About the job:


The CSIR has a vacancy for Graduate in Training in the Aerospace Systems Impact Area within the Defence and Security cluster. The purpose of this GIT program is to provide graduates with an opportunity to gain practical work experience under the guidance of experienced researchers and engineers within cross-functional teams. This position is based in Pretoria and will report to the Research Group Leader.


Key responsibilities:

Wind Tunnel Plant Electrical System Management and Maintenance:


Assist in electrical upgrades, installations, and system enhancements to improve performance in wind tunnel facilities;
Assist in Wind Tunnel Plant Energy Management under Supervision;
Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical faults, including motors, control systems, and wiring.
Assist with programming of Siemens and Allen Bradley PLCs;
Design and install PFC (power factor correction);
Assist in the installation, testing, and commissioning of instrumentation/sensor-based electrical systems and data acquisition systems.


Project Management and Upgrades:


Support electrical system projects for wind tunnel plant infrastructure, ensuring timelines and safety standards are met;
Assist in electrical upgrades, installations, and system enhancements to improve performance.


Automation and Control Systems:


Assist with Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs);
Assist in the design and integration of industrial automation and control systems;
Design and program PCBs.


Team Support and Development:


Collaborate with engineers and maintenance teams to improve operational efficiency;
Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and assist in generating technical reports;
Provide technical support, design and implementation in all areas;


Qualifications, skills and experience:


A Bachelor of Engineering/Science degree in electrical and electronic engineering;
Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) for drafting electrical schematics;
Strong knowledge of electrical systems, PLC programming, and industrial automation;
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) for reporting and data analysis;
Good academic performance;
Good interpersonal skills;
Problem-solving and solution-seeking orientation;
Excellent English communication, presentation and writing skills;
Competencies: Analytical thinking; conceptual thinking, customer service orientation, initiative, networking and liaison; numerical reasoning; planning and organising; process engineering -and system competence and teamwork;
Must be a South African citizen and eligible for security clearance.


Deadline: 29/07/2025