Chief Technologist, Australia Telescope National Facility

Acknowledgement of Country

CSIRO acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live and work on across Australia. We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. View our vision towards reconciliation

The opportunity

• Work for Australia’s National Science Agency and the ATNF
• Contribute to the global effort to understand our Universe
• Set the strategy for ATNF technology development

About CSIRO

At CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, we deliver transformative, positive impacts through science and technology. Named the most trusted government service in 2022 by Roy Morgan’s Trusted Brand Awards, we collaborate with universities, government, industry and innovative communities across the country and internationally. With over 6,000 staff, we contribute to Australia’s national prosperity, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing.

About the Australia Telescope National Facility 

With over 350 staff, we operate several radio astronomy observatories and data archives collectively known as the Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF), the only facility of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Our technology development program is the cornerstone of the ATNF and is an internationally recognised source of innovative radio astronomy instrumentation.  

The ATNF has been involved with the international SKA project from its inception, and our ATNF locations, telescopes and engineering expertise are in an excellent position to support and extend the science goals of the SKA telescopes over the next decade. 

The ATNF is part of CSIRO’s Space & Astronomy research unit, and together we aim to enable humanity to understand our Earth and Universe. 

The role

Reporting to the ATNF Program Director, the ATNF Chief Technologist will set the strategy for technology development. You will oversee a portfolio of future-focused technology development projects.  Using your deep knowledge, expertise and reputation in innovative radio astronomy research, you will lead the interface with the global astronomy community on the development of future instrumentation for radio astronomy. 

You will be a collaborative and visionary leader who can mentor and coach others and inspire performance. You will be responsible for setting an ambitious yet achievable vision for the technology department to push the boundaries of radio astronomy.

This is your opportunity to lead in a world-class radio astronomy facility, where the associated technology and instrumentation is amongst the best globally.  

Note, we are also recruiting the Program Director that this role reports to as well as the wider ATNF leadership team, so please ensure you share with your relevant networks. 

• Head of Science
• Head of Operations
• Head of Software & Scientific Computing
• Head of Instrumentation
• Chief Engineer 
• Chief Scientist

Location: Sydney (Marsfield), or Perth (Kensington) are the preferred locations. Consideration may be given to Parkes, Narrabri, or Geraldton.

Salary: Attractive salary package plus 15.4% superannuation, negotiable for the right candidate

Tenure: Specified term of five years with the possibility of an underlying indefinite research appointment. Full-time.

Reference: 97642

About you

We are seeking a strategic, innovative and collaborative leader who has:

• A PhD (or an equivalent combination of qualifications and research experience) in radio science and technology.
• A track record in identifying and adopting nascent technologies to advance radio science and technology.
• Demonstrated experience in applying strategic thinking to setting the direction of an R&D organisation. 
• A demonstrated record of adherence to professional ethics and conduct, including professional and respectful workplace behaviour and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. 
• The willingness and ability to travel interstate and internationally, as required.

For a detailed overview of the role and responsibilities, please review the Position Description.

Eligibility

Applications are open to all candidates who meet the requirements of the role. (VISA sponsorship will be provided to the successful candidate as required). 

Note: the successful candidate will be required to undertake a National Police Clearance or equivalent and there may be other security/medical/character clearance requirements. 

Flexible working arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Find out more about our approach to work-life balance.

Diversity and inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

We encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Child safety

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy.

How to apply

Please apply on-line with a curriculum vitae and cover letter or summary (no longer than 1,000 words) outlining the motivation for applying and a high-level summary response to the selection criteria described in the position description.

Applications close

Wednesday 18 September 2024, at 11.59pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time)

We encourage early applications as late applications will not be accepted.