Scientist: Observations and Assurance at The South African Weather Service (SAWS)

Key performance areas: 

• Play a leading role in monitoring of data availability of surface observation network; 
• Ensure that the data is available on daily basis on the Climate database; 
• Liaise with internal stakeholders on matters related to data availability; 
• Participate in activities and projects related to data quality assurance of surface and upper air observation networks; 
• Actively participate in programs, projects or activities related to climate observations, nationally, regional and internationally; 
• Assist the climate services units with queries related to data, products and services that may be of assistance to them; 
• Participate in scientific research; 
• Develop and/or compile report and establish new methods and processes that will improve the Observations and Assurances unit’s service delivery to clients; 
• Give advice in developing or maintaining the strategic direction of climate observations and assurance unit in line with international standards, practices and developments; 
• Collaboration with national and international institutions relevant to climate observations and assurance, in line with the strategic direction of the SAWS; 
• Represent the SAWS where appropriate and serve on national or international scientific panels/committees or expert groups in an expert capacity as and when needed; 
• Participate in the support of relevant operational meteorological systems; 
• Carry out all administrative functions attached to the post, including the mentoring of meteorological technicians and young scientists; 
• Participate in all activities related to maintaining the Total Quality Management (TQM); 
• Continue self-development and keep abreast with current and new developments in the field of Observations. 

Requirements:

• An appropriate 4-year degree in Atmospheric Sciences (or equivalent qualification), a master's in Atmospheric Sciences (or equivalent qualification), would be an added advantage. 
• At least 2 years extensive experience in data quality and assurance and/or in a scientific work environment. 
• Knowledge of SQL, statistics, GIS (preferably ArcGIS (Pro) 10) and basic report-writing (Crystal Reports, Access or other) will be an added advantage and strongly recommended. 
• A proven track record as a scientist would be advantageous e.g. Publishing of papers, serving on scientific forum and/or participation at conferences 
• A Weather Observers certificate would also be considered as an added advantage