South African National Space Agency (SANSA)·Western Cape, south-africa·Full Time·Remote
EngineeringFull TimeRemote
-Closes Nov 13, 2026
Contract Salary: R593 436.00 pa (total cost to company)
Requirements
About the role:
SANSA Space Science operates a network of space weather instruments on sub-Antarctic Marion Island that forms part of South Africa's contribution to global geomagnetic, ionospheric and space weather monitoring.
The Electronics Engineer will be responsible for keeping these instruments operational for the duration of the overwintering expedition, ensuring that continuous, high-quality data reach SANSA in Hermanus, and supporting the wider scientific programme of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP).
The engineer will work largely independently, with remote support from the Engineering and Data Acquisition team in Hermanus. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain extensive hands-on experience with scientific instrumentation in one of the most remote environments on Earth.
The ideal candidate will have:
At least a BEng/BSc (Eng) degree in Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering, or an equivalent qualification
A minimum of 2 - 3 years' relevant working experience in electronic engineering, instrumentation, or a related technical field
Proven competency in electronic maintenance, diagnostics, and repair, with strong fault-finding capabilities down to component level
The ability to read and interpret circuit schematics, technical drawings, and datasheets, and to use standard test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, and spectrum analysers
Practical workshop skills, including soldering, cable and connector assembly, and PCB level repair
Experience working with computers, especially with Linux operating systems, including command-line use and basic system administration
A working knowledge of computer networking (TCP/IP, routers, switches) and remote access tools
Experience in programming and scripting, especially in Bash and Python
Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to keep accurate records and write clear technical reports
The ability to work independently, show initiative, and solve problems with limited resources and remote support
The ability to work and live with small groups of people in an isolated environment is essential
The following will be considered an advantage:
An MSc/MEng degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Experience with data acquisition systems, sensors, and scientific or measurement instrumentation
Familiarity with RF systems, antennas, GNSS receivers, or software-defined radio (SDR)
Experience with power systems such as UPS units, battery banks, and off grid/solar installations
Previous experience working in remote, field-based, or expedition environments
Applicants will be expected to:
Complete three months of training at SANSA Space Science in Hermanus on the instruments, systems, and procedures before deployment
Operate, maintain, and upgrade SANSA's space weather instrumentation on Marion Island
Install, commission, maintain, calibrate, and modify electronic instruments and systems for the collection, reduction, and analysis of data
Perform routine data quality checks and ensure the timely transfer of data to SANSA in Hermanus
Carry out scheduled preventative maintenance, and diagnose and repair faults promptly to minimise data loss
Design and build new equipment, and support the installation of new or upgraded instruments and experiments
Execute experiments related to Space Weather studies
Manage spares, consumables, and tools, and keep accurate maintenance logs and records
Compile regular comprehensive engineering reports for SANSA
Give core engineering and technical support to other scientific programmes and the base team, and take part in general base duties and relief-voyage operations as required