Electronics Technician at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
Part of the Electronics team responsible for the development of novel electronics components, modules, subsystems and systems to further the goals of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide inputs in order to develop and execute SARAO’s hardware and firmware strategy to maintain a leading position in electronics technology development for the Radio Astronomy community and beyond
• Implementation of Hardware and Firmware tasks
• To ensure high quality of all projects and products of the Electronics Functional Group when it comes to hardware and firmware
• Integration and Testing of Electronics at PCB level, Subsystem level and System Levels
• Creating and following ATP’s and compilation of high-quality ATR reports
• Assist with Lab tasks to ensure high standards
• Procurement of electronic components following the SCM processes
• Mentor the less experienced Electronic Group team membersAccountable for the quality and professionalism of deliverablesExercise discretion to make technical and operational decisions consistent with organizational policies

Minimum Qualification:

• Diploma / Advanced Certificate / NQF 6

Minimum Experience:

• 3-4 years

• National Diploma (Electrical/Electronic NQF Level 6)Valid Driver’s licence (Advantageous)3 years’ experience in electronics hardware and firmware design

Experience:

• Hardware EngineeringFirmware EngineeringSoftware EngineeringSupply Chain Management in PFMA environment
• Configuration management

Knowledge:

• ElectronicsRadio Astronomy InstrumentationHardware Design (analog and digital)PCB DesignFirmware DesignSoftware DesignTest and Verification

Additional Notes:
Detailed technical knowledge and experience in an R&D [URL Removed] to conceptualize and/or provide inputs to novel technical solutions to unique [URL Removed] excellent interpersonal [URL Removed] independently as well as in a team [URL Removed] in remote locations when [URL Removed] communication in English (written and verbal).Commercialisation experienceThe NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal.
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.

Desired Skills:

• Skilled in applied field of position
• Knowledge to be relevant
• Responsible in performing duties

About The Employer:

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.