Current Jobs at South African National Biodiversity Institute

• The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated, professional and responsible person to contribute to departmental strategic objectives through leading and managing a section of the zoo which consists of a specific group of animal taxa according to best animal husbandry and welfare practices.
• This position requires a degree in Zoology, Nature Conservation, Game Ranch Management, Animal Health or equivalent qualification at NQF 7. A relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent qualification at NQF 8, will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years of work experience in the relevant field, 3 years of which should be in a supervisory position/s.
• The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: advanced specialised knowledge of the animal welfare, care and ethical requirements of the taxa concerned; in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation strategies;  comprehensive knowledge of legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation, organisational finance, project management, procurement, human resources management, and ethical corporate governance; a good understanding of the World Zoo and Aquaria Conservation and Animal Welfare Strategies; a good understanding of the South African National Standards for Zoo and Aquarium Practice; must have a good understanding of Health and Safety in the work place; proven ability to work with diverse team under pressure whilst being quality, cost and safety conscious; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; The candidate must be in the possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience as well as a valid Class V (or higher) Commercial Dive qualification.  Candidates must be willing to be trained as a Commercial Dive Supervisor.

 Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Lead the development of operational plans and contribute to the development of strategy for the animal collection and conservation directorate;
• Build an engaging animal collection display of conservation importance that increases public science awareness and improves visitor experience;
• Grow the NZG profile in wildlife conservation by advancing knowledge and action in sustainable biodiversity management and providing leadership in welfare and care practices of wildlife in human care;
• Manage outputs such as the daily husbandry and welfare activities, section projects, animal capture operations, infrastructure projects, administration requirements and public needs;
• Manage a team in respect of outputs, staff relations, performance management, mentoring and skills development; and
• Support governance, risk and compliance though budget management, asset and equipment management and health and safety requirements relating to the assigned section.

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• This position requires a degree in Horticulture or equivalent qualification NQF 7. A relevant postgraduate qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years of work experience in relevant field, 4 years of which should be in first line management position(s) practising as a Horticulturist. Experience must also include management and supervising operational line management functions which include a team of professional Horticulturists with their teams and support services.
• The following competencies are required of the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive experience and knowledge of nature-based tourism, business management principles, conservation, horticulture, nursery infrastructure maintenance, business administration, and training and development; comprehensive knowledge, understanding, and experience in national and global biodiversity conservation including broad understanding of national and global botanical garden management; extensive knowledge about legislation, policies, procedures, process, practices, systems, and frameworks related to biodiversity conservation and botanical garden management; advanced knowledge on management of organisational finances and budgeting processes and principles, human resources requirements, policies, procedures and processes, corporate governance principles and corporate governance and compliance requirements; excellent project and programme management skills, proven ability to work with diverse team whilst under pressure being quality, cost, health, and safety conscious; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; 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 (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Provide strategic leadership in the development, implementation and maintenance of horticultural operations of the National Botanical Garden, their living collections, associated estates, facilities and infrastructure;
• Ensure that there is proper governance within the National Botanical Garden, effective budget management and project management;
• Develop and maintain strategic partnerships;
• Ensure effective contract management;
• Improve workplace health, safety and security; and
• Drive Human Capital Development and Transformation within the Garden.

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• This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification at NQF 7. A relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent degree at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years of work experience in the relevant field, 3 years of which should be in supervisory position(s).
• The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: Possess specialist knowledge of ecology, nature conservation, natural biodiversity, ecology, indigenous plants & animals as well as current environmental management practices, sound knowledge of interpretation principles and practices, sound knowledge of learning processes, sound knowledge of graphic design techniques & principles, knowledge of signage production & printing processes, proficient in scientific research methodology, proficient in people management & development project management and financial report writing; advanced planning, organizing, problem solving, and interpersonal skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook, Corel draw) is essential. The possession of a valid driver’s licence (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential. 

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Ensure garden interpretation (Planning, Research, Development, Language editing & Production);
• Facilitate the promotion of garden with environmental interpretation focus (Includes photography & supplying of images, writing & presenting of articles, talks etc.);
• Ensure the provision of visitor & information services;
• Maintain effective people & financial management; and
• Manage Provision of Risk, Health & Safety Services.