Researcher in Electrical Engineering

Polytechnicpositions; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A South African university seeks a professional to lead a cross-disciplinary development team focused on nano-satellite subsystems. This role requires expertise in satellite engineering, with a Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering and 2-4 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include overseeing AIT activities, maintaining quality assurance, and engaging with stakeholders. The position is based in Bellville, and applicants must complete the online application process as CV uploads are not accepted.

Qualifications

• 2–4 years experience in the satellite industry, particularly nanosatellites.
• Proven subsystem-level experience in electronic communications systems (RF technologies preferred).
• Competency in satellite concepts, subsystem integration, and assembly.

Responsibilities

• Lead a cross-disciplinary development team focused on nano-satellite subsystems.
• Oversee all activities of the AIT team and interface with stakeholders.
• Maintain quality assurance and compliance with functional guidelines.

Skills

Project and financial management

Interpersonal and communication skills

Organizational skills

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Systems-level experience in small satellite development

Education

Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering

Job description

Institution: Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Faculty: Engineering
Department: Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering
Campus / Location: Bellville Campus, Cape Town, South Africa
Job Type: Fixed-term Contract (2 years)
Salary: To be confirmed (annual package incl. medical aid for principal member)
Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
Contact: Ms. Yandiswa Vuwani – [e-mail]

Position Purpose

Lead a cross-disciplinary development team focused on nano-satellite subsystems.

Work within the Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC), hosted by the French South African Institute of Technology.

Transition research outcomes into industry-ready prototypes in an agile aerospace environment.

Oversee all activities of the AIT team and interface with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Systems engineering for nano-satellite missions.

Assist in assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of satellite subsystems.

Interpret user/customer requirements into product specifications.

Coordinate engineering activities across projects and ensure budget and schedule compliance.

Maintain quality assurance, compliance with functional, manufacturing, and testing guidelines.

Keep detailed documentation of AIT activities.

Provide technical guidance to students in research and internship projects.

Engage with internal/external stakeholders regarding product support, requirements, and specifications.

Uphold ethical, professional, and safety standards.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering.

2–4 years experience in the satellite industry, particularly nanosatellites.

Proven subsystem-level experience in electronic communications systems (RF technologies preferred).

Recommended:

Systems-level experience in small satellite development.

Competency in satellite concepts, subsystem integration, and assembly.

Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills.

Project and financial management capabilities.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Additional Information

Applicants must complete all sections of the online application system; CV uploads are not accepted.

CPUT is committed to Employment Equity; preference given to candidates contributing to demographic representation.