Lead Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Retirement plan

Hybrid work

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced ATC systems, with leadership over a team of engineers and technicians.

The position balances in-office Upington collaboration with remote work flexibility and demands strong aviation safety knowledge and experience with real-time critical systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in systems engineering, with at least 5 years in ATC.
• Experience designing, integrating, and testing real-time systems.
• Strong knowledge of radar, communication, ADS-B/MLAT, and navigation aids.
• Familiarity with DO-178C/DO-254 safety standards.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee lifecycle of ATC systems from design to deployment and support.
• Lead a team of engineers and specialists in ATC solutions.
• Develop and maintain system architecture documentation and specifications.
• Conduct performance, risk and failure mode analyses for critical ATC systems.
• Collaborate with air traffic controllers, authorities, and vendors to meet needs.
• Ensure designs comply with national/international aviation standards.
• Manage upgrades, maintenance and troubleshooting schedules.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose enhancements for ATC systems.

Skills

Leadership

Systems Engineering

Real-time Systems

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer/Aerospace Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Radar systems

ADS-B/MLAT knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the aviation infrastructure sector, is seeking an experienced Lead Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer to join their team in **Upington, Northern Cape**. This is a critical role responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced air traffic control (ATC) systems. The position requires a blend of deep technical expertise, strong leadership skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation safety and operational requirements. While this role is primarily based in our **Upington** facility, we offer a hybrid work model, allowing for a balanced approach between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. You will be instrumental in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and safety of air traffic management operations within the region. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to vital national infrastructure and shape the future of air travel safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of ATC systems, from initial design and specification to deployment and ongoing support.
• Lead a team of systems engineers and technical specialists in the development and integration of complex ATC solutions.
• Develop and maintain system architecture documentation, including functional and technical specifications.
• Conduct performance analysis, risk assessments, and failure mode analysis for critical ATC systems.
• Collaborate closely with air traffic controllers, aviation authorities, and hardware/software vendors to meet operational needs.
• Ensure all system designs and implementations comply with national and international aviation standards and regulations.
• Manage system upgrades, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting efforts.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose innovative solutions to enhance ATC system capabilities.
• Participate in safety reviews and certification processes for ATC systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in systems engineering, with at least 5 years focused on Air Traffic Control (ATC) systems.
• Demonstrated experience in system design, integration, and testing of complex real-time systems.
• Strong knowledge of radar systems, communication systems, surveillance technologies (ADS-B, MLAT), and navigation aids.
• Experience with safety-critical systems, including familiarity with relevant standards (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254).
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing remote and in-office duties in **Upington**.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Generous paid time off and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and further certifications.
• Hybrid work arrangement for improved work-life balance.
• Exposure to cutting-edge air traffic management technologies.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.