SALT Graduate Software Engineer
National Research Foundation
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the National Facility for Optical and Infrared Astronomy of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Its headquarters are in Cape Town, while its telescopes are at Sutherland in the semi-arid Northern Cape. Distributed between the two sites, SAAO employs roughly 130 people, many of them scientists and engineers, and is contracted to operate the 10-m Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), on behalf of the international SALT Foundation. SAAO is the premier optical/infrared research facility on the African continent, with global research and outreach collaborations and contributing human capacity development for South Africa.
Position: SALT Graduate Software Engineer
Business Unit: South Africa Astronomical Observatory (SAAO)
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Position Summary
The SAAO, in partnership with SALT, invites applications from suitably qualified individuals for the position of Graduate Engineer Software Engineering/ Diagnostics and Control Systems to join our Software Engineering Team based in Cape Town. The successful candidate will support the team with the development, maintenance, and operational readiness of telescope and instrumentation software. The position is within a dynamic division, comprised of approximately three dozen staff, including astronomers, electrical, electronic, optical and mechanical engineers, technicians, and software developers.
Key Responsibilities
Assist with software development and maintenance in accordance with the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Support fault finding, debugging, and resolution of software issues under supervision
Participate in software testing and execution of Software Acceptance Test Procedures (ATPs)
Assist with integration of software with control systems, instrumentation, and electronic subsystems
Support preparation of telescope systems for night-time operations
Follow software configuration management and version control procedures
Work closely with engineers and multidisciplinary teams
Additional Notes
Strong willingness to learn and develop engineering competence
Good communication and teamwork skills
Attention to detail and sense of responsibility
Problem-solving mindset and adaptability
Demonstrated interest in instrumentation, automation, scientific facilities, or astronomy will be considered desirable
Qualification
BEng/BSc (Eng) in Computer/Electrical/Electronic/ Mechatronics, NQF level 8
Experience
0-2 years post-qualification experience
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Basic understanding of software engineering principles, software version control and SDLC
Exposure to control systems, PLCs, embedded controllers, or RTOS environments
Exposure to LabVIEW or National Instruments platforms
Basic familiarity with Linux operating systems
Closing Date: Friday, 16 Oct 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.
