Electrician
National Research Foundation
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.
Position: Electrician
Business Unit: South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Position Summary
The electrician will provide support to the Electrical Functional Group, program / project managers operations and facilities management with respect to electrical related tasks including carrying out the design of electrical systems, including high current applications and ensuring 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 and with electrical related tasks.
Key Responsibilities
Assist in developing electrical designs, technical specifications, studies, procurement and layouts in CAD for new installations and plant modifications.
Coordinate with senior power engineers, site operations and other stakeholders to ensure electrical systems are integrated into project plans.
Document findings from tests and inspections and report any issues to the Senior Power Engineer, Project Managers and other stakeholders
Draft technical documents.
Plan, audit implement modifications and installation of electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures based on job specifications and local building and safety codes.
Assists Senior Power Engineer with projects site supervisor and quality assurance
Electrical support of installation & equipment
Electrical fault finding and repairs, diagnosing and solving problems and issues relating to electrical systems.
Asset management updating asset register, maintenance plans and quality control
Additional Notes
Have excellent problem solving
Have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Fault finding and trouble shooting.
Maintenance and repair of electrical systems.
Computer skills, including CAD packages and Microsoft Office
Minimum Qualification
Diploma / Advanced Certificate / NQF 6
Minimum Experience
3-3 years
National Diploma in Electrical Engineering AND
Qualified Electrician – Trade Test
Valid motor vehicle licence required, PDP possibly desirable
Wireman's licence
Experience
Minimum of 3 years’ related experience in Building Electrical infrastructure and distribution switchgear
Interpret design requirements pertaining to electrical systems
Conduct electrical system assessments and studies on existing infrastructure for expansion and/or refurbishments
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Electrical Panel Wiring
Implement and/or design control and monitoring functions (i.e. Building Management System to monitor power, cooling, fire, and general equipment status)
Health and Safety Regulations and related procedures
Carry out the design, installation and commissioning of the power Systems.
Assist with upgrades and expansion of the electrical systems
Maintenance of the existing infrastructure
Eskom ORHVS and OHS standards for all electrical installations as per the laws of South Africa
Codes of other Partner countries (where applicable)
Apply stringent safety rules for construction, maintenance, and operation
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.
