Science Communications Officer

(Part - time contract –5 hours per day)

(Contract position until July 2021)

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires a highly motivated individual to lead the implementation of the Natural Science Collections Facility communication activities, manage and produce various materials and ensure appropriate dissemination of these.

Requirements

This position requires a 3-year degree in biology, followed by course/s in science communication/journalism/social media or a 3-year degree in journalism/media studies, and a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the following: Producing articles in electronic or print media on biological science and/or research related issues; Social media - posting items on Facebook page; Managing a Twitter account.

Website content maintenance. Experience in working with WordPress websites, compiling newsletters, and graphic design would be an advantage.

The successful candidate must demonstrate the following: ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations; problem solving skills; and the ability to communicate at all levels both verbally and in writing. The incumbent must have excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools (MS project or similar) as well as be in possession of a valid Code B (unendorsed) driver’s license with one year practical driving experience.

Key responsibilities:

• Production of popular articles related to natural science collections and the work of the NSCF for posting on the NSCF website and other media
• Regular updating of the NSCF communication media – including regular posting of relevant materials on the NSCF Facebook page, Twitter account and on NSCF website; general maintenance of the NSCF communication platforms
• Produce the bimonthly NSCF newsletter
• Develop and implement mechanisms to monitor and report on impact of communication efforts.

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary package of R 305 072.97

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 skills test will be conducted as part of the selection process.

3) Applicants must also provide the full names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of at least three referees.

4) Failure to submit the requested information may result in your application not being considered.

Please do not apply online for this position. Please send your application to: recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za.

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 Stephen Mahlangu on 012 843 5217 or, preferably, forward the completed application form, a letter, certified copies of qualification, ID, drivers licence and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za or fax 012 843 5222. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Assistant Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X101, Pretoria, 0001.

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.