• Join a globally significant science and engineering project helping to deliver the world's largest radio telescope, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
• Apply your systems engineering expertise to advanced optical fibre, frequency transfer and astronomical instrumentation technologies in a highly collaborative international environment.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 12 months.
• Base salary range: $120,912 – $132,161 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a high-profile joint venture between The University of Western Australia and Curtin University. Established in 2009 and supported by the Western Australian Government, ICRAR is one of Australia’s leading astronomy organisations and a key contributor to the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Project.

Within ICRAR, the Astrophotonics Group designs, builds and tests advanced photonic systems for radio astronomy, optical astronomy and space science. The group brings together expertise in astronomy, physics and engineering, with core capability in the long-distance transfer of stabilised optical-frequency, microwave-frequency and timing signals across optical fibre networks and free-space laser links.

About the opportunity

• Support the Design Authority, Systems Engineering Manager and Senior Systems Engineer, to develop and refine the architecture, requirements, interfaces and design baselines for the SKA-Mid Frequency Distribution System, in line with SKAO requirements, standards and the Systems Engineering Management Plan.
• Lead and contribute to requirements engineering, trade studies, risk and RAMS analyses, FMEA, configuration and change control, and verification and validation planning; produce high-quality specifications, interface control documents, test procedures and configuration records.
• Work across office-based engineering and hands-on laboratory integration and testing, collaborating with SKAO, partner institutions, industry, quality and engineering teams to resolve complex technical issues and deliver compliant project outcomes.

About you

• A tertiary qualification in systems engineering, electrical engineering or a related discipline, together with extensive relevant experience, or equivalent demonstrated professional experience.
• Extensive experience applying systems engineering and lifecycle principles to complex technical systems, including architecture, requirements management, interface management, integration, verification and validation, risk analysis, and engineering change control.
• Experience in RAMS analysis and FMEA, with strong analytical capability and a track record of identifying technical risks early and developing practical mitigations.
• Proficiency with system modelling tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler (SysML) and/or Microsoft Visio, and experience using a requirements management platform such as JAMA.
• Hands-on laboratory or field experience in system integration, testing and technical verification, supported by clear technical writing and the ability to influence outcomes across multidisciplinary and international stakeholder groups.

Note: As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to complete declarations in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.

Position description:  Systems Engineer - 524859.pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Cameron McDonald at cameron.mcdonald@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Zen Huang at zen.huang@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, 22 November 2026, with interviews likely taking place on 26 and 27 November 2026. 

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, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, 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. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.