Geographical Information Systems Specialist (Contract position – 3 years)

Ecosystem Accounting

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) has an exciting career opportunity available to an appropriately qualified and experienced person who will provide technical spatial analysis support to the Directorate.

This appointment requires a minimum of 5 years’ relevant biodiversity experience and a relevant post-graduate degree at Honours level in environmental/biological sciences with a GIS element. A Master’s degree will be an added advantage. A comprehensive GIS skill set (data collection, data management, spatial analysis and cartography; including basic remote sensing expertise) is essential. Familiarity of ESRI packages is preferred, as is professional registrations such as SACNASP and/or PLATO. Evidence of the ability to build capacity / provide training in technical spatial analysis will be highly advantageous. Furthermore the suitable candidate must be in possession of a valid code B driver’s license with one year’s driving experience, as well as be willing to travel. The ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations, and highly effective verbal and written communication capabilities are essential. Good project coordination and networking skills will be advantageous.

Key responsibilities include:

• Source (gather), generate (capture data, create secondary data), critically assess quality and manage relevant spatial data;
• Undertake advanced spatial analyses to support ecosystems accounting work at SANBI, including the development and computation of relevant ecosystem accounts and related indicators;
• Provide GIS technical support to stakeholders relating to ecosystem accounting needs, including mapping of ecosystem condition, managing time series of spatial data for ecosystem accounting, use of statistical survey data in spatial analyses, use of customised ecosystem accounting software;
• Provide mentoring and capacity building on spatial analysis and GIS data management for ecosystem accounting in SANBI and partner organisations;
• Report and communicate methods and findings undertaken in spatial analyses for ecosystem accounts.

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary package of R609 229.41.

Please do not apply online for this position. Applications should be forwarded to:  recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za

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 Ms Zena Appollis on (021) 799 8647/8800 or preferably, apply on line at www.sanbi.org or 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 the 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.