Communications Engineer/Technician

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring a Communications Engineer/Technician, based in Marion Island. This is a contract post, paying R932,292 a year. (Fifteen Months Contract) How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/ Reference number to quote: OC30/2026 Closing date: 09 November 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV. Note: The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with email, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental wellbeing of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.

Responsibilities

• The incumbent will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, fault-finding on and repairs of all the communication services and equipment of our Marion Base including the satellite, radio, IT, GPS, alarm and telephone systems.
• Operate cargo handling equipment.
• The incumbent will report to the team leader and will be part of the technical team, led by the technical team leader that has to perform any additional base related technical functions.
• Prepare monthly and annual reports, do stock-takes to order spares and equipment and do other common “non-technical” duties performed by expedition members.

Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Electronic, Computer Science Engineering, IT or relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA with at least 3 years post qualification experience.
• Competency in electronic maintenance, diagnostics and repairs with proven fault-finding capabilities.
• Preferably have experience in V-Sat Satellite Systems, IT (managing a computer network with LINUX servers and routers), HF and VHF 2-way radio equipment and operation, Telephone systems (PABX's and VOIP), PC's, Fire Detection Systems, GPS's, general electronic equipment repair.
• The incumbent has to be competent in the use of an Oscilloscope, Spectrum Analyser, etc., and be familiar with good workshop practices, correct use of basic workshop tools and an understanding of current work, health and safety policies.
• The incumbent has to be able to work independently with minimal support under extreme pressure and without supervision.
• The incumbent must be computer literate, have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team.