Radio Frequency (RF) Systems Engineer at South African National Space Agency (SANSA)

Description

SANSA has a mandate to drive the promotion and use of space and cooperation in space-related activities. To achieve this mandate, the Agency fosters research in space science and technology, advances space engineering programmes, and supports the creation of an environment conducive to industrial development in space technologies within the framework of national government policy. More information about the organization can be found at  http://www.sansa.org.za

SANSA is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining employees who are passionate about the success of the national space industry. Personal growth, which is oneof our values, encourages employees to invest time in education and training through bursaries and training courses offered to them.

SANSA thrives on our employees’ creativity, competencies, and expertise, and on their ingenuity to succeed in a high-performing environment. If you aspire to the SANSA values of Service, Teamwork, Respect, Integrity, Personal Growth and Excellence, and living these in a fast-paced and innovative environment, then SANSA could be the place for you. 

The following permanent employment opportunity exists at the SANSA Hartbeeshoek site situated in Hartebeesthoek, Gauteng to be filled by an individual with the relevant experience, skills, drive, and qualifications who puts the interests of the nation first, has a commercial mindset, thinks as our customers, knowledge-driven and people-centric.

SANSA is embarking on the establishment of a new ground station at Matjiesfontein in the Western Cape where it will be establishing new satellite TT&C and data download antennas for use in both the Near Earth environment and missions in cislunar space for both local and international agencies and clients. The ground station could also be expanded to also cater for Deep Space missions. We require an RF Systems Engineer who will work with the Project Manager and Ground Station Systems Engineer to realize this new ground station. The position reports to the Hartebeeshoek site as, Project Manager.

The RF Systems Engineer will be guided by the Ground Station Systems Engineer to help ensure that all requirements for the new ground station are met and that the project is successfully delivered to the clients, both internal and external. This position will also contribute to RF system engineering design, upgrade, and support on Satellite Ground Segment Systems and related sub-systems and systems engineering on Space Operations and customer-owned equipment.  The incumbent will also be expected to interface with local and International clients where needed on technical issues.

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Provide engineering expertise on RF, electronic, and electrical systems. Knowledge of control systems, mechanics, power generation, networks, software, and computing or data storage will be beneficial. Knowledge of transmission devices and advice on the placement of antennae for optimal performance.
• Operate RF test equipment and knowledge of RF circuits as per specification.
• Upgrade/modernize legacy systems and migrate them to the current platforms used.
• Perform acceptance testing on all ground segment systems and sub-systems.
• Conduct tests to determine the strength of generating and/or receiving signals.
• Conduct frequency interference testing.
• Program RF equipment such as digital transmitters and receivers to optimize performance.
• Support the development of prototypes and technology demonstrators.
• Manage small technical projects including budget and resources.
• Work with the Project Management Office on technical aspects of a project.
• Prepare project documentation for the Project Office and clients.
• Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to interns and employees.

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have:

• A minimum of a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electronics / Electronic Communications.
• Specialist expertise in RF and antennae engineering will be advantageous.
• At least 6 years experience in a telecommunications or RF Engineering environment preferable.
• At least two (2) years of experience working with satellite ground stations or radio astronomical installations, RF systems, and relevant software.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills, planning, and organizing skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work under pressure.
• Certification to a system engineering body is preferable.
• Candidates must be prepared to travel as the project will require regular travel and stayovers in Matjiesfontein. The project will take approximately two and a half years.
• A valid driver’s license.