation established under the Water Works Act, responsible for water supply and sanitation services in Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi. The board manages the abstraction, treatment, and distribution of potable water to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across the city and surrounding areas. It operates water treatment plants, maintains an extensive network of pipelines and reservoirs, and implements revenue collection systems to sustain its operations. Lilongwe Water Board also engages in water conservation education and infrastructure expansion projects to meet growing demand in one of Malawi's fastest-growing urban centers.
Providing safe water for life
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to apply for a Distribution and Maintenance Assistant (Plumber) role at Lilongwe Water Board?
You typically need a Malawi Craft Certificate in Plumbing or a Trade Test Grade I/II from a recognized institution like Malawi Polytechnic or community technical colleges. Some employers also accept a Diploma in Water Engineering with relevant plumbing experience. Having MSCE with strong passes in Mathematics and Physical Science is usually the minimum educational requirement.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Distribution and Maintenance Assistant (Plumber)?
You will install, repair, and maintain water distribution pipes, valves, and fittings in residential and commercial areas across Lilongwe. Daily tasks include responding to leak reports, conducting pipe inspections, and assisting with water meter installations. You may also work on excavation for pipe laying and collaborate with engineers on network expansion projects.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for plumbing roles in Malawian public utilities compared to private sector?
Public utilities like Lilongwe Water Board emphasize formal reporting structures, adherence to government procurement procedures, and union membership through MCTU-affiliated workers unions. Punctuality and proper documentation of maintenance records are strictly expected. Unlike private contractors, you will have more job security but may face bureaucratic delays in accessing tools and materials.
What career progression opportunities exist for a Distribution and Maintenance Assistant (Plumber) in Malawi's water sector?
With experience and additional qualifications, you can advance to Senior Artisan, Supervisor, or Water Distribution Officer positions. Pursuing a Higher Diploma or Bachelor's in Water Engineering opens pathways to technical officer or engineer roles. Some professionals transition to project management or establish private plumbing contracting businesses serving LWB and other utilities.
What benefits typically come with a Distribution and Maintenance Assistant position at a parastatal like Lilongwe Water Board?
Parastatal employers typically offer pension schemes through the National Pension Scheme Authority, medical aid coverage, and annual leave entitlements as prescribed by Malawi labour laws. You may also receive housing or housing allowances, transport subsidies, and uniform provisions. Specific benefit packages vary by employer and are usually detailed in collective bargaining agreements.
How should I prepare my application and what do Malawian water utilities look for in candidates?
Submit your application through the specified channels with certified copies of your certificates, MSCE results, and a detailed CV highlighting practical experience. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrated hands-on plumbing experience, even from informal apprenticeships or attachment programs. Include references from previous supervisors and emphasize your familiarity with Lilongwe's geography and water network challenges.