Web Developer & Social Media Specialist

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape

Job Level: Skilled / Middle Management

Type of employment: Long Term Contract

Period of Contract: 5 years

Closing date: 07 January 2022

About the position:

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.

SARAO is looking to for an experienced and passionate Web Developer & Social Media Specialist to develop and maintain customised websites for the organisation, manage SARAO’s social media platforms, and contribute towards the development of SARAO’s online communication strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute towards the development and implementation of SARAO’s online communication strategy
• Development and management of SARAO’s online communication and social media platforms, ensuring up-to-date content, optimal functionality and user experience on all new and existing platforms. This includes design, coding, quality assurance, documentation, update and implementation of all software, including security and patches, as may be appropriate and relevant
• Manage SARAO’s social media platforms, ensuring up-to-date content at all times
• Implement appropriate monitoring and evaluation of user experience on relevant online communication platforms
• Work together with relevant internal stakeholders to profile SARAO’s scientific and technical achievements in an accessible and understandable manner

Key Requirements:
Qualification:

• BSc (or BSc equivalent) Computer Science, IT or related field

Experience:

• 5 years’ documented experience as a web developer with at least 2 years at a middle or intermediate level
• Web design and development
• Social media management
• Experience in the following shall be seen as advantageous:
  • Science communications
  • Working with scientific visual data

Knowledge:

• A knowledge and understanding of Customer Relationship Management
• Current online communications strategy

Additional Notes:
Key competencies required:

• Strong experience with popular web development tools and applications such as Jquery, Git, JavaScript, WordPress, HTML5, CSS3, crossbrowser compatibility, Web User Interface Design (UI), Security Principles
• WEBPACK to develop mobile responsive websites and applications
• Experience with the principles of good coding
• Strong collaboration and problem solving skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Social media and content specialist

Personal Attributes

• Keen eye for detail and the affinity to work in a dynamic environment
• Self-starter who demonstrates strong initiative sense of urgency, and intellectual curiosity
• Ability to think critically, to evaluate, and to solve complex technical details
• Stay current with technology, industry trends, and shares knowledge with the team
• Must be able to work with other functional experts
• Ability to prioritise competing demands and effectively manage multiple tasks

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.

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.