Antenna Technician X 2

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities. The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) spearheads South Africa’s activities in the Square Kilometre Array Radio Telescope, commonly known as the SKA, in engineering, science and construction. SARAO is a National Facility managed by the National Research Foundation and incorporates radio astronomy and geodesy instruments and programmes such as the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) in Gauteng, the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry (AVN) programme in nine African countries as well as the associated human capital development and commercialisation endeavours.

Purpose:

Assist with the antenna maintenance, upgrades and manufacturing of custom parts used on the radio telescopes to ensure the radio telescopes are able to operate 24/7 by providing the technical support for the scientific productivity of the observatory. This will include but not limited to following and updating maintenance procedures, responding to emergency call outs, servicing of cryogenic and vacuum systems, developing and manufacturing mechanical system used at the observatory.

Key Responsibilities:

• Practical knowledge and experience of mechanical engineering manufacturing, installation, testing and maintenance of mechanical systems.
• Assume responsibility pertaining to adherence to manufacturing, installation, test and maintenance procedures and improvement of these procedures for practical execution.
• Provide specific practical support relating to mechanical manufacturing, installation testing, maintenance and upgrades on the antennas and other scientific instruments.
• Carry out maintenance on the antennas at the Hartebeesthoek site.
• Assist with manufacturing of components to specification and within tolerance based on drawings provided.
• Assist with maintenance planning schedules for the antennas at the Hartebeesthoek site.
• Inventory and procurement of spare parts.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:

• National Diploma or N6 in Mechanical Engineering with completed Fitter and Turner trade test
• 2 years’ experience in the similar role

Experience:

• Maintenance of mechanical systems.
• Crane usage
• Site safety
• In service troubleshooting and resolution
• Common and specialised machinery: lathes, milling machines, welding equipment, spray painting equipment, bending, drilling and cutting machines.
• Drawing interpretation/draughting

Knowledge:

• In depth knowledge of mechanical systems, vacuum systems, helium/cryogenic systems.
• Truck mounted crane operators certificate (Truck mounted crane Code C32)
• Working at heights certificate
• Truck driver’s license (Code EC old code 14 with PDP cat G)
• First aid level 1

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Additional Notes:

• Completed Fitter and Turner Trade Test its a key requirement

Information:
The website www.nrf.ac.za provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant’s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

About The Employer

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) spearheads South Africa’s activities in the Square Kilometre Array Radio Telescope, commonly known as the SKA, in engineering, science and construction. SARAO is a National Facility managed by the National Research Foundation and incorporates radio astronomy instruments and programmes such as the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) in Gauteng, the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry (AVN) programme in nine African countries, as well as the associated human capital development and commercialisation endeavours.

As a business unit of the NRF, SARAO is committed to employment equity and redress

Type of employment: Contract

SARAO reserves the right to amend and/or withdraw adverts at any time without notification.