Electronics Technologist at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:

The SAAO is seeking an experienced Electronics Engineer/Technologist to carry out electronic support and design for astronomical instrumentation and systems, as well as fault finding and repair of existing systems. The position is within a dynamic team, comprised of approximately two dozen staff, including astronomers, electronics and mechanical engineers, technicians, and software developers. Responsibilities include design and development of systems and subsystems in conjunction with team members, performing design, construction, acceptance testing and commissioning, carrying out risk analyses, and fault-finding and support for equipment at the Sutherland site. The post is based in Cape Town in the Instrumentation Division, reporting to the Electronics Engineer. The incumbent will be required to spend approximately 1 week every 2 months performing standby duties in Sutherland in addition to the time needed to commission and support new and existing telescopes and instruments on an as needed basis.

Key Responsibilities:

DUTIES WILL INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Developing solutions and producing documented designs, manufacturing datapacks, assembly procedures, maintenance procedures, procurement lists and bills of material

• Facilitating and participating in design reviews

• Producing assembled, integrated, tested, and deployed instrumentation products for telescopes and enabling systems

• Fault finding, to determine fault location and resolution; producing fault reports detailing the problem, methods and resolution; recommendations and designs to address larger or recurring faults

• Knowledge sharing and mentorship

Minimum Qualification:

• BTech/Mtech Electronics

Minimum Experience:

• 7 years relevant electronics experience

Experience:

• Practical experience electronic hardware assembly, integration, and testing

• Practical experience in the design, construction, and installation of electrical control cabinets

• Electronic fault finding, diagnosis and analysis

• Electronic circuit and PCB CAD design and construction

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of mechanical and electronics manufacturing methods

• Computer literacy, including experience with working in a shell such as Bash or PoerShell

• Basic PLC programming experience

• Working knowledge of microcontroller programming and software developmentAdditional Notes:

DESIRABLE SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:

• Experience with Engineering system engineering, processes and application within complex, multi-disciplinary environments

• Configuration management

• Strong communication skills and the ability to author technical/project documentation

• Workshop skills (mechanical hand tools, power tools, soldering, wiring, connectorising, etc.)

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Self-starter, able to work independently with minimal supervision, with the confidence to make decisions independently

• Problem solving and curiosity

• Attention to detail

• Precision, neat handiwork

• Strong technical communication skills

The 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 Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the National Facility for Optical and Infrared Astronomy of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Its headquarters are in Cape Town, while its telescopes are at Sutherland in the Northern Cape. Distributed between the two sites, SAAO employs roughly 130 people, many of them scientists and engineers, and is contracted to operate SALT (the Southern African Large Telescope) on behalf of the international SALT Foundation. SAAO is the premier optical/infrared research facility on the African continent, with global research and outreach collaborations, and contributing to human capital development for South Africa.