About the position
Postion Summary:
SARAO is seeking a Structural Engineer who will be responsible for the structural design and analysis of reinforced concrete structures, beams, and steel frameworks. The incumbent must possess technical proficiency and extensive experience in structural engineering projects, including the design and development of reinforced structures, steel buildings, and related infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct feasibility studies by gathering project information from sponsors and stakeholders, compiling technical reports, and making recommendations
- Apply advanced structural engineering principles to create effective design solutions, including reinforced concrete and steel structures
- Create detailed design drawings and specifications using industry-standard software and tools
- Lead or contribute to the preparation of RFQs and tenders for various projects
- Provide expert technical inputs during project execution, design reviews, and approval of technical submissions
- Oversee construction supervision, including quality control, site inspections, and documentation of as-built drawings
- Coordinate small teams in delivering structural engineering project components
- Develop project schedules, budgets, BOQs, and technical specifications in line with PMO requirements
- Participate in project meetings and align deliverables with broader project goals
- Ensure operational targets are met through ongoing support, issue resolution, and proactive monitoring
- Maintain records and documentation in line with quality systems and audit requirements
Minimum Qualification:
- Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7
Minimum Experience:
- BTech in Structural or Civil Engineering with 6+ yearsAnd:Active ECSA registration as Pr
- Eng or Pr
- Tech
- Eng (Compulsory)Valid SA Driver’s Licence (Code B)
Experience:
- Minimum of 6 years of experience in structural design of reinforced concrete and steel frameworksAt least 2–3 years of site-based supervision experience on structural projects as a resident engineer or similar roleExperience in:Project management and reportingPlanning, design reviews, feasibility studiesCompilation of procurement documentation (tenders, specifications, drawings, BOQs)Contract administration and stakeholder liaisonTechnical proposal writing and document preparationOperational support and site troubleshooting
Knowledge:
- Proficiency in structural design software: Prokon, Tekla, Robot, or equivalentDeep knowledge of reinforced concrete design, steel structures, and integration into broader engineering systemsFamiliarity with national and international design codes (e
- g
- , SANS 1200, SANS 0400, and SANS structural codes)Experience with JBCC, NEC4, GCC and FIDIC contract administrationProficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, Excel, Adobe, Google Drive, and similar toolsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and technical report writing skillsKnowledge of ISO9001 Quality Systems and government procurement processes
Additional Notes:
Must be proactive, detail-oriented, and demonstrate leadership and mentorship [URL Removed] communication skills—verbal and written—with an ability to convey technical information [URL Removed] of thriving independently and within multidisciplinary [URL Removed] and ability to travel to project sites as [URL Removed] to high standards of professionalism, ethics, and service [URL Removed] 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.
