Vacant Position – Electronics Engineer

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Skilled / Middle Management
Work Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date: 09 September 2025

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) (www.sarao.ac.za) 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 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.

The purpose of the role is the design, development, deployment and operational support of Electronics systems with particular emphasis on applications in Radio Astronomy Instrumentation.

Key Responsibilities:
* Design and develop electronic systems, components and products based on functional and performance requirements.
* Create circuit schematics and PCB layouts using CAD tools (e.g. Altium)
* Write and Test Firmware and Software for electronic systems, subsystems and components
* Build and test prototypes to verify design functionality and performance.
* Select and source electronic components suitable for design requirements, environmental constraints and budget.
* Troubleshoot and debug hardware and firmware issues during development and production stages.
* Work closely with software, mechanical, and systems engineers to ensure seamless integration of electronic subsystems.
* Document designs and development processes, including specifications, test procedures, and reports.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:
* BTech Electrical/Electronic Engineering +6 years relevant experience
* BENG Electrical/Electronics + 4 years relevant experience

Experience:
* Working in an electronics development environment, from concept through to production.
* Working with firmware and hardware integration.
* Experience in using electronic test equipment and hands-on experience with PCB design, testing, and troubleshooting
* Familiarity with embedded systems and microcontroller programming is advantageous.

Knowledge:
* Electronics
* Analog and Digital Circuit Design
* PCB Design
* Firmware Design
* Test and Verification
* System Engineering
* Simulation Tools
* Programming Languages (eg Python)

Additional Notes:
* Excellent communication both verbal and written, in English
* Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
* Efficiency in a high-pressure environment
* Proactive
* Capable of dealing with uncertain environments and reducing uncertainty
* Proficient in Root Cause Analysis & Problem-solving
* Strong decision-making
* Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in quality assessments.
* Ability to collaborate and work effectively within cross-functional teams.
* Willingness to work outside normal hours
* No constraints on ability to travel within South Africa and Internationally
* Interacting with multi-disciplinary teams

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.

Closing Date: 09 September 2025

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.
The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only