Technician: Species Recovery at South African National Biodiversity Institute

Reference Number: GKBC/2023/012

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to effectively co-ordinate the botanical restoration component of the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership (MSBP) Karoo Biome Extension Programme, responding to the Illegal plant poaching crisis facing South Africa. The successful candidate will conduct research and implement best practices species recovery protocols for threatened species in the Karoo and Fynbos Biomes, develop species recovery templates/guides for threatened species, and implement species recovery projects in collaboration with Botanical Gardens, land managers, nature reserves and private landowners.

This position requires a Grade 12, job specific qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 5 years of work experience in the relevant field or a national diploma in Horticulture, Natural Sciences, or equivalent qualification at NQF 6 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field. An advanced diploma or a degree in Horticulture, Natural Sciences, or equivalent qualification at NQF 7 will be an added advantage.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position. plant identification skills; advanced knowledge and experience in species recovery and seed collection will be advantageous; demonstrate a high level of attention to detail, and exceptional accuracy with capturing data; knowledge of plant diversity and taxonomy; excellent written and verbal communication skills, excellent planning, organising, problem solving and analytical skills; highly motivated individual that has an ability to work under pressure with a diverse team whilst being quality, cost and safety conscious; and advanced computer literacy and must be proficient in MS Excel; The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience will be required.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Species Recovery planning and implementation;
• Conservation, Research and Development;
• Millennium Seed Bank Partnership Team Support;
• Support to integrated conservation activities and,
• Project administration.