2027 SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme for Engineering and Science Graduates in South Africa

Overview

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) has opened applications for its 2027 Graduate-in-Training Programme for engineering and science graduates. SARAO leads South Africa's participation in the Square Kilometre Array on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. The programme lasts three years and begins on 1 March 2027.

Participants work on projects across radio astronomy, engineering design, software development, data science, cybersecurity, infrastructure development and project management, with continuous guidance from experienced professionals. The work supports the MeerKAT telescope and the Square Kilometre Array.

What you get

Benefits include structured mentorship from engineers and scientists, hands-on involvement in nationally significant projects, workshops and practical training, networking with researchers and industry leaders, exposure to SKA-related technologies, and financial assistance for graduates who register for a part-time Master's degree at a South African university during the programme.

Placements are at SARAO sites in Cape Town in the Western Cape, the Karoo Support Base and Klerefontein in the Northern Cape, and Hartebeesthoek in Gauteng. Graduates may be assigned to any of these depending on organisational needs.

Who can apply

The programme is open only to South African citizens who have completed, or are in the final year of, an eligible qualification. Eligible fields include mechanical, mechatronic, electrical, electronic and civil engineering, software engineering, computer science, data science, computer engineering, information systems, cybersecurity and information security, and, at Honours level, quantity surveying and construction management. Accepted qualifications include BSc, BSc Engineering, BEng, BTech, Advanced Diploma and Honours degrees, depending on the discipline.

How to apply

Applications are submitted online. Shortlisted candidates must complete a mandatory online assessment. Enquiries can be directed to SARAO People and Culture.

Key dates

Applications close on Monday, 21 September 2026, and the programme starts on 1 March 2027.