Lead Electro-Optical AIT Technologist

Simera Sense; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading provider of Earth observation solutions is seeking a Lead Electro-Optical AIT Technologist in Somerset West. This role requires overseeing the assembly and integration of electro-optical systems, ensuring compliance with quality standards. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's Degree in relevant fields and over 5 years of experience in electronics systems production and team management. Competitive salary and a friendly work environment are offered.

Benefits

Opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry

Cutting-edge technology

Competitive salary

Friendly working environment

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing and production of electronics systems.
• 5+ years’ experience in managing a team of technicians.
• Good understanding of electronics production processes.
• Good understanding of electronics subassembly testing.
• Experience working in clean rooms.

Responsibilities

• Oversee assembly, integration, and testing of electro-optical systems.
• Collaborate with stakeholders.
• Conduct system analysis and testing.
• Manage technical projects and quality control.

Skills

Electro-optical systems understanding

Precision alignment

Environmental testing

Technical report writing

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in Electronic Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field

Tools

MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

Python test scripts

Job description

Simera Sense is a leading provider of Earth observation camera solutions for the global small satellite market. Committed to excellence and innovation, we deliver superior products and services to our worldwide customer base. Our Head Office is based in Belgium, and our South African company is based in Somerset West, close to all amenities and diverse natural beauty, providing great lifestyle options.

At Simera Sense, we are pioneering the future of space-based imaging by delivering cutting-edge electro-optical payloads that empower global Earth observation missions. As we continue to expand our capabilities and push the boundaries of innovation, we are seeking a Lead Electro-Optical AIT Technologist to join our dynamic team in Somerset West.

In this pivotal role, you will lead the AIT function for our advanced optical payloads, ensuring the seamless integration of optical, mechanical, and electronic subsystems. You will be responsible for developing and executing test procedures, overseeing cleanroom operations, and driving continuous improvement in our AIT processes. Collaborating closely with systems engineers, optical designers, and production teams, you will play a key role in delivering high-performance payloads that meet the rigorous demands of space environments.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on technologist with a deep understanding of electro-optical systems, precision alignment, and environmental testing to contribute to missions that make a global impact.

Job Purpose:

Oversee and coordinate the precise assembly, integration, and testing of electro-optical systems, ensuring they meet all technical and quality standards for successful space missions.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders
• Lead, oversee, develop/refine electronics manufacturing, assembly and integration of electro-optical systems
• Conduct system and component-level analysis and test electro-optical systems under various conditions to ensure they meet performance specifications
• Manage technical projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget constraints
• Implement quality control procedures, conduct inspections and audits of electro-optical systems, and address and resolve any non-conformances
• Maintain detailed records of assembly, integration, and testing activities
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements
• Lead and coordinate the electronics AIT team to ensure project milestones are met

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in Electronic Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field

Required Experience:

• 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing and production of electronics systems
• 5+ years’ experience in managing a team of technicians
• Good understanding of electronics production processes, including PCB reflow, hand-soldering, testing and quality assurance
• Good understanding of electronics subassembly testing and validation
• Solid technical report writing skills using MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

Recommendations:

• Experience working in clean rooms
• Experience in environmental testing and acceptance testing to high-quality standards
• Understanding radiation effects on electronics
• Experience working with electro-optical systems
• Experience using Python test scripts

Special requirement(s):

May be required to work on weekends and after hours

What we offer:

• The opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry.
• Niche global market for optical payloads for microsatellites.
• Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips
• A competitive salary
• A friendly working environment.