Machine Operator at South African Astronomical Observatory

About the position

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 semi-arid Northern Cape. Distributed
between the two sites, SAAO employs roughly 130 people, many of them scientists and engineers, and is contracted to operate the 10-m
Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), 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 human capacity development for
South Africa.

Position Summary

Manufacture Components for Scientific Instruments

Key Responsibilities:

• To assist with the manufacture of telescope and instrument components, and other engineering parts
• Ensure machines are set to run parts to be manufactured.
• Ensure part materials are loaded on to CNC machines.
• Inspect parts using measuring equipment
• The upkeep of workshop and related machine equipment

Key Requirements:

Qualification:

• NTC 3 Mechanical
• 2 years' experience in an engineering environment

Experience:

General machining experience

Knowledge:

• Ability to use the following measuring equipment:
  Vernier
  Micrometer
  Dial gauges.
• Basic computer literacy
• Must be able to work efficiently in a team
• Good communication in English.

Additional Notes:

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS:

CAD basic experience
CAM experience , preferably EdgeCAM
CNC programming, G programming language

Information:

The website [URL Removed] provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:

Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to [URL Removed] and apply online. 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.

Closing Date: 22 May 2026

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF
Employment Equity Plan.
The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only

Desired Skills:

• Basic computer literacy
• Good communication in English

About The Employer:

The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with, science.
The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.