Fibre Technician at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
Apply hands-on expertise in the field of optical fibre to contribute in the delivery of Radio astronomy telescopes such as MeerKAT Extension (MK+), SKA-1 Mid Dish fibre network (DFN) and related optical fibre network activities within the scope of SARAO, at cape town office and at telescope sites as to when required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Following the dish fibre network (DFN) procurement plan while complying to SARAO SCM procurement procedures to purchase required optical fibre items for fibre optic installation at telescope sites and within the scope of SARAOUnderstanding the installation instructions to ensure that all optical fibre network installations are done accurately and to the highest quality and standardInstalling/building-up as well as troubleshooting optical fibre network links within the scope of SARAO (At cape town office and at telescope sites as to when required)Ensuring proper documentation of installed fibre optic links i
• e
• the As-built data is accurately captured and documentationAssisting team where there is a breakdown to ensure fibre links are restored within the shortest time possibleCarrying out market research to timely procure new fibre assets and repair damaged assets as well as all relevant installation partlistsTaking responsibility for Optical fibre network Assets, ensuring they are properly and safely stored and are always within calibration periods
• Supporting facilitating optical fibre network installation schedules and resources within the scope of SARAO whenever required

Minimum Qualification:

• Diploma / Advanced Certificate / NQF 6

Minimum Experience:

• 5-6 years

• National Diploma in Engineering (preferably electrical/electronic Engineering) (NQF6) FOA Certified Fibre Optics Technician or equivalentValid driver’s license

Experience:

• 5+ years Fibre Optic splicing experience (preference given to those with additional optical fibre practice at a responsible level)
• Experience in using Fibre Optic testing/troubleshooting equipment; OTDR, Max Tester as well as Optical link loss test toolsExperience in Cable preparation, working with loose tube and tight buffer fibre optic cablesExperience in preparation and assembly of different Patch PanelsFibre optic fusion splicing of SMF, MMF and NZDSFOptical Fibre testing/troubleshooting equipment: OLS, OTDR, PM, Max Tester

Knowledge:

• Assembling different types of patch panels and joints
• Understanding and identifying different types of fibre optic connectors
• Fusion splicing of SMF, MMF and NZDSF working with both loose tube and tight buffer fibre cablesTest report writing, Interpretation and presentation of test resultsPerform tasks using plans and diagrams including Interpretation of fibre optic splice diagrams/documentsConstruction, maintenance and troubleshooting optical fibre networks of fibre optic links

Additional Notes:
Good working knowledge of hand and power tools used in this position with proficiency in fibre cable termination with connectors. Well versed in fusion splicing machine techniqueDisplay excellent interpersonal [URL Removed] awarenessWorking at heights 5 – 10 metres above the groundResponsible and trustworthyWork independently as well as in a team [URL Removed] to work under tight schedulesWillingness to work in remote locations from time to time as well as outside normal working hoursWilling to learnDisplay analytical and problem-solving skillsSelf-disciplined, motivated and organizedThe 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.