Job Description

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individuals to provide horticultural and conservation services to the Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden.

This position requires a degree in Horticulture, or equivalent qualification at NQF 7 with 2 years post qualification and relevant working experience; OR a degree in Horticulture or equivalent qualification at NQF 7 with 4 years, including relevant working experience prior to completing a horticultural qualification. A postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: excellent knowledge and understanding of horticulture and conservation are essential; extensive knowledge of legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks related to horticultural and conservation services is essential; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; ability to work under pressure whilst being safety conscious; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. The possession of a valid driver's licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Participate in Garden planning and development;
• Coordinate the curation of living collections;
• Promote and conduct horticultural research and development; and
• Participate and promote plant conservation and to work in collaboration with other role players.

Application procedure:

1) An application form must accompany the CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, and certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and relevant experience will not be considered).

2) A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.

3) Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.

4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall result in your application not being considered.

Personal Information will be processed by SANBI for purposes of assessing your suitability for the advertised position. SANBI may also share your personal information including special personal information with service providers or third parties, both within the Republic of South Africa and in other jurisdictions, to carry out verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. In this regard, by virtue of your application, you acknowledge that SANBI's authorized verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information including special personal information to conduct background screening, verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. For more information, kindly refer to SANBI's website.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Ms Martha Pilusa on Tel: +27 (0)12 843 5252 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail to

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Assistant Director: Human Resources Operations
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X101
Pretoria
0001

Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI. If no response has been received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates must consider their applications unsuccessful.

Closes: Friday, 1 March 2024
Job type: Permanent
Salary: Salary commensurate with a range of inputs and outputs
Location: Pietermaritzburg

ABOUT SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) contributes to South Africa's sustainable development by facilitating access to biodiversity data, generating information and knowledge, building capacity, providing policy advice, showcasing and conserving biodiversity in its national botanical and zoological gardens.

SANBI