Junior Engineer: RFI
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: Junior Engineer: RFI
Business Unit: South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Position Summary
This position is responsible for assisting in developing RFI monitoring equipment and software, conducting RFI measurements both in the field and in RFI test facilities, and supporting RFI policies and procedures under the guidance of an RFI engineer.
Key Responsibilities
Assist in the development, operation and maintenance of measurement, monitoring systems and equipment
Assist in the analysis of RFI measurement, monitoring and telescope data
Write and review technical RFI reports
Participate in RFI measurement
Support graduates-in-training
Additional Notes
Analytical problem-solving skills
Hands-on technical skills in order to install and commission products in the field.
Basic scripting ability for configuring and analysis of digital systems
Work independently as well as in a team environment.
Work in remote locations when required.
Qualification
B.Eng or B.Sc (NQF 8) in Electrical, Electronics or Computer Engineering with + 2 years relevant experience.
Valid driver's license.
Experience
RF and/or EMC measurements
Processing or analyzing data in a programming language.
Designing electronic circuits
Working with RF electronics
Programming in a programming language
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Understanding of EMC/RFI measurement principles
Good understanding of Radio Frequency (RF)
Good understanding of signal propagation
Radio frequency measurements and data analysis
Broad understanding of Radio frequency hardware, including antennas, low noise amplifiers, switches, mixers and other radio frequency components
Broad understanding of analysis of measurement data based on sound engineering principles.
Closing Date: Thursday, 05 Nov 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.
