Careers at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About the job:

• The CSIR has an internship opportunity in the Biorefinery Industry Development Facility, within the Chemicals Cluster. The purpose of this internship is to provide graduates with an opportunity to gain practical work experience through research and development of competitive technologies and innovative products under the guidance of researchers and engineers within cross-functional teams. This position is based in Durban.

Key responsibilities:

Under supervision, the Intern will be required to:

• Analyse and interpret experimental results;
• Willingness to learn about bio-refinery for industrial applications;
• Compile technical reports and other project-related documents;
• Contribute to the planning and execution of experiments;
• Contribute to the development and implementation of standard operating procedures;
• Contribute and assist with laboratory inventory management;
• Take responsibility and custodianship of the laboratory;
• Prepare chemical reagents;
• Conduct routine general chemistry experiments.

Qualifications, skills, and experience:

• A National diploma in Chemistry.
• Must have a ‘hands-on’ approach with respect to equipment operation, and working in the laboratory;
• Must be Computer literate with MS Office Package;  
• Good communication skills (verbal and written);
• The following skills are required:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
  • Results-driven, self-motivated, and a team player;
  • Willingness to learn and work under pressure. 
• All international qualifications require an evaluation report/certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Closing date: 30 July 2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for Signal Analyst in the Radar and Electronic Warfare (REW) Impact Area within the Defence and Security Cluster. The purpose of this position is to conduct research and development of advanced signal processing algorithms, simulation software and model Radar, Passive Radar, Electronic Warfare and Communications systems. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.

Key responsibilities:

In the field of Radar and Electronic Warfare:

• Develop advanced signal processing algorithms;
• Analyse mathematical systems, their performance and induced system effects;
• Simulate and analyse operation-based systems;
• Simulate and undertake functional analysis of systems and subsystems;
• Implement algorithms on systems;
• Experiment with deployable systems to validate and improve algorithms;
• Experiment with operational systems to characterise and understand performance;
• Design and specify systems;
• Develop prototypes using high level language (such as Matlab, Julia, Python and/or C++)
• Liaise with and report to internal and external clients as well as stakeholders;
• Analyse system requirements, capabilities, and functionality.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in electronic/computer engineering with at least one year signal processing or system analysis experience;
• A Master’s degree will be an advantage;
• Post-graduate courses in the following will be an advantage:
  • Radar and/or Electronic Defence;
  • Signal processing;
  • Statistics;
  • Pattern recognition;
  • Machine learning; and
  • Sensor / data fusion.
• Experience in Matlab, Julia, Python and/or C++.
• Knowledge of the following will be an advantage: Antennas, Radio Frequency (RF) systems, Electromagnetic Theory and Propagation;
• Knowledge of electronic hardware and software implementation;
• Technical report writing and presentations skills;
• Good communication skills (verbal and written).

SA Citizenship is necessary, as a Security Clearance is required for this position.

Deadline: 5th August, 2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for a Reservations Office Manager in the CSIR Conferencing and Accommodation (C&A) portfolio, the incumbent will be responsible for managing the CSIR ICC Reservations Office with the objective of achieving the annual sales target as well as customer satisfaction for sustainable repeat business through implementation of standards  and monitoring  the use of product mix 
• (To ensure that the Centre’s Reservations Office operates efficiently and effectively to set standards, policies and procedures thereby increasing sales and sustainability). 
• The Reservations Office is the primary communication channel between customer requirements and CSIR ICC operating departments. Ensuring internal and external client satisfaction and optimum use of facilities prior to, during and after events. 
• This position is based in Pretoria.

This position reports to the: Business Development Manager

Key responsibilities:

• Manage and motivate the performance of the CSIR ICC Event Coordinators to perform their best in carrying out their respective duties to ensure excellent customer satisfaction.
• Establish, implement and maintain operating standards, processes and procedures for the Reservations Office function to provide excellent service to both internal and external clients.
• Ensure that all contracts are signed and deposits received prior to any event taking place and by checking of final invoices to minimise risk to the CSIR.
• Ensure that sales targets are met by monitoring sales against targets and implement corrective measures where necessary.
• Maximising CSIR ICC venue occupancy and revenue without compromising on client experience through assisting and advising the Event Coordinators on optimum utilisation and logistics between client requirements and the facilities, products, services and capabilities of the CSIR ICC and available spaces and resources.
• Foster good communication between the Event Coordinators and the CSIR ICC operational departments regarding planning for client requirements, thereby ensuring cross cutting teamwork resulting in the best possible products and services for the Centre’s clients
• Develop and communicate value adding client products/services such as overnight accommodation, Transport (shuttle and bus) and Pre and Post Tours and establish good relationships with suppliers for mutual benefit.
• Monitor and control commission payments to agents.
• Monitor and control the Reservations Office budget and assets to minimise risk to the CSIR.
• Contribute to the annual strategic planning process through reports, information, ideas and budget formulation to ensure that the Centre remains competitive and able to grow.
• Establish and maintain a healthy working environment in support of good employee relations and cross functional teamwork to assist in achieving the Centre’s goals.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

