Deputy Director: Earth Observation

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation is looking for a Deputy Director: Earth Observation to support the design, development and implementation of policies and programmes that will meet the Earth Observations Data user’s requirements in the implementation of the South African Earth Observations Strategy.

1. Earth Observations Strategy development, review and implementation:

• Engage user communities to develop user requirements specifications on Earth Observation
• Communicate the benefits of using Earth Observations to relevant stakeholders
• Support the review of Earth Observations (EO) strategy and other EO matters
• Facilitate the implementation of the strategy through EO related stakeholders (e.g. SANSA, SAEON)

2. Support the development and implementation of Earth Observations applications:

• Facilitate the call for proposal based on user engagements and selection of the proposals for implementation.
• Promote the development of applications based on identified user requirements specifications that stakeholders should provide
• Monitor progress made on the implementation through bi-annual progress reports
• Facilitate the transfer of funds as per contract signed

3. Provide strategic support and oversight for DSI entities in SST:

• Provide technical inputs on the APP, Ops plan, strategic plan
• Analyse and make inputs on the quarterly, annual and projects reports

4. Engagement with strategic partners

• Engage internationally, regionally and locally through bilateral and multilateral arrangements
• Capacitate the region on the beneficial use of Earth Observations information
• Collaborate with other countries on initiatives identified, especially in the SADC region

5. Creating the requisite human capital and technology incubators, industry development and promoting the public benefits of space science and technology:

• Facilitate the development of Human Capital Development and Space Awareness Initiatives
• Development and implementation of HCD plan to capacitate the Space programme put in place
• Outreach programme to excite an array of stakeholders about SS&T

Qualifications

• Three years degree in Natural Sciences or Engineering.
• Honours or post graduate in Remote Sensing or Geospatial Sciences will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years working experience with regard to Earth Observations.

Skills

• Problem Solving Skills
• Facilitation Skills
• Presentation and negotiation skills
• Report Writing Skills
• Excellent communication and Interpersonal Skills Listening

Knowledge and Training

• Understanding of the Space Science and Technology Landscape
• Good grasp of SA Earth Observations Dynamics and role players
• Knowledge of National System of Innovation

Salary

Market-related

If interested and meet minimum requirements, kindly send your CV to:

Name: Mxolisi Makhasana

Email: ***email_hidden***