The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is one of the country’s key public entities under the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE). With a mandate to provide accurate and timely weather and climate services, SAWS plays a critical role in ensuring sustainable development, economic growth, and the safety of South Africans. As part of its continued growth, SAWS is currently seeking qualified individuals to fill various vacancies across its regional offices.
List of South African Weather Service Vacancies
1. Senior Technologist (De Aar Office)
- Ref: WS05/032025
- Salary Range: R360,630.00 – R495,606.00
As a Senior Technologist at SAWS, you will be responsible for managing the regional observation infrastructure. This involves ensuring that weather observation networks, such as automatic weather stations, radar, and lightning detection systems, are fully operational and delivering accurate data. This role requires both technical expertise in meteorological equipment and leadership skills to manage infrastructure projects and ensure network availability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintenance, upgrade, and calibration of meteorological equipment.
- Monitoring the performance of remote observation networks.
- Liaising with commercial clients and identifying new sites for network expansion.
- Preparing infrastructure status reports and ensuring compliance with standards.
Minimum Requirements:
- A BTech in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or equivalent.
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience in an electrical/electronic engineering environment.
- Code EB or Code 08 driver’s license.
Closing Date: 31 March 2025
2. Senior Meteorological Technician (Cape Town Office)
- Ref: WS06/032025
- Salary: Negotiable
The Senior Meteorological Technician role is based at the Cape Town Weather Office. This position requires a technician with expertise in aeronautical meteorology and the maintenance of meteorological instruments. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring the functionality of weather observation equipment, including air quality monitoring stations, and performing quality control of data.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform visual weather observations and collect meteorological data.
- Install and maintain weather observation equipment.
- Ensure the accuracy of meteorological data before submission to SAWS databases.
- Assist with the mentoring and training of junior meteorological technicians.
Minimum Requirements:
- NQF Level 4 Senior Certificate with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- ICAO AMO competency certificate.
- At least 3 years of experience in the meteorological environment.
- A code 8 driver’s license.
Closing Date: 31 March 2025
3. Senior Meteorological Technician (Lanseria Office)
- Ref: WS07/032025
- Salary: Negotiable
This role mirrors the responsibilities of the Senior Meteorological Technician at the Cape Town office but is based at the Lanseria Weather Office. In this role, you will be responsible for observing and reporting weather conditions, maintaining meteorological instruments, and performing quality control for weather data.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform timely weather observations and data collection.
- Install and maintain weather observation equipment.
- Monitor equipment performance and carry out routine maintenance.
Minimum Requirements:
- NQF Level 4 Senior Certificate with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- ICAO AMO competency certificate.
- A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a meteorological environment.
Closing Date: 31 March 2025
4. Scientist: Observations and Assurance (Centurion Office)
- Ref: WS03/032025
- Salary Range: R460,770.00 – R583,451.00
The Scientist in the Observations and Assurance Unit plays a pivotal role in monitoring and ensuring the availability and quality of climate data from the surface and upper-air observation networks. You will be at the forefront of developing new methods to improve data accuracy and working on various climate-related projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor data availability and ensure accurate daily reports for the Climate database.
- Assist in the development of strategies for improving observation techniques.
- Collaborate with international and national institutions on climate observation standards.
- Conduct scientific research and contribute to reports and publications.
Minimum Requirements:
- A 4-year degree in Atmospheric Sciences or a related field (Master’s degree is an advantage).
- At least 2 years of experience in data quality assurance or a scientific environment.
- Proficiency in SQL, GIS (ArcGIS), and report writing.
Closing Date: 4 April 2025
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How to Apply
To apply for any of the above positions, visit the SAWS Careers Page, where you can register as a user and upload your comprehensive CV along with certified copies of your qualifications.
Note: All vacancies are open to people living with disabilities in line with SAWS Employment Equity targets. Preference will be given to females, Africans, Indians, and Coloured candidates. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Also check: PSV Circular 09 of 2025: Available Government Vacancies in South Africa 2025
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) offers a range of exciting career opportunities for individuals passionate about weather, climate, and technology. Whether you are an experienced meteorological technician, a scientist with a focus on data assurance, or an engineering professional skilled in maintaining observing networks, SAWS provides a platform for growth and innovation. By joining SAWS, you not only gain the chance to work in a dynamic and evolving field but also contribute to the country’s sustainable development and economic progress through accurate weather and climate services.
