Deputy Director - Radio Astronomy Operations (SKA-Mid)

About the position

A senior leadership opportunity exists for an accomplished professional to support the operations and commissioning of one of the world's most advanced radio telescopes: SKA-Mid. This role is ideal for a candidate with deep domain expertise in radio astronomy, physics, or radio-frequency engineering, and proven leadership of multidisciplinary technical teams in complex scientific environments.

As Deputy Director, you will work closely with the SKA-Mid Telescope Director to oversee the telescope's operational readiness, lead core technical teams, and represent the telescope's interests in national and international collaborations. You will also manage the local SKA-Mid Collaboration Team, contributing to construction support, science operations, engineering systems, and computing infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities (amongst others)

• Support the Telescope Director in planning and executing SKA-Mid operations, including commissioning and science readiness.
• Manage and coordinate Engineering Operations, Computing & Software, and Science Operations teams.
• Provide strategic oversight and line management of the SKA-Mid Collaboration Team working under the Bilateral Collaboration Agreement.
• Contribute to telescope-wide decision-making and represent the telescope in global operational forums.
• Serve as a member of the Executive team, contributing to institutional leadership and strategic direction.

Minimum Requirements
Key Requirements:
Qualification(s) required: Master's in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or a related field OR a Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field, with a Bachelor's degree or higher in a technical field related to telescope operations.

Desirable Qualification: PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or a related field.

Experience Required:

• A minimum of 10 years relevant experience in technical operations management, with a significant focus on strategic partnerships or joint ventures.
• At least 5 years in a senior management role, preferably with experience in managing cross-organizational or collaborative projects.

Desirable Experience:

• Experience in the operations of large-scale scientific facilities
• Experience in the transition from construction to operations

This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in a globally significant scientific project and help shape the future of radio astronomy operations on the African continent.

NB: Kindly note that only candidates with the required qualifications and experience listed will be considered.

Desired Skills:

• SKA-Mid
• Radio Astronomy Operations
• Telescope Commissioning
• RF Engineering
• Scientific Infrastructure Management
• Large-scale Science Facilities
• Executive Leadership

Desired Work Experience:

• More than 10 years

Desired Qualification Level:

• Masters