About the position
Postion Summary:
Apply hands-on expertise in the field of optical fibre to assist the delivery of the Radio astronomy telescopes such as MeerKAT Extension and SKA-1 Mid Dish fibre network (DFN), Optical Fibre Networks and related activities within the scope of South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO).
Key Responsibilities:
- Take part Optical fibre installations such as Dish Fibre Network (DFN) installations at telescope sites where neededTake part in fibre optic troubleshooting, and maintaining fibre optic systems at telescope sites or as directed, to ensure that they are working properly
- This involves but not limited to Conducting regular inspections of fibre optic network systems with the aim of locating and repairing any defects detected during the inspections
- Documentation, installation, testing, and maintenance of fibre optic systems at telescope sitesPerform Acceptance tests activities for each optical fibre installation as per the given acceptance test procedure, as well as Capturing the as-built data for each built Telescope fibre network
- Assist in the management and maintenance of installed fibre optics networks such as DFN at telescope sitesUnderstanding the installation instructions to ensure that all optical fibre network installations are done accurately and to the highest quality and standardAssisting team where there is a breakdown to ensure fibre links are restored within the shortest time possibleTaking 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:
- 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 NZDSFGood knowledge in Optical Fibre testing/troubleshooting equipment use: OLS, OTDR, PM, Max Tester
Knowledge:
- Assembling different types of patch panels and joints
- Understanding and identifying different types of fibre optic connectors
- Perform OTDR testsEvaluate OTDR tracesPerform Optical Power loss testingPerform tasks using plans and diagramsFusion splicing of SMF, MMF and NZDSF working with both loose tube and tight buffer fibre cablesTest report writing, Interpretation and presentation of test resultsConstruction and maintenance of fibre optic links
- Interpreting optical test resultsInterpretation of fibre optic splicing diagrams and documentsUnderstand and identify the different types of optical connectors
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 techniqueWorking at heights 5 – 10 metresPatch Panel preparationCable preparationFusion SplicingOptical Fibre testingDisplay 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 as well as outside normal working hoursWillingness 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.
