Project Clerk

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated, efficient, and enthusiastic person to provide support in conducting threatened plant monitoring in the Biodiversity Assessments Directorate, as a node of the Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers (CREW) citizen science programme, by processing data and specimens, conducting fieldwork, and assisting in the implementation of the National Strategy for Plant Conservation.

This position requires a diploma or advanced certificate in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 6. A degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 7 will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in threatened species environment, with 1 year experience in project management.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation; extensive project and time management skills; advance plant identification skills including understanding of taxonomy and plant ecology; ability to engage with students, interns, and citizen scientists professionally; comprehensive knowledge of biodiversity monitoring techniques; comprehensive knowledge of biodiversity stewardship and conservation interventions; first aid knowledge is essential; advanced knowledge of Geographical Information System (GIS) Spatial Analysis will be an added advantage; ability to work under pressure; extensive experience in the implementation of legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks relevant to project management and threatened species environment is essential; advance knowledge for planning and organising, and report writing skills; in-depth organisational, analytical, 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).

The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key performance responsibilities include:

• Process and manage the CREW data processing and specimens systems;
• Develop plant identification resource materials to assist in CREW monitoring activities;
• Support the Node Manager with the implementation of the CREW Programme;
• Coordinate plant monitoring with CREW groups in the CFR Node; and
• Assist the CREW Programme’s marketing and media projects.

Application procedure

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

2) A competency test will 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 shall 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 be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail to: recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za.

Postal applications must 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.

Enquiries:
Ms Glynnis Webb
Tel.: +27 (0)21 799 8635/8800