Senior Horticulturist x 2

The South African National Biodiversity Institute is looking for a highly motivated individual to provide horticultural and conservation services to the production nursery at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

This position requires a degree in Horticulture or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years’ experience in a relevant field of horticulture, 3 years of which should be in supervisory position(s) as a practising Horticulturist.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive knowledge of conservation whilst practising as Horticulturist; comprehensive experience in the implementation of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices and frameworks related to conservation is essential; advanced planning, organising, analytical, problem solving, and interpersonal skills; ability to work under pressure whilst being service focus and be safety conscious; excellent communication (both verbal and written); 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 nationally and internationally is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Conduct nursery planning, development, and maintenance;
• Ensure accurate stock and record keeping;
• Attend to curation of living collections;
• Attend to people management and human capital development;
• Conduct horticultural research and development;
• Attend to plant conservation and collaboration; and
• Render customer services and financial management.

Please Note:
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. 

Personal Information will be processed by SANBI for purposes of assessing your suitability for the advertised position. SANBI may also share your personal information including special personal information with service providers or third parties, both within the Republic of South Africa and in other jurisdictions, to carry out verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. In this regard, by virtue of your application, you acknowledge that SANBI’s authorised verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information including special personal information to conduct background screening, verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. For information, kindly refer to SANBI’s website.

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.

Contact Ms Kaashiefa Bassier on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8878/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity. 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.