Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Management
Work Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date: 31 December 2024
The National Research Foundation (NRF) (www.nrf.ac.za) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) (www.sarao.ac.za) 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 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.
The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) (www.skao.int) is a next-generation global radio-astronomy facility that will revolutionise our understanding of the Universe and the laws of fundamental physics. It is one observatory with two telescopes – SKA-Mid in South Africa and SKA-Low in Western Australia. South Africa is a co-host member of the SKAO, an intergovernmental organisation headquartered at Jodrell Bank (near Manchester in the United Kingdom) responsible for SKAO construction and operations globally.
Position Overview:
The Senior Data Analyst will be responsible for the development of operator procedures and documentation, and for the mentoring and training of the data analyst/operators under their supervision.
Key Responsibilities: Manage performance of data analyst/operator teamPlay a leading role in the designing and documenting of operating procedures for SKAOConduct, monitor and calibrate astronomical observations and use appropriate computing resources towards successful operation of the telescope arrayUndertake quality assurance of dataSupport communication between engineering and technical staff and scientific stakeholders.Key Requirements: Qualification: MSc in physics, astronomy or related discipline, coupled with 4 years experience in a technical or scientific environment.ORBSc (Hons) in physics, astronomy or related discipline, coupled with 5 years experience in a technical or scientific environment.Experience: Experience in leading a teamPrinciples of radio astronomy and interferometric calibrationRadio astronomy reduction softwareControl and monitoring systemsScientific computing in PythonAdditional Notes: Must be able to work on a 24/7 rotational basis, including weekends and public holidaysDesirable: Aptitude to control and operate a scientific research facility including familiarity with monitoring, controlling, and schedulingDemonstrated ability to work and cope under pressure in time-sensitive environments with multiple prioritiesFamiliarity with SAFE or Agile code development practicesOrganisational Values:
The SKA-Mid Senior Data Analyst will be expected to demonstrate the SARAO and SKAO's values, and to work actively to instil those behaviours in all SKA-Mid staff in South Africa.
SKAO's values are:
1. Diversity and Inclusion
2. Excellence
3. Collaboration
4. Creativity and Innovation
5. Sustainability
SARAO's values are:
1. Passion for Excellence
2. World-class service
3. People-centered
4. Respect
5. Integrity and Ethics
6. Accountability
Both SARAO and SKAO value and respect difference and are committed to building an inclusive culture by creating an environment where you can balance a successful career with your commitments and interests outside of work.
Applications:
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online. 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: 31 December 2024
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.
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