Electrical Engineer

Introduction

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 commercialization endeavours.

Position: Electrical Engineer Business Unit: South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory Location: Cape Town, Western Cape

Position Details

Position Summary: The Electrical Engineer will work in collaboration with the Functional Manager (electrical) and program/project managers to ensure smooth operation of the Meerkat and Hartebeeshoek telescopes, successful delivery and acceptance of Meerkat Extension, AVN and infrastructure projects within schedule, budget and quality standards. The scope is to also support the Senior Electrical Engineers in their execution and implementation of some of their projects.

Key Responsibilities: Assist in developing requirements, investigations, information and other data for technical designs and trade off studies Direct and manage a project to completion within performance management baselines (scope, schedule, cost, resources and quality) Ensure contractors designs and installations comply with the organisation and statutory requirements. Ensure site power operations complies with the organisation’s technical and quality requirements Ensure the quality of power received from Eskom meets the Electricity Supply Agreement conditions in place Contribute towards the graduate training program and mentor junior employees and site team

Additional Notes: Good communicator – verbal and written Highly organized Self-driven and goal oriented Manage multiple projects simultaneously Able to work under pressure Input to work package status reporting; Exposure to project management processes Requirements

Minimum Qualification: Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7

Minimum Experience: 1-6 years B.Tech in Electrical Engineering plus 6+ years relevant experience. B.Eng / M Tech in Electrical Engineering plus 4+ years relevant experience M.Eng in Electrical Engineering plus 3+ years relevant experience Ph.D in Electrical Engineering plus 1+ year relevant experience

Experience: Previous experience on multi-disciplinary projects (Conceptual Stage to Construction Close-out); Interpret design requirements pertaining to electrical systems. Assist project management with maintenance costing of the electrical system. Conduct electrical system assessments and studies on existing infrastructure for expansion and/or refurbishments.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Design and operation of power generation and distribution systems Project management processes Working knowledge of built environment contracts Knowledge of the industry’s standards (SANS, Eskom, etc) and regulations. How to Apply

Closing Date: Wednesday, 23 Sep 2026

The 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. Contact Information

Recruitment Support: peopleandculture@nrf.ac.za