•  A National Diploma in Event Management or Hospitality or Tourism or Business Administration or any other related field with a minimum of five years’ experience in local/international conferencing environment.
• A Degree in any of the above-mentioned Fields will be advantageous
• Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)
• Management experience
• Systematic
• Process driven
• Customer focussed
• Sales ability/insight
• Delegating responsibility
• Accuracy
• Attention to detail
• People oriented
• Good interpersonal skills

What’s in it for you?

The CSIR offers:

• Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.

Closing date: 28 July 2025 

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for a Research Group Leader in the Aerospace Systems Impact Area, within the Defence and Security cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for the provision of strategic and technical leadership to a research group, including establishing new capabilities and technologies, people management, business development, packaging new aerospace solutions, financial sustainability and operations management. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Impact Area Manager.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead, grow and supervise a team of engineers in the development of systems, products and processes for the Department of Defence and the Aerospace and Defence market;
• Sustain current capabilities within the Research Group including but not limited to unmanned aerial systems, turbomachinery, weapons integration, aero-elasticity, flight simulation, scenario modelling and simulation, computational fluid dynamics and aerodynamics;
• Nurture, acquire and/or develop capabilities to:
  • Perform modelling and analysis of concepts of operations, doctrine, tactics, system and sub-system architecture;
  • Build world-class capabilities by leveraging systems engineering methods, tools, processes, techniques, training etc.
  • Conceptualise, package, cost, manage and deliver a portfolio of technology development projects;
  • Establish new product development process technology (processes, procedures, policies and standards)
• Elicit, agree and communicate requirements at user, product and sub-system level;
• Lead systems integration activities on projects so that subsystems work together seamlessly to meet product requirements;
• Develop and maintain validation and verification strategy;
• Ensure system level risks are understood, managed and communicated effectively;
• Own and co-ordinate multi-domain physics simulation to speed development time
• Contribute to strategic investment goal setting and development of RDI strategy;
• Implement the research, development and innovation (RD&I) strategy for the impact area;
• Promote a culture of science, engineering and technology (SET) excellence;
• Ensure that the area remains industry and/or service delivery relevant with national and international standing that is directed at cutting edge;
• Propose and/or contribute to the strategic investment plan and implement Parliamentary Grant, Contract Research and Development and other grant-funded projects;
• Develop and implement a business plan for operation, sustainable growth, impact and robustness of area (including strategy, goals, mission, HR, finances, technology transfer, , IP and commercialization);
• Assume leadership in the provision of technical solutions to client programmes;
• Deeply understand the needs of the industry by integrating sector knowledge in multi-dimensional research and development programs in order to deliver industry aligned RDI;
• Ensure staff development and strategic Human Capital Development;
• Ensure a well-balanced cutting edge SET capability, in terms of the elements of research, engineering design, or systems/enterprise engineering;
• Ensure SET outputs are achieved;
• Deliver on all KPIs of the area and ensure that all outputs are achieved, including transformation, profit and loss, quality, health, safety and environment as per agreed targets;
• Implement and comply with appropriate financial, business systems requirements, including operational approvals;
• Network with peers in the fields of expertise within and outside the CSIR;
• Engage with clients and industry partners to develop long term relationships;
• Provide technical support on business development and participate in client interactions;
• Ensure Intellectual Property (IP) protection and technology transfer;
• In collaboration with the Business Development and Commercialization portfolio: 
  • Drive the transfer of technology and solutions design to industry/user environment;
  • Package technologies for commercialisation or develop an “investment ready business” through financial modelling market assessment and business plan development.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in mechanical/aeronautical/mechatronics engineering or related fields with at least five years’ experience in a technology, engineering or RDI environment at a management level,
• A Doctoral degree in mechanical/aeronautical/mechatronics engineering will be advantageous;
• Must understand architecture definition and requirements analysis;
• Sound experience in managing a team of multi-disciplinary professions;
• Proven track record in project management and research project leadership;
• Working approach that actively pursues building relations across and between functions;
• Inquisitive mind and interest in the underlying principles behind systems engineering;
• Must be able to:
  • Provide thought leadership and high level conceptualisation;
  • Work independently as well as in teams;
  • Operate effectively on ambiguous early stage product development projects;
  • Persuade and influence across disciplines and functions within the organisation at all levels;
  • Effectively communicate complex ideas and concepts either verbally or in writing tailoring communication to suit different level particularly senior management;
  • Challenge conventions, change direction and redefine process to ensure delivery of value to the client;
• Business Development and financial acumen;
• Excellent communication and presentation skills;
• Conflict management skills;
• Decisiveness and action orientation;
• Project Management skills.
• Appropriate national and international RDI networks;
• An understanding of the research to market ‘innovation’ value chain.

