Vacant Post – Telescope Operator

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Skilled / Middle Management
Work Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date: 03 January 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) 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.

The incumbent will be part of a team of Telescope Operators responsible for ensuring the KAT-7, MeerKAT telescopes and other instruments to work optimally. Identifying and resolving issues, scheduling and tracking activities to minimise interruptions to scientific operations.

Key Responsibilities:
* Ensure observations are completed and scientific data quality is maintained
* Minimize down-time and ensure that systems are returned to observations
* Provide appropriate instructions to the telescope systems
* Monitor the systems constantly and respond to faults
* Planning and coordinating activities while providing appropriate instructions and information
* Follow procedures and collect information to fix and report faults
* Respond to issues/faults timeously
* Record and capture details of the system, and provide data to stakeholders
* Utilise Radio Astronomy to promote public outreach and education
* Working shifts (including nights), standby, weekends and public holidays
* Travel and work in remote telescope sites

Key Requirements:
Qualification:
* B-Tech/BEng in Electrical/Electronics/Computer Engineering
OR
* BSc in Physics/Astronomy/Applied Mathematics/Mathematics/Computer Science
* Three (3) years working experience in a technical/scientific environment
* Valid driver’s license

Experience:
* Experience in fault-finding and applying corrective actions
* Root cause analysis and identifying problems
* Developments of technical and procedure documentation
* Experience in planning and progressing engineering/technical/scientific work activities

Knowledge:
* Linux operating system
* Python software programming
* Electronics
* Working with Google Suite

Additional Notes:
* Understanding of software development using Python, C or C++ in Linux environment
* Process control and optimization thinking
* Ability to work within a team environment
* Ability to work independently and without supervision
* Ability to pay attention to detail
* Demonstrated ability to work and cope under pressure
* Proven communication and interpersonal skills
* Ability to communicate with non-technical or scientific stakeholders in outreach programmes

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: 03 January 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