Why Work for Us

One observatory, two telescopes, three continents: be part of one of the most exciting scientific projects of the century.

At the SKAO, formally known as the SKA Observatory, we’re working on one of the biggest scientific endeavours of the 21st century. As a global collaboration of Member States, our mission is to build and operate cutting-edge radio telescopes to transform our understanding of the Universe, and deliver benefits to society through global collaboration and innovation.

Our purpose-built, eco-friendly headquarters are at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory World Heritage Site near Manchester, UK, while our telescope arrays - the two most advanced radio telescopes on Earth - will be constructed in Australia and South Africa.

As an intergovernmental organisation and one of the world’s largest science facilities, with a truly global membership, we take our responsibilities seriously. Sustainability and respect to all our communities are at the heart of how we operate, driven by a commitment to fundamental science and technology.

Underpinning it all are our values. The SKAO is a place where everyone is treated with fairness and respect, where Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is embedded within the DNA of the

Observatory and its staff, where new ideas are allowed to thrive, and collaborations with global partners, local stakeholders, and other scientific facilities are embraced.

Join an international team

The SKAO brings together a wealth of the world’s finest scientists, engineers, policy makers and specialists in many other fields, collaborating in a dynamic, inclusive environment. 

  • We are a fast-growing organisation with international scope, working with partners in 20+ countries around the world.

  • Staff at the SKAO Global HQ represent more than 20 different nationalities.

  • We pride ourselves on fostering a friendly work atmosphere where national traditions are celebrated.

  • Our staff enjoy a high degree of responsibility and independence, and many undertake international travel (dependent on role and the global travel situation).

  • We actively support continuous professional development, through providing interesting, challenging roles and opportunities.