This role is 35 hours per week and is based at the SKAO Headquarters at Jodrell Bank, Cheshire, UK.

We welcome applications from candidates of all nationalities, especially those from member countries. However, for this role 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.

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.

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.

Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties

• Provide secretariat and administrative support to internal and external meetings including:
  • Support all aspects of meeting preparation and administration - arrange meetings, coordinate document circulation, and help to set up meeting rooms and tidying up after use.
  • Take meeting minutes, questions/answers and drafting summaries.
  • Provide support at SKAO events, meetings, etc as required.
  • Support expense payments for delegates, to ensure timely reimbursements.
  • Cover for Reception, responses to office enquiries and general administration support.
  • Update documents which monitor the Secretariat function.
  • Report to and work on a day-to-day basis under the guidance of the Council Secretary.
  • Coordinate with Member and Observer country representatives about the various governance meetings.

These responsibilities are not exhaustive. A flexible approach and willingness to adapt to unexpected and changing needs, as well as performing further general administrative and other tasks, is essential.

Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Fluent in the English language, both written and spoken to provide clear, concise and timely communications.
• Competent, effective minute-taking skills.
• Experience in an office environment.
• A flexible team player who is adaptable to change and able to work under own initiative.
• Ability to maintain absolute discretion.
• Good interpersonal skills with a customer-oriented approach.
• Good IT skills, especially use of MS Word.
• Completed secondary school education.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Good knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Touch-typing and/or shorthand/speed writing skills.
• Meeting coordination across multiple countries.
• Experience of working in a busy office environment.
• Completed or working towards a governance/secretarial/administration qualification.

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.