Research Projects – CSOF3
Role summary for potential applicants
Reference Number: / 24382
Classification: / CSOF3
Salary Range: / AU $59,636 to AU $75,900 p.a. plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Location: / Geraldton, WA
Tenure: / Specified term ending 30 June 2017
Relocation assistance: / Will be provided to the successful candidate if required.
Applications are open to: / Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents Only
For Specified Term positions, we will accept applications from Temporary Residents with working rights for the length of the term, who do not require sponsorship.
Functional Area: / Research Projects
% Client Focus - Internal: / 100%
% Client Focus - External: / 0%
Reports to the: / Senior Engineer
Number of Direct Reports: / 0
Role Overview:
CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science (CASS) is completing instrumentation of the Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope at the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory (MRO) in mid-west WA and is seeking an experienced, qualified Mechanical technician or trades-person to join a small dedicated team of technicians and engineers.
This is a unique opportunity for a qualified fitter to provide skilled, hands-on technical assistance to install and maintain equipment associated with the radio telescope and other associated systems for the Radio Observatory. Work will take place both at the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory (MRO) and at the Murchison Support Facility (MSF) in Geraldton. Collaboration will also be required with staff based at other CASS Observatories and the Marsfield Laboratory in Sydney.
The successful candidate will play a key role in the ongoing establishment of the ASKAP Telescope, the MRO and the MSF along with maintenance, support and monitoring of the MRO and MSF.
CSIRO is committed to developing and valuing the benefits of a diverse workplace. Applications from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people(s), people with a disability and people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.We acknowledge the WajarriYamatji people as the traditional owners of the MRO site and encourage them to consider applying for this role.
Duties and Key Result Areas:
- Prepare, modify, install and maintain mechanical equipment associated with the radio astronomy antenna, including equipment racks, cable trays, and lightning protection systems.
- Perform monthly inspections of plant and equipment at the MRO.
- Facilitate and track movement of equipment to and from the MRO and MSF to other CASS sites for repair and upgrade to ensure optimum operational availability of the ASKAP Telescope.
- Assist in the development, and undertake maintenance, of mechanical systems documentation and testing procedures.
- Undertake training courses where required to enhance and maintain general and specialised skills.
- Communicate effectively and respectfully with all staff, clients and suppliers in the interests of good business practice, collaboration and enhancement of CSIRO’s reputation.
- Work as part of a multi-disciplinary, often regionally dispersed research team, to carry out tasks under limited direction in support of scientific research.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues within your team, the business unit and across CSIRO, to reach objectives.
- Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
- Other duties as directed.
Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
- Education/Qualifications: Completion of a recognised Australian mechanical trade or traineeship. If qualifications are obtained overseas, applicants must be able to show that these are recognised in Australia as equivalent.
- A current C class driver’s licence with ability to safely and competently operate 4WD vehicles.
- Demonstrated experience in mechanical fitting and the use of associated equipment, such as lathes, mills, welders etc.
- A history of professional and respectful behaviours and attitudes in a collaborative environment.
- The ability to effectively manage a number of competing priorities simultaneously, and carry out non-routine tasks under general direction.
- Proven ability to investigate routine problems by identifying and considering the implications of a range of available alternative solutions.
- The ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary, regionally dispersed research team, and carry out tasks under general direction from Scientific Researchers.
- Experience with the operation of an Elevated Work Platform. (EWP).
- Experience repairing and modifying mechanical equipment items in an industrial environment.
- Integrity of Excellent Science
- Trust & Respect
- Creative Spirit
- Delivering on Commitments
- Health, Safety & Sustainability
To be eligible for this position you must be willing and able to:
- Attend to out of hour’s breakdowns, work for extended periods on site at the MRO and work flexible hours if required.
- Travel to other CASS sites for training, development and maintenance of mechanical-related systems.
- Routinely work at remote locations away from Geraldton (the MRO is approximately 360 km from Geraldton);
- Perform field work outside in conditions typically found in the Murchison region (arid remote area with high summer temperatures exceeding 45˚C);
- Work in restricted spaces, confined spaces and at heights of up to 25 metres; and
- Travel long distances by car.
Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at You may be asked to provide additional information (online) relevant to the selection criteria. If so, then responding will enhance your application so please take the time to provide relevant succinct answers. Applicants who do not provide the information when requested may not be considered.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 984 220 and someone will be able to assist you. Outside business hours please email: .
Referees: If you do not already have the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or academic/ professional referees included in your resume/CV please add these before uploading your CV.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Suzy Jackson via email: or phone: +61 8 9923 7766
Please do not email your application directly to Ms Jackson. Applications received via this method will not be considered.
About CSIRO
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Our innovations contribute billions of dollars to the Australian economy every year. As the largest patent holder in the nation, our vast wealth of intellectual property has led to more than 150 spin-off companies.
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Find out more!
CSIRO Astronomy & Space Science provides facilities for scientists from Australia and around the world to explore our solar system and beyond. CASS operates a number of world-class radio astronomy observatories that are collectively known as the Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF). These include the Parkes 64m diameter radio telescope, the Australia Telescope Compact Array at Narrabri and the Mopra radio telescope, near Coonabarabran. CSIRO is now constructing ASKAP at the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory (MRO) in Western Australia and this will be operated as part of the ATNF.
The CASS office in Perth is housed within the modern Australian Resources Research Centre (ARRC), which is located six kilometres south of Perth city and close to Curtin University. The Perth astronomical community is large and vibrant, consisting of researchers from Curtin University, the University of Western Australia, and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR).
Find out more about CASS at