What’s in it for you?

The CSIR offers:

• Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.

SA Citizenship is necessary, as a Security Clearance is required for this position.

Deadline: 3rd August, 2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Project Manager in the Aerospace Systems Impact Area, within the Defence and Security cluster. The incumbent will be expected to work at tactical and operational levels of management to deliver on the impact area’s mandate and strategy and apply project management expertise together with appropriate technical/domain/sector/industry specific technical acumen to achieve project goals by managing the total project management life cycle within project constraints according to applicable project management framework(s). This is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.

Key responsibilities:

• Initiate and manage projects by contributing to project proposals mainly from a financial perspective in terms of budget development and resource planning, ensure compliance to government requirements such as PFMA, ensure all project initiation documentation is in place and of appropriate quality;
• Plan projects through coordination of resources required for project execution, assist with the development of project plans, also resource planning and implementation;
• Execute, control and review project progress and expenditure;
• Provide monthly financial reporting to project leaders and HR reports as necessary;
• Assist with management and risk mitigation on projects, facilitate financial reports, liaising with stakeholders as necessary, balance constraints across and between projects;
• Manage team and stakeholders (facilitate and negotiate), including communication (e.g. regular internal and external team meetings and progress reporting);
• Close out projects in accordance with organisational processes and responsible for administrative closure of a project in terms of a project review, lessons learnt, financial closure of the project, project records and documents;
• Plays a major role in financial month and year end in preparing projects for funds declarations;
• Provide assistance on projects with any other issues they may face relating to health and safety issues, assets, procurement and marketing / engagement;
• Work across geographical boundaries with multiple stakeholders.
• Contribute to the Impact Area’s strategy development, and implement appropriate components of operations strategy
• Support the Business Development and Commercialisation Manager with national and international business development opportunities.
• Provide input into strategic leadership within Impact area level.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Master’s degree in aeronautical or mechanical engineering with at least eight years’ experience as a Project Manager, of which six years should be in Research Development Innovation (RDI) domain within the Defence and Security environment;

Must have:

• Experience in mechanical or aeronautical engineering design;
• Experience in all key component of Project Management such as resource planning, budgeting, reporting, and project artefacts;
• Proven experience in Systems Engineering Management;
• Experience in working with project teams across organisational boundaries, under tight and dynamic deadlines;
• A valid driver’s license and existing or eligible for Department of Defence (DOD) security clearance;
• A formal qualification or certification in Project Management (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP) will be advantageous;
• Track record in managing complex aerospace research and development project (s);
• Knowledge of the experimental aerodynamics, unmanned aerial vehicle, and missile system development lifecycle;
• Proven experience in leading teams with agile delivery;
• Strong knowledge of Agile and Lean methodologies;
• Adaptability to change, ability to multi-task and to consistently perform under pressure;
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work closely with others across research groups;
• Demonstrated skills in: analytical thinking and decision-making, flexibility and adaptability, investigative orientation, planning and organising, problem solving, verbal and written communication, diverse and dynamic team work, self-management (planning, prioritising and time management – includes the ability to work independently), systems level thinking, collaborating, multi-disciplinary knowledge; configuration management.

SA Citizenship is necessary, as a Security Clearance is required for this position.

