Telescope Operator at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
The incumbent will be part of a team of Telescope Operators responsible for ensuring the KAT-7, MeerKAT telescopes and other instruments to work optimally. Identifying and resolving issues, scheduling and tracking activities to minimise interruptions to scientific operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure observations are completed and scientific data quality is maintainedMinimize down-time and ensure that systems are returned to observations Provide appropriate instructions to the telescope systemsMonitor the systems constantly and respond to faultsPlanning and coordinating activities while providing appropriate instructions and informationFollow procedures and collect information to fix and report faultsRespond to issues/faults timeouslyRecord and capture details of the system, and provide data to stakeholdersUtilise Radio Astronomy to promote public outreach and educationWorking shifts (including nights), standby, weekends and public holidaysTravel and work in remote telescope sites

Minimum Qualification:

• Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7

Minimum Experience:

• 3-3 years

• B-Tech/BEng in Electrical/Electronics/Computer Engineering ORBSc in Physics/Astronomy/Applied Mathematics/Mathematics/Computer ScienceThree (3) years working experience in a technical/scientific environmentValid driver's license

Experience:

• Experience in fault-finding and applying corrective actionsRoot cause analysis and identifying problemsDevelopments of technical and procedure documentationExperience in planning and progressing engineering/technical/scientific work activities

Knowledge:

• Linux operating systemPython software programmingElectronics Working with Google Suite

Additional Notes:
Understanding of software development using Python, C or C++ in Linux environmentProcess control and optimization thinkingAbility to work within a team environmentAbility to work independently and without supervisionAbility to pay attention to detailDemonstrated ability to work and cope under pressure Proven communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to communicate with non-technical or scientific stakeholders in outreach programmesThe 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.