SARAO: Graduate-In-Training Programme 2026

ByRainbow Time

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory – NRF/SARAO invites applications for the 2026 Graduate-In-Training Programme, an opportunity designed to provide recent graduates with practical experience in radio astronomy and related fields.

This programme aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application by offering hands-on training, mentorship, and involvement in cutting-edge projects. Participants will engage in engineering, data science, software development, and project management, gaining valuable skills to advance their careers in the industry or academia.

The position is available for South African citizens who have completed or are in their final year of study in relevant engineering and science fields. The programme duration is three years, with placements at SARAO facilities located in Cape Town (Western Cape), Klerefontein (Northern Cape), Karoo Support Base, and Hartebeesthoek (Gauteng). Interested candidates must complete a mandatory online assessment as part of the selection process. Applications close on Monday, 17 November 2025.

Position: Graduate-In-Training
Duration: 3 years
Location: SARAO facilities at Cape Town (Western Cape), Karoo Support Base, Klerefontein (Northern Cape), and Hartebeesthoek (Gauteng)
Closing Date: 17 November 2025

Graduate Training Opportunities
2026 SARAO GRADUATE-IN-TRAINING RECRUITMENT PROGRAMME
Applications remain open until the deadline

The SARAO Graduate In-Training Programme stands as an exceptional opportunity crafted to equip recent graduates with hands-on practical experience within their respective fields of study, with a special emphasis on radio astronomy and its associated disciplines.

This initiative seeks to narrow the divide between theoretical academic knowledge and its practical application in the real world by providing structured training, personalized mentorship, and immersion in innovative, cutting-edge projects. The programme represents a pivotal stepping stone for individuals eager to deepen their expertise and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of scientific research and technology.

Participants in this programme encounter a diverse range of responsibilities tied to radio astronomy, encompassing engineering challenges, data science applications, software development tasks, and project management duties. Engagement in these areas fosters the development of a robust skill set, including problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and an understanding of complex systems.

Such experiences prove invaluable, paving the way for career progression within the industry or further academic pursuits. The programme’s design ensures that graduates emerge with a competitive edge, equipped with both practical and theoretical insights that align with current industry demands.

  • Background: The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) actively recruits bright and enthusiastic Engineering and Science-Honours graduates for its Graduate-In-Training programme, recognizing the need to nurture talent in these critical fields.

Important Notes:

  • Shortlisted candidates face the requirement to complete a mandatory online assessment as an integral component of the selection process, ensuring a thorough evaluation of their capabilities.
  • Successful graduates secure placement within SARAO facilities located in Cape Town (Western Cape) and the Karoo Support Base, offering diverse working environments.

Eligibility:

  • This opportunity extends to South African citizens who have completed or currently find themselves in the final year of studies in the following areas:
    • BEng/BScEng degrees in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical/Mechatronics, or Civil engineering.
    • BEng/BScEng in Computer Science, alongside BSc(Hons) in Computer Science.
    • BEng or BTech qualifications in Civil Engineering.
    • MSc degrees specializing in Electronics, Radio Frequency, or Antennas.

Application Details:

The programme offers placements at Klerefontein (Northern Cape) and the Hartebeesthoek site (Gauteng) for a committed duration of three years, with the starting date set for March 2026. SARAO extends financial assistance to successful graduates who choose to register for a Master’s degree on a part-time basis at a South African university while participating in the graduate programme, supporting continued education.

For any inquiries, individuals may contact SARAO HR via email at [email protected] to address specific questions or concerns. The closing date for applications falls on Monday, 17 November 2025, urging prompt action from interested candidates.

A direct link to the online application portal, labeled as the SARAO GIT APPLICATION FORM, remains available for submissions. Further information and resources reside on the official website at www.sarao.ac.za, serving as a comprehensive hub for programme details.

How to Apply

Apply Here: Graduate-In-Training Programme 2026