SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory. We encourage applications from under-represented groups such as women and individuals with disabilities, as well as open conversations during the recruitment process in relation to any specific requirements.

There may be occasions where this role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.

We welcome applications from candidates of all nationalities, especially those from member countries. However, for this role visa and relocation support will not be available and applicants must be able to comply with the terms of a UK based local contract, details of which may be accessed on SKAO's recruitment portal.

This is a fixed term position with a duration of up to 1 year.

Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties

• Coordinating and scheduling meetings, workshops and training sessions across various timezones.
• Maintaining shared project calendars.
• Recording meeting minutes and actions.
• Tracking and following-up on outstanding action items.
• Coordinating and maintaining shared workspaces in tools such as Confluence and Jira.
• Formatting and reviewing documentation and presentations.
• Analysing and manipulating data to facilitate decision-making and support project processes.
• Supporting process improvement activities.
• Opportunity for occasional international travel to support events.

The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and a flexible approach and willingness to adapt to unexpected and changing needs and priorities as well as performing further general administrative tasks is essential.

Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Experience in an administrative support role (typically at least two years).
• Experience in coordinating events, workshops and/or training sessions.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Good oral and written communication skills in English.
• Good interpersonal skills with a friendly and customer-oriented approach.
• Good attention to detail.
• Be a flexible team player who is adaptable to change and able to work under own initiative.
• Ability and willingness to learn new skills or systems such as Google docs/sheets, Confluence, Miro, Jira, Slack and others as required.
• Good IT skills, including use of MS Word, Outlook and experience of hosting video conference meetings.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• An administration qualification.
• Experience of working in a multicultural environment across international boundaries and time zones.
• Experience of working in a project environment.
• Proficient with software tools that enable collaboration such as Google docs/sheets, Confluence, Miro, Jira, Slack

Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement

SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.

Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.

Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.

Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.

SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.

The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.