Biodiversity Data Analyst

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires a motivated individual with proven ability to manage the analysis and remediation of data from SANBI and its Data Partners, through the application of standards and practices that support the collection, structure/format, coding, review, entry, validation, editing and reporting of biodiversity data, through approaches that maximizes the opportunity for capacity development in data management.

The successful candidate requires a degree in Natural Science or Computer Science, or other relevant qualification, enhanced by at least five years’ working experience in analysis and remediation of data, as well as developing methods and procedures for complex data management. The candidate must demonstrate familiarity with the standards and protocols developed by the Biodiversity Information Standards (TDWG) and advanced data-analysis and statistical packages.

The incumbent must demonstrate exceptional proficiency in MS Excel, MS Access and familiarity with standard web-based software systems including (but limited to) SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, XML and JAVA. Knowledge of ESRI GIS software will be an added advantage. The candidate must be in possession of a valid (unendorsed) Code B drivers’ license with at least one year’s practical driving experience.

The appointee will be responsible for:

• Develop and maintain databases, data analytics and complementary strategies that improve the quality of SANBI’s data holdings;
• Manage the acquisition of data from data partners and secondary data sources;
• Manage all Export, Transform and Load (ETL) processes across all relevant systems;
• Identify, analyse and interpret trends and patterns in datasets;
• Manage staff and develop scientific and technical training skills, and mentorship.

In addition to the aforementioned requirements, the successful candidate must demonstrate a good spoken and written command of English, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Please note

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

2) A competency test may 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 may result in your application not being considered.

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 currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Mr Siviwe Kotyi on (021) 7998636/8800 or preferably, forward the completed application form, a letter and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za or fax 0865899569.

Postal applications are to be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources,
South African National Biodiversity Institute,
Private Bag X7,
Claremont,
7735.

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 may consider their applications unsuccessful.