Position : Electrician – Liwonde National Park
STATUS : Three-year contract, renewal subject to satisfactory performance and organizational requirements.
African Parks (AP) is a not-for-profit organization that secures a mandate to conserve through Public Private Partnerships with Governments and communities for the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas in Africa, and here in Malawi, AP has secured this mandate for the management of Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, Mangochi Forest Reserve and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.
An opportunity has arisen for the post of Electrician tenable at Liwonde National Park in Liwonde
The Electrician will directly report to the Technical Manager but also work closely with other departments as required. Part of the Field Operations Department the Electrician will oversee all electrical work, assist the Technical Manager with administrative and technical tasks, including procurement and planning for construction and maintenance projects within the Liwonde National Park
Job Summary
- Employer: African Parks (AP)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Liwonde, Malawi
- Category: Operations
- Closing Date: 2026-09-27
Key Responsibilities
- Install, inspect, test, maintain and repair electrical systems, equipment and associated infrastructure across Liwonde National Park.
- Inspect, test and repair energisers, earthing systems, solar power components and electrical connections supporting the park’s electrified perimeter fence, and work with relevant teams to restore faults promptly.
- Maintain electrical installations serving offices, workshops, staff housing, tourism and visitor facilities, ranger posts, water-pumping systems and other operational sites.
- Diagnose electrical faults, respond promptly to power outages and emergencies, and carry out safe, effective repairs to minimise disruption to essential park operations.
- Operate and maintain generators, solar or other backup power systems where assigned, including routine checks and monitoring of fuel, batteries and related components.
- Conduct preventive maintenance and routine inspections, and maintain accurate service, test, fault and repair records.
- Support the Technical Manager with annual and weekly work planning, budgeting, procurement and stock control for electrical, construction and maintenance materials.
- Prepare, review and interpret electrical drawings, site plans and building construction plans.
- Assist with the design and planning of electrical layouts for new buildings, upgrades and other infrastructure projects.
- Ensure that all work complies with applicable Malawian electrical requirements, occupational health and safety standards, environmental safeguards and African Parks’ Infrastructure and Logistics Standard Operating Procedures.
- Apply safe isolation, lockout and other risk-control procedures, and immediately report hazards, incidents and defects.
- Maintain an accurate inventory of electrical tools, equipment, spare parts and consumables, and safeguard assigned assets.
- Coordinate planned shutdowns and maintenance with conservation, law enforcement, tourism, community development and other park teams to protect staff, visitors, wildlife and neighbouring communities.
- Supervise contractors or assistants when assigned, verify the quality of completed work, and provide staff with guidance on electrical safety and basic maintenance.
- Perform other reasonable duties related to the role as assigned by the Technical Manager
Requirements
- Diploma in electrical installation, Electrical engineering or related field from recognised institutions.
- A recognised electrical trade qualification or certification from an accredited institution.
- A valid electrical installation permit or licence issued by the relevant Malawian authority and appropriate to the scope of work.
- At least three years’ relevant post-qualification experience as an electrician, preferably in facilities, construction, utilities, conservation or another remote operational environment.
- Demonstrated experience in electrical installation, inspection, testing, fault-finding, preventive maintenance and repairs.
- Practical experience with low-voltage distribution, generators, solar or other backup power systems, water pumps and electric-fence systems will be a strong advantage.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, site plans and construction drawings.
- Knowledgeable in renewable energy, solar installation and pump installations.
- Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office; knowledge of AutoCAD will be an added advantage.
- Strong planning, organisational and record-keeping skills, with the ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
- A strong commitment to occupational health and safety, environmental responsibility, quality workmanship and attention to detail.
- A valid Malawi driving licence, Class B or C1.
- Physical ability and willingness to travel within the park, work outdoors in demanding conditions and respond to emergencies outside normal working hours when required.
How to Apply
About the Company
African Parks is a non-governmental organization (NGO) focused on biodiversity conservation through protected area management, established in 2000 and headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was founded as the African Parks Management and Finance Company, a private company, then underwent structural changes to become an NGO called African Parks Foundation, and later renamed African Parks Network. The organization manages national parks and protected areas throughout Africa, in collaboration with governments and surrounding communities. African Parks manages 24 protected areas in 13 countries as of October 2025, and employs more than 5000 staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become an electrician in Malawi?
Most employers require a Malawi Craft Certificate in Electrical Installation or equivalent from a recognized institution like MITC or TEVETA-accredited colleges. A valid wireman's license from the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) or Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) is often essential. Practical apprenticeship experience of 2-4 years is highly valued by operations-focused employers.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an electrician at a conservation or park operations employer?
Daily tasks include installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems for camps, offices, and field stations, often in remote locations with solar or generator power. You will troubleshoot faults, conduct safety inspections, and maintain accurate work logs. Emergency call-outs for power failures are common, requiring flexibility and reliable transport.
How does the work culture differ for electricians employed on contract in Malawian operations roles?
Contract roles typically demand high reliability and self-sufficiency, as you may work far from urban centers with limited supervision. Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and clear communication with managers are expected in Malawian workplace culture. Demonstrating initiative and problem-solving without constant direction strengthens your standing for contract renewal.
What career progression paths are realistic for electricians working in Malawi's conservation and operations sector?
With experience, you can advance to senior electrician, maintenance supervisor, or facilities manager roles overseeing multiple sites. Specializing in renewable energy systems like solar-hybrid installations opens doors given Malawi's rural electrification challenges. Some progress to regional roles with international NGOs or start licensed electrical contracting businesses.
What benefits should I expect or negotiate in a contract electrician position with an operations employer in Malawi?
Standard benefits often include annual leave days as per Malawi Employment Act, medical aid or clinic access, and employer contributions to a pension scheme like NICO or Old Mutual. For remote postings, negotiate housing or subsistence allowances, transport provision, and tool allowances. Always confirm contract duration and renewal terms before signing.
How do I apply for electrician roles in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through company websites, job portals like MyJobo, or by submitting certified copies of certificates and references directly to HR departments. Employers prioritize proven experience, valid MERA/ESCOM licensing, and reliability demonstrated through previous employer references. Highlight any remote-area work experience and your ability to work with limited resources.