Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer Job Vacancy in Lilongwe, Malawi – Aviation Technology & Infrastructure
Job Description
Position:Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer
Company:Thales Group
Location:Lilongwe, Malawi
Experience:5-8 years
Education:Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Telecommunications
Employment Type:Full-time
Industry:Aviation Technology & Infrastructure
Department:Engineering & Technical Services
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Thales Group is a global technology leader specializing in aerospace, defense, transportation, and digital identity and security. With a presence in over 68 countries and a workforce of more than 81,000 employees, Thales is committed to building a future we can all trust. In the aviation sector, Thales is a world-renowned provider of advanced air traffic management (ATM) systems, navigation, surveillance, and communication solutions that ensure the safety, efficiency, and capacity of airspace worldwide. Our systems guide thousands of flights safely to their destinations every day. Thales has been a key partner in modernizing aviation infrastructure across Africa, supporting the continent’s growing connectivity and economic development. Our commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability drives our work in delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the unique challenges of the African aviation landscape. This role in Lilongwe represents a strategic opportunity to contribute to the enhancement of Malawi’s national airspace infrastructure, supporting safer and more efficient air travel for the region.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer to join our team in Lilongwe, Malawi. This critical role involves the installation, configuration, testing, maintenance, and technical support of sophisticated Thales air traffic management and control systems at Kamuzu International Airport and associated remote sites. The engineer will ensure the highest levels of system availability, performance, and reliability, directly contributing to the safety and efficiency of Malawi’s airspace. This position offers a unique Job Vacancy in Malawi for a technical professional to work with world-class technology in a dynamic and vital sector. The successful candidate will be part of a global network of experts, receiving continuous training and support while playing a hands-on role in maintaining critical national infrastructure. This is a premier opportunity for those seeking Career Opportunities in Malawi within a high-tech international environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform installation, configuration, integration, and commissioning of Thales Air Traffic Control (ATC) and related subsystems, including communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) equipment.
- Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance on ATC systems, including radar data processing systems, voice communication systems (VCS), and flight data processing systems to ensure 24/7 operational readiness.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot complex system faults, utilizing technical manuals, diagnostic tools, and software to restore functionality swiftly and minimize downtime.
- Provide on-site and remote technical support to air traffic control operators and maintenance teams, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
- Maintain accurate technical documentation, including maintenance logs, configuration records, and incident reports in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
- Coordinate with Thales regional support centers and engineering teams for escalated technical issues and system upgrades.
- Plan and execute system software and hardware upgrades, patches, and lifecycle management activities.
- Conduct routine system performance monitoring and analysis, proposing and implementing optimization measures.
- Deliver technical training and knowledge transfer to local customer technical personnel.
- Ensure all activities adhere to strict safety, security, and quality assurance protocols as per international aviation standards (ICAO, EUROCAE).
Required Skills
- Strong technical expertise in electronics, telecommunications, and computer systems, particularly in a real-time, high-availability environment.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware (servers, workstations, network equipment, RF systems) and software (Linux/Unix, Windows, proprietary ATC applications).
- Excellent understanding of IP networking, network security, and system integration principles.
- Ability to read and interpret complex system architecture diagrams, electrical schematics, and technical manuals.
- Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
- Effective communication skills to interact with a diverse range of stakeholders, from technical teams to air traffic controllers.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities independently.
- Commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
- Willingness to be on-call and respond to emergency situations outside of standard working hours.
Education
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc./B.Eng.) in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or a closely related field is required. Professional certifications in networking (e.g., CCNA), specific aviation technologies, or project management (e.g., PMP) are considered significant assets. Continuous learning is a core value at Thales, and support for further education and certification is provided.
Experience
A minimum of 5 to 8 years of hands-on experience in the installation, maintenance, and support of critical communication, IT, or aviation systems. Prior experience with Air Traffic Management (ATM), Air Traffic Control (ATC), radar, or aviation navigation systems is highly desirable. Experience working in a customer-facing technical support or field engineering role within a regulated industry (aviation, defense, telecom) is essential. Experience in project execution and working within international teams is advantageous.
Benefits
- Competitive expatriate-level salary package with performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive international health, life, and disability insurance.
- Generous annual leave allowance and public holidays.
- Significant opportunities for professional development and global career progression within Thales.
- Exposure to cutting-edge technology and participation in major aviation infrastructure projects.
- Housing allowance and relocation assistance (if applicable).
- Continuous technical and leadership training programs.
- Being part of a global leader with a strong commitment to ethics and corporate responsibility.
Training
- Intensive initial training on specific Thales ATC product lines and technologies, potentially at Thales training centers abroad.
- Ongoing technical updates and new product training.
- Training on local regulatory and safety procedures for the Malawian aviation sector.
- Professional skills development in areas such as project management and customer relations.
- Access to Thales’ global digital learning platform and knowledge repositories.
Working Environment
This role is based at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, with occasional travel to remote equipment sites across Malawi. The work involves a combination of office-based planning and hands-on technical work in control rooms, equipment shelters, and tower cabs. The engineer must be prepared to work in a safety-critical environment where precision and adherence to procedures are paramount. The role may require working outside standard hours during system upgrades or critical fault resolution. Thales fosters a collaborative, innovative, and safety-first culture, providing the tools and global support network needed to succeed.
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their application through the Thales Group careers portal. Please ensure your application includes a detailed CV, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, and copies of academic and professional certificates. The recruitment process will involve a review of applications, followed by technical and HR interviews, which may be conducted virtually. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We encourage all eligible professionals seeking Jobs in Malawi in the engineering sector to apply. For more Employment in Malawi listings, you can explore regional portals.
https://nigeriajobsearch.com/vacancy-in-nigeria/
Equal Opportunity Statement
Thales Group is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all qualified Malawian nationals and residents. Thales is dedicated to supporting Hiring in Malawi and building local technical capacity in the aviation sector.