Deadline: 31/07/2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for Air-Con Technician in the Facilities Management and Security Services Portfolio. The incumbent will perform installation and maintenance of air-conditioning, heating and refrigeration in specific areas of the CSIR. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Routine maintenance tasks on air-conditioning and refrigeration.
• Monitor and test system performance using special equipment, such as hand tools, laptop computers and diagnostic hardware.
• Carry out emergency repairs as may be required.
• Maintain tools used in heating, ventilating and air -conditioning maintenance (HVAC).
• Perform minor repairs.
• Carry out root cause analysis on critical and recurrent breakdowns and implement corrective action on air-con and refrigeration plant.
• Conduct fault finding and perform corrective maintenance on all plant in designated areas.
• Perform maintenance tasks on large chiller plants and cold rooms.
• Verification of the design and sizing of an air-con unit.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A National (N3) Certificate with at least three years of experience in air-conditioning, electrical and refrigeration.
• Air-conditioning Trade Test Certificate.
• A Code B or EB driver’s license.
• Problem solving ability.
• Good communication skills.
• High degree of customer focus and care.
• Ability to meet demanding deadlines.

Closing date: 26 July 2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for Graduate in Training in the Aerospace Systems Impact Area within the Defence and Security cluster. The purpose of this GIT program is to provide graduates with an opportunity to gain practical work experience under the guidance of experienced researchers and engineers within cross-functional teams. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.

Key responsibilities:

Wind Tunnel Plant Electrical System Management and Maintenance:

• Assist in electrical upgrades, installations, and system enhancements to improve performance in wind tunnel facilities;
• Assist in Wind Tunnel Plant Energy Management under Supervision;
• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical faults, including motors, control systems, and wiring.
• Assist with programming of Siemens and Allen Bradley PLCs;
• Design and install PFC (power factor correction);
• Assist in the installation, testing, and commissioning of instrumentation/sensor-based electrical systems and data acquisition systems.

Project Management and Upgrades:

• Support electrical system projects for wind tunnel plant infrastructure, ensuring timelines and safety standards are met;
• Assist in electrical upgrades, installations, and system enhancements to improve performance.

Automation and Control Systems:

• Assist with Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs);
• Assist in the design and integration of industrial automation and control systems;
• Design and program PCBs.

Team Support and Development:

• Collaborate with engineers and maintenance teams to improve operational efficiency;
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and assist in generating technical reports;
• Provide technical support, design and implementation in all areas;

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor of Engineering/Science degree in electrical and electronic engineering;
• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) for drafting electrical schematics;
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, PLC programming, and industrial automation;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) for reporting and data analysis;
• Good academic performance;
• Good interpersonal skills;
• Problem-solving and solution-seeking orientation;
• Excellent English communication, presentation and writing skills;
• Competencies: Analytical thinking; conceptual thinking, customer service orientation, initiative, networking and liaison; numerical reasoning; planning and organising; process engineering -and system competence and teamwork;
• Must be a South African citizen and eligible for security clearance.

Deadline: 29/07/2025

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About the job:

• The CSIR has a vacancy for Senior Radio Frequency (RF) Systems Engineer in the Radar and Electronic Warfare (EW) Impact Area within the Defence and Security cluster. The incumbent will be responsible to model, design and develop RF modules, sub-systems and antennas. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.

Key responsibilities:

• Interpret EW system requirements and specifications for design and development;
• Generate detail sub-system and Module item development specifications.
• Detail modelling of RF module- and antenna designs;
• Design, develop and test Radio Frequency Hardware;
• Debug, fault find and perform testing of RF Hardware including detail design validation.
• Comply with project configuration management systems and practice;
• Generate data packs and design documentation;
• Generate and execute appropriate acceptance test procedures.
• Understand and implement full development life cycle;

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor of Engineering degree in electronic engineering with at least five years’ relevant RF experience; OR
• A Master’s degree in RF or electronic warfare engineering field with at least three years’ relevant RF experience;
• Experience in the following is required:
  • Antenna design, testing and measurement,
  • RF Hardware design and testing (Up/down converters),
  • Simulation for design aspects as required,
  • Radio Freq, L, S, C, X, Ku, K and Ka-bands,
• Radar and Electronic Warfare design will be advantageous;
• Knowledge of schematic design and PC board layout
• General analogue electronics (e.g. op-amp circuits, power supplies) will be advantageous
• Mechanical and thermal interface concept design of RF and antenna circuits will be advantageous
• Must be able to interface with other engineers for detail design;
• The following skills and/or training will be advantageous:
  • MATLAB development
  • FEKO or similar simulation environments,
  • Hardware and software interfacing;
  • Systems engineering;
  • Understanding of RF and digital sub-systems;
  • Understanding of the implementation considerations for hardware and software;
• Proven capability of document preparation;
• Strong analytical thinking skills.

Deadline: 04/08/2025