"Senior Systems Engineer (SKA Lead)"

Job Description:

• Lead the systems engineering of a globally significant scientific infrastructure—the SKA-Mid telescope.
• Collaborate with international partners and drive innovation in astronomical instrumentation.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 2 years.
• Base salary range: $104,243– $115,661 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a joint venture between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA), established in 2009 and funded through 2030 with $65 million from the WA State Government. ICRAR is a leading institution in radio astronomy and a key Australian contributor to the global SKA project. The Astrophotonics Group within ICRAR develops advanced photonic systems for radio and optical astronomy, with a focus on long-distance transfer of stabilised frequency and timing signals via optical fibre and free-space laser links.

About the opportunity

• Provide technical leadership with the Lead Engineer in the design and integration of the Frequency Distribution System (FRQ) for the SKA-Mid telescope.
• Drive system architecture decisions, engineering change management, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Liaise with the SKA Office, partner institutions, and industry collaborators to ensure successful project delivery.

About you

• Tertiary qualification in systems engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in systems engineering leadership and lifecycle management.
• Skilled in RAMS analysis, FMEA, and engineering change control.
• Proficient in system modelling tools (e.g., SysML, Cameo) and requirements platforms (e.g., JAMA).
• Strong communication, documentation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Position description: PD - Senior Systems Engineer (SKA Lead) (521744).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Mike Kriele at mike.kriele@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 30 November 2025

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.