Vacant Post – Radio Frequency Technician (RFI)

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Skilled / Middle Management
Work Location: Carnarvon, Northern Cape
Closing Date: 19 December 2023

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 commercialization endeavours.

This position will be responsible for the execution of day to day site installation & maintenance (scheduled and corrective) RFI equipment. Additionally, this position will execute or assist with all RFI measuring activities including RFI testing, report writing and updating of various RFI databases.

Key Responsibilities:
* Ensuring that the RFI design and installation instructions are correctly communicated and executed
* Reviewing site installed RFI equipment/services is accurately done
* Performing scheduled and corrective maintenance on all site RFI equipment
* Performing and assisting with RFI testing on-site as and when required
* Ensuring that RFI test equipment and assets are properly cleaned and stored
* Assisting with RFI radiated, screening, vehicle and equipment testing as and when required
* Monitoring, reporting and following up on RFI detections
* All other related duties to this role.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:
* National Diploma: Engineering (Electrical/Electronic).
* Certification in RF and EMC (Advantageous).
* Valid driver’s License Code EB

Experience:
* 3-years’ working experience within a radio frequency/radar or EMC environment.
* Hands on experience in using spectrum analyzers, RFI test equipment and antenna systems

Knowledge:
* Radio & radar understanding and hands on exposure.
* Monitoring and control of radio frequency and electronic systems.
* RFI mitigations.
* Execution of lab and on site RFI / EMC testing and evaluation of results.
* Electrical systems installation (Advantageous).
* Perform tasks using plans and diagrams.
* Understand and analyse RF measurement data from various commercial and well as in-house developed monitoring systems
* Basic knowledge on Health & Safety.

Additional Notes:
* Good communications skills (written and verbally)
* Work independently as well as part of a team
* Ability to work under tight schedules.
* Must be able to work in remote locations from time to time as well as outside normal working hours.
* Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to work in a physically demanding atmosphere including, but not limited to carry, raise and climb a ladder; carry, lift and handle heavy equipment.
* Self-disciplined, motivated and organised.
* Attention to detail.
* Adhere to all Health and Safety requirements.

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: 19 December 2023

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