Job Description

Horticulturists x 2 - National Botanical Gardens Division

(1) Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden

Reference Number: GTHO/001/2024

(2) KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden

Reference Number: GKZN/002/2024

Salary commensurate with a range of inputs and outputs in terms of the SANBI career ladder for horticulturists.

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

1) An application form (obtainable from SANBI website: www.sanbi.org 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 SANBIs 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 SANBIs 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 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.

Postal applications must be addressed to: Assistant Director: Human Resources Operations, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X101, Pretoria, 0001.

Closing Date: 07 March 2024

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.

This position requires a National or Advanced Diploma or Degree in Horticulture, or equivalent and relevant qualification with NQF 6 or 7. A postgraduate qualification or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position requires 4 years work experience when having a National Diploma and 2 years when having an Advanced Diploma or a Degree in Horticulture or relevant field at NQF 7.

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 drivers 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.

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