Vacant Position – Manager: Communication & Science Engagement

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Skilled / Middle Management (Pro Qualified & Expert Specialist & Mid-Management)
Work Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date: 13 November 2026

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 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: The Communication and Science Engagement Manager will work as part of the SARAO Communications and Stakeholder Relations Division under the guidance of the Manager: Communication and Stakeholder Relations. The position is responsible for leading and delivering all communication (internal, external, digital, media), marketing (campaigns, advertorials, sponsorships), events, tours, science engagement (outreaches, training, lectures, citizen science) and brand management for SARAO across sites, offices and projects. The role ensures that SARAO􀂷s scientific, engineering and community-related work in South Africa is communicated accurately, strategically and consistently to internal and external audiences.

The position strengthens SARAO􀂷s reputation, visibility and social license to operate by building trusted stakeholder relationships, managing media engagement, driving internal alignment across dispersed teams, and implementing impactful science engagement initiatives that support national development priorities. The role also safeguards the SARAO brand, ensures coherent messaging across partners, and contributes to a high-performing communication function that supports SARAO􀂷s mission to deliver world-leading radio astronomy from South Africa.

This is a hands-on, multifaceted role offering broad exposure across the communications spectrum. It’s ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and is passionate about science, technology, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:
* Work with internal and external stakeholders to create impactful, accurate and engaging multi-platform content to promote the SKA project and its activities in South Africa, both domestically and internationally.
* Working very closely with members of the SARAO Communication, Science Engagement and Stakeholder Relations teams, build and maintain relationships with local stakeholders, including local communities, industry and businesses, to support strategic communications and outreach activities.
* Develop and implement communication strategies that effectively position SARAO for South African and international audiences, shaping and driving the narrative around its science, technology, impact and societal relevance.
* Manage SARAO external communication and media engagement, including proactive storytelling, media relations, digital content, campaigns, and high-visibility public engagement.
* Build and maintain trusted relationships with key stakeholders and partners
* Drive internal communication across SARAO􀂷s South African teams, ensuring clear, timely information flow, strong organisational culture, and alignment with SARAO values and People & Culture initiatives.
* Plan and deliver high-quality SARAO events and outreach activities, including media visits, VIP tours, conferences, education programmes and public events.
* Work collaboratively and cooperatively with local and national partner organisations to ensure aligned communications, messaging and shared resources about the SKA in South Africa.
* Liaise with the media to identify and develop compelling stories, and manage interviews and requests for information.
* Identify emerging issues, develop issues briefs and statements, prepare spokespeople for interviews and other media engagement, and other activities as required to protect and enhance SARAO􀂷s reputation and brand.
* Contribute to or lead event management and outreach activities, including media and VIP visits, industry events, conferences, education programs and public events.
* Build and maintain team-focused relationships, share knowledge and work together in pursuit of the development and promotion of best practice communication management.
* Adhere to the spirit and practice of NRF and SARAO Values, Code of Conduct, Health, Safety and Environment procedures and policy, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
* Other duties as may be reasonably instructed instructed by the line manager.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:
* Honour’s degree (NQF 8) in Science Communication, Communication, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
* Valid Drivers License

Experience:
* Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Marketing, Communications and Events, of which at least 5 years must be in a management role.
* Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
* Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Science Engagement and Outreach, of which at least 2 years must be in a management role.
* Demonstrated experience in developing and executing events and exhibitions.
* Managing a cross-functional team
* Demonstrated experience managing multiple priorities with competing deadlines, showing initiative, self-motivation and flexibility.
* Experience in providing direction and mentoring others.
* Experience in developing standard operating procedures, performance plans and implementation plans.

Knowledge:
Proficiency in digital communications, including social media, CMS platforms, and multimedia tools
Understanding of the national system of innovation
Proficiency in development of STEM related communication resources
Experience with video production, graphic design or other multimedia.

Additional Notes:
* Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
* Understanding of stakeholder management and protocols
* Able to work with and through others, with the ability to plan and manage the work of others.
* Well-developed planning and organisation skills, including project management expertise.
* Able to manage a team.
* Able to communicate and influence media and stakeholders
* Able to translate technical concepts and advice to others.
* Good analytical skills, with the ability to know the way around a wide range of procedures and use theoretical first principles to solve problems. When faced with a problem, or planning change, explores broadly tapping into best practice, demographics, and the broader context.
* Willing and able to travel extensively within South Africa, and to some extent internationally.

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: 13 November 2026

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