Horticulturist – 2X Positions at South African National Biodiversity Institute

Job Description

Reference Number: GKBC/2026/006

• The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for passionate and self-motivated individuals to fulfill a key horticultural and conservation role by leading the development and maintenance of the General Gardens and herbaceous perennials display garden areas and associated living collections, as well as the Succulent displays in both the garden and conservatory areas and associated living collection at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
• These positions require a national diploma in Horticulture or relevant and equivalent qualification at NQF 6 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field or an advanced diploma or degree in Horticulture or relevant and equivalent qualification with NQF 7 with 2 years of work experience in the relevant field. A postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or relevant and equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. 
• The position is responsible for curating and cultivating  a wide range of Succulent genera or South African plants and herbaceous perennials with the following key competencies for the candidate to be successful in these positions: excellent knowledge and understanding of indigenous horticulture maintenance and conservation are essential; knowledge of propagation procedures, protocols and processes, practical experience and knowledge of propagation facilities, knowledge of field collecting and plant introduction and care, competent in long term curation and maintenance of living plant collections, understanding landscaping using fynbos and natural design elements, leading and managing a team of conservation workers in the garden and nursery collections, knowledgeable and experience with working with conservation stakeholders, 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 with MS tools will be advantageous.
• The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience. 

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Conduct garden display and living collections operations planning, maintenance and development;
• Lead the management of people and maintain high levels of performance;
• Manage the coordination of curation of living collections in both the garden and collections nursery;
• Promote & participate in horticultural, plant conservation, and research projects; and
• Conduct planning, coordination and implementation of projects to promote the mission of SANBI and Kirstenbosch.
• Salary commensurate with a range of inputs and outputs in terms of the SANBI career ladder for horticulturists.

Closing Date 15 July 2026