Vacant Position - Junior Electronics/RF Technician NRF/SARAO

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 South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) implements South Africa's strategic investments in radio astronomy, including the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, which covers a broad range of engineering and scientific activities. SARAO is a National Facility of the National Research Foundation, and incorporates radio astronomy and space geodesy instruments and programmes such as the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) in Gauteng, the Africa Radio Astronomy Programme across nine African countries, as well as associated human capital development and commercialisation endeavours.

The purpose of this role is focused on troubleshooting a variety of electronics, control and radio frequency systems on the antennas and within the labs by utilising typical lab equipment such as multimeters, soldering stations, oscilloscopes and power supplies.

• TECHNICAL WORK AND HOUSEKEEPING: Develop specification with users and engineering team to meet requirements
• Fault finding and repairs to electronic systems
• General upgrades to antennas and electronic systems
• Building of new systems
• Evaluation of equipment
• Control and monitoring systems
• Use appropriate equipment as needed
• Use suitable drawing/design packages
• Use relevant tests to verify ability to meet requirements for the equipment
• Participates in electronic designs and takes responsibility for assigned project deliverables
• Train students on typical electronic equipment, components and lab work
• Troubleshoot and repair electronic subsystems
• Monitor sensor data on the antenna systems
• Maintain lab in a neat and orderly manner

• Maintain, upgrade and repair electronic systems related to the antennas such as: SCADA, fibre, RF cabling, RF switches, radio astronomy receiver systems, electronic equipment and other systems as required
• Maintain electronic and radio frequency systems including antenna systems

• Design documentation, Assembly Drawing and parts list
• Procurement of spares and equipment
• Recording development, fixes, changes, etc.
• Document systems, maintain records, logbooks and status boards

Qualification: National Diploma Electrical/Electronic Engineering (NQF Level 6)

• Experience: 0-1 year's experience in electronics hardware and software and control
• Knowledge: Electronic components; PCB Design; Programming experience (including microcontrollers); Microprocessor hardware and software; Electronic fault finding; Technical knowledge and experience in a research and development environment; Health and safety basics; Good knowledge of antennas and related infrastructure (vacuum, helium, cryogenic systems)

• Computer skills
• Communicate effectively in English (both written and verbally)
• Must be fit and able to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Problem solving skills
• Attention to detail

The website provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to the online portal and apply. 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: 17 March 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.