The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) has officially opened applications for its 2027 Graduate-in-Training (GIT) Recruitment Programme, offering recent engineering and science graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in one of Africa’s leading research and technology organisations.
The three-year graduate programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice through structured mentorship, practical training, and participation in world-class radio astronomy and engineering projects. Successful candidates will begin the programme on 1 March 2027, with applications closing on 21 September 2026.
About the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme
SARAO is responsible for leading South Africa’s participation in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. The Graduate-in-Training Programme develops the next generation of engineers, scientists, software developers, and technology professionals by providing exposure to cutting-edge research infrastructure and multidisciplinary projects.
Participants will contribute to areas such as radio astronomy, engineering design, software development, data science, cybersecurity, infrastructure development, and project management while receiving continuous guidance from experienced professionals.
The programme provides an excellent foundation for graduates seeking careers in scientific research, advanced engineering, digital technologies, and innovation.
Programme Benefits
Graduates selected for the programme will receive comprehensive professional development throughout the three-year placement.
Key benefits include:
- Structured mentorship from experienced engineers and scientists.
- Hands-on involvement in nationally significant research and engineering projects.
- Technical and professional skills development through workshops and practical training.
- Networking opportunities with researchers, industry experts, and technology leaders.
- Exposure to advanced radio astronomy and SKA-related technologies.
- Financial assistance for successful graduates who register for a part-time Master’s degree at a South African university during the programme.
This combination of workplace experience and postgraduate support makes the programme particularly valuable for graduates interested in pursuing both industry and academic career pathways.
Placement Locations
Successful graduates will be appointed for a three-year fixed training period commencing on 1 March 2027.
Placements will be made across SARAO’s operational sites, including:
- Cape Town, Western Cape
- Karoo Support Base, Northern Cape
- Klerefontein, Northern Cape
- Hartebeesthoek, Gauteng
Graduates should be prepared to work at any of these locations depending on organisational requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
The opportunity is open exclusively to South African citizens who have completed, or are in the final year of completing, eligible qualifications.
Applicants may qualify with degrees in the following fields:
Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Computing and Data Sciences
- Software Engineering
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Computer Engineering
- Information Systems
- Cybersecurity
- Information Security
Built Environment
- Quantity Surveying (Honours)
- Construction Management (Honours)
Eligible qualifications include BSc, BSc Engineering, BEng, BTech, Advanced Diploma, and Honours degrees, depending on the discipline.
Selection Process
SARAO has indicated that shortlisted candidates will participate in a mandatory online assessment as part of the recruitment process.
The assessment forms an important component of the selection process alongside the evaluation of academic qualifications and overall suitability for the programme.
Applicants are encouraged to submit complete and accurate applications well before the deadline to maximise their chances of consideration.
Why Join SARAO?
The Graduate-in-Training Programme offers far more than conventional graduate employment. Participants gain direct experience working within South Africa’s internationally recognised radio astronomy ecosystem while contributing to projects supporting the MeerKAT telescope and the Square Kilometre Array initiative.
Graduates develop practical expertise in advanced technologies, collaborative research environments, large-scale engineering systems, scientific computing, and infrastructure development. These experiences provide a strong platform for long-term careers in engineering, science, research, technology, and innovation.
For graduates passionate about solving complex technical challenges and contributing to globally significant scientific projects, the programme represents an exceptional career-launch opportunity.
Application Deadline
Eligible South African graduates should submit their online applications before the closing date.
Closing Date: Monday, 21 September 2026
Enquiries regarding the programme can be directed to SARAO People and Culture via email.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
