The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa’s leading scientific and technological research institution, is offering an exciting Graduate in Training opportunity in aeronautical engineering.
The CSIR is committed to driving socio-economic prosperity in South Africa through research, development, localisation, and the diffusion of technologies, making this an exceptional opportunity for aspiring engineers to contribute to the nation’s growth while gaining hands-on experience in the cutting-edge field of aeronautical engineering.
About CSIR and the Role
The CSIR is a key player in the country’s industrial development, advancing both technological and scientific breakthroughs. The organisation operates across various sectors, with a focus on developing solutions that address pressing issues in South Africa, including the Defence and Security clusters.
Within this cluster, the CSIR’s Aeronautics Systems Impact Area offers a graduate program aimed at providing young professionals with practical experience in aeronautical engineering.
Key Responsibilities
As a Graduate in Training at the CSIR, the selected candidate will be involved in a range of exciting and challenging projects. Key responsibilities will include:
- Unmanned Aircraft Design: Participating in the design and development of unmanned aircraft, an essential area of growth in modern aviation.
- Technology Demonstration: Building and testing aircraft technology demonstrators to validate and refine engineering designs.
- Aero-structure Design: Designing the critical structures of aircraft, ensuring they are both lightweight and durable, capable of withstanding the forces encountered in flight.
- Aircraft Analysis: Performing detailed analysis of aircraft designs to assess performance, stability, and reliability.
- Simulation Models: Developing and applying simulation models to predict and optimize aircraft behavior under various conditions.
- Programming Solutions: Implementing programming solutions in Python, C++, and MATLAB, essential tools for modern aeronautical engineering.
The position will provide graduates with the opportunity to hone their technical skills, particularly in design, analysis, and simulation, while gaining exposure to real-world projects in the aerospace industry.
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
To qualify for this Graduate in Training position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Requirements: A Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering is essential. Candidates who have recently completed their degrees or are about to graduate are encouraged to apply.
- Academic Performance: Good academic performance and a demonstrated passion for aviation will be considered major advantages. A strong foundation in aeronautics principles and engineering concepts is essential.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and solution-seeking is necessary. The candidate should also be comfortable working with simulation tools and programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB.
- Interpersonal Skills: The ability to work well within a team, communicate effectively, and present ideas clearly is crucial. Applicants must also have good writing skills, particularly in the area of technical reporting and documentation.
- Other Competencies: Analytical thinking, customer service orientation, networking and liaison, numerical reasoning, and planning and organizing skills are key competencies for success in this role.
- Travel Requirements: The candidate should be willing to travel to clients and industry manufacturing sites as part of their responsibilities.
- Citizenship and Security Clearance: Only South African citizens are eligible to apply, and the selected candidate will need to be eligible for security clearance.
What’s in It for You?
The CSIR provides a dynamic, forward-thinking work environment where graduates can thrive and develop their skills. In addition to gaining invaluable work experience, successful candidates will enjoy a number of benefits, including:
- Flexible Work Arrangement: The CSIR offers a hybrid work setup, allowing employees to balance work and personal life effectively.
- Learning and Development: As a Graduate in Training, you will have access to continuous learning and development opportunities, helping you grow professionally.
- Competitive Remuneration: The CSIR offers competitive, market-related salary packages, which include pension fund contributions, risk insurance, and medical scheme coverage.
- Employee Recognition: The CSIR values its employees and rewards their contributions and accomplishments through the prestigious CSIR Excellence Awards.
The organisation’s commitment to learning and growth ensures that graduates not only gain practical skills but also build a solid foundation for a successful career in the field of aeronautical engineering.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply for this exciting opportunity by submitting their application through the CSIR’s recruitment portal. The job reference ID for this position is 314270. Please note that feedback will be given only to shortlisted candidates.
If you are a recent graduate with a passion for aviation and aerospace technologies, this is the perfect stepping stone to launch your career in aeronautical engineering. The CSIR is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Act.
For further information or inquiries, you can contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre directly at 012 841 4774.
Check also: Land Bank Learnership Programmes 2025
