SARAO - South African Radio Astronomy Observatory
About SARAO
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is a facility of the National Research Foundation. We manage major radio astronomy initiatives in South Africa, including the MeerKAT Radio Telescope and the HartRAO facility. We are currently seeking a skilled professional to join our team in Cape Town.
Role Overview: People and Culture Business Partner
The People and Culture Business Partner supports the SKA-Mid collaboration team. This role provides end-to-end human resources solutions, focusing on recruitment, performance management, employee relations, and talent development. You will work closely with stakeholders to ensure HR services are efficient, compliant, and aligned with both SARAO and SKAO policies. This position is vital for maintaining a productive workforce within a complex, dual-governance environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy and Planning
- Contribute to HR strategic plans and monitor progress toward key goals.
- Implement business unit strategies that align with the broader People and Culture objectives.
- Help departmental heads design effective organizational structures.
- Manage manpower budgets and provide accurate quarterly reporting on risks and deliverables.
Performance Management
- Support managers in setting clear, measurable objectives for their teams.
- Coach leadership on performance improvement and execution.
- Coordinate the annual performance review process and provide expert advice on related matters.
- Identify training needs to help develop the Workplace Skills Plan.
Staffing and Recruitment
- Identify the skills and resources needed to achieve business goals.
- Manage the full recruitment cycle, from creating job advertisements to finalizing appointments.
- Oversee candidate assessments for selection and internal career development.
Governance and Compliance
- Ensure all HR processes follow South African labor laws and internal policies.
- Manage HR records for audit purposes and address any compliance risks.
- Monitor Employment Equity (EE) targets and submit required reports on time.
- Manage the skills development component of the BBBEE scorecard.
Employee Relations and Culture
- Provide guidance on labor law and manage workplace grievances efficiently.
- Foster a positive workplace culture by analyzing employee feedback and developing action plans.
- Manage onboarding and induction programs for new employees.
- Lead talent management initiatives, including succession planning and career pathing.
Requirements
Education and Experience
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Industrial Psychology, or a related field.
- 5 to 8 years of experience as an HR Generalist.
- Experience working in a matrix or dual-governance environment.
- A background in large-scale projects, research institutions, or the engineering/technical sector is preferred.
Knowledge and Skills
- In-depth knowledge of South African Labour Law and HR best practices.
- Proficiency in HR Information Systems (HRIS) for payroll, recruitment, and data analytics.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to advocate for workplace innovation.
- Excellent interpersonal and consultation skills with the ability to build trust at all levels.
- Strong project management skills and attention to detail.
- Willingness to travel nationally and internationally when required.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and are interested in this opportunity, please submit your application through the SARAO careers portal. Ensure your CV highlights your experience in complex HR environments and your familiarity with technical industries.