SALT Astronomy Software Developer at South African Astronomical Observatory

About the position

The SALT Astronomy software team supports SALT Astronomy Operations to operate, maintain, and develop software for the scientific analysis of observations from the Southern African Large Telescope. We invite applications for the position of SALT Astronomy Software Developer.

Develop and maintenance of software for SALT Astronomy Operations

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop new software per specifications and compliant with standards and procedures
• Fault finding and bug fixes
• Routine software maintenance and upgrades of core astronomical SALT software
• Interact with the astronomy staff regarding software issues
• Unit, integration and end-to-end testing of software

Key Requirements:

Qualification:

• B.Eng. or BSc Degree in Computer Science, Natural Sciences or a related field

Experience:

• Experience in software development (preferably 2 years)
• Proficiency in Python
• Experience with web development

Knowledge:

• Must be able to work effectively within a team and on their own with minimal supervision
• Must have good problem-solving skills
• Must have good communication skills in English
• Knowledge of astronomy is an advantage

Additional Notes:

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS:

• Familiarity with some of the following:
• Web application development using a framework such as React / Angular or Flask / Django / FastAPI
• MySQL, PostgreSQL or another relational database management system
• Machine learning
• Java
• Continuous Integration / Continuous Delivery workflows
• Ability to write specifications and design documents

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: 28 February 2025

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:

• problem solving skills.
• Good communication in English
• Knolwledge of astronomy

Desired Work Experience:

• 1 to 2 years Software Development

Desired Qualification Level:

• Degree

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 about 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, contributing to SET human capital development for South Africa.