The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) is an internationally recognized centre for research and training, funded by the Wellcome Trust in collaboration with key partners including the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and the University of Liverpool. MLW is committed to promoting high-quality research led by Malawian and international scientists, aimed at improving the health of people in Malawi and beyond.

We are seeking four (4) motivated and enthusiastic Building Services Technician Interns to join our facilities Department based in Blantyre.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Building Services Engineer, the interns will support the delivery of efficient, cost-effective, and customer-focused facility maintenance services. The role involves hands-on technical work, maintenance support, and participation in construction and infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities or duties

• Assist in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other building systems
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical faults in facility systems (e.g., air handling units, water tanks, fire pumps)
• Support preparation of scopes of work, bills of quantities, and technical drawings
• Supervise contractors and provide progress reports on outsourced works
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation
• Support the maintenance help desk and ensure timely resolution of issues
• Contribute innovative ideas to improve efficiency, sustainability, and system performance
• Collaborate with technicians and stakeholders to ensure timely task completion

Qualifications or requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a related building services field

Experience needed

• No prior work experience required (ideal for recent graduates)

Any other provided details

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and technical problem-solving skills
• Good numerical and analytical ability
• Effective communication and report-writing skills
• Innovative and proactive mindset
• Ability to work both independently and within a team

Working Conditions

• Exposure to technical and potentially hazardous environments (e.g., electrical systems, confined spaces, heights)
• Ability to work under pressure and occasionally outside normal working hours

Contract Duration

• 6 months with possibility of extension

Duty station

• Blantyre

MLW is committed to safeguarding and protecting communities, research participants, and patients. Successful candidates will undergo safeguarding checks prior to appointment and periodically during employment.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

• Assist in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other building systems
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical faults in facility systems (e.g., air handling units, water tanks, fire pumps)
• Support preparation of scopes of work, bills of quantities, and technical drawings
• Supervise contractors and provide progress reports on outsourced works
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation
• Support the maintenance help desk and ensure timely resolution of issues
• Contribute innovative ideas to improve efficiency, sustainability, and system performance
• Collaborate with technicians and stakeholders to ensure timely task completion

• Strong troubleshooting and technical problem-solving skills
• Good numerical and analytical ability
• Effective communication and report-writing skills
• Innovative and proactive mindset
• Ability to work both independently and within a team

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a related building services field