Senior Spatial Biodiversity Analyst

Description

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) offers an exciting career opportunity to an appropriately qualified and experienced person who will provide high level technical support to the National Biodiversity Assessment and National Biodiversity Monitoring Framework with regards to spatial biodiversity analysis and biodiversity indicator development and computation.

Requirements

Appointment requires a relevant post-graduate degree in the Natural Sciences at Masters level (PhD preferable), enhanced by minimum 5 years relevant experience. A publication track record in the environmental / biodiversity sector would be an advantage.

A comprehensive GIS skill set (data collection, data management, spatial analysis and cartography; including basic remote sensing expertise) is essential, as is basic statistical knowledge. Professional registrations such as SACNASP and/or PLATO preferred, as is systematic biodiversity planning experience.

The ability to build capacity in technical spatial analysis is required. Possession of a valid Code B driver’s license, as well as be willing to travel, is essential.  The incumbent must have the ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations, and highly effective verbal and written communication capabilities are essential.

Preferred skills and experience include: problem solving, project management, input on biodiversity policy, good networking and stakeholder engagement, general office management (finances, staff, procurement, etc.), and coordination/facilitation of meetings/workshops.

Key responsibilities include:

• Provide high level technical support to the National Biodiversity Assessment and National Biodiversity Monitoring Framework. In particular with spatial biodiversity analysis and biodiversity indicator development and computation;
• Support and, where necessary, lead the spatial work undertaken by the realm-specific ecosystem classification committees: Marine, Estuarine, Wetland, River and Terrestrial;
• Coordinate ecosystem assessment across all realms; specifically the red-listing of ecosystems according to South African and IUCN classification systems (including supervising the work of junior ecosystem assessment scientist), and lead the ecosystem protection level assessments;
• Provide support to the Biodiversity Information Management and Planning Directorate with regards to ecosystem database management, ecosystem accounting and biodiversity planning processes;
• Support relevant ecosystem-related monitoring processes as described in SANBI’s National Biodiversity Monitoring Framework;
• Lead training in technical spatial analysis for junior staff at SANBI;
• Assist researchers at SANBI with spatial analysis and mapping tasks as required

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary package of R779 295.00. 

Please Note: 1) An application form (obtainable from our Offices or SANBI website www.sanbi.org 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 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 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 Glynnis Webb on (021) 7998635/8800 or preferably, forward the completed application form, a letter, concise CV, and accompanying documents 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.

Closing Date: Thursday, 17 May 2018

Candidates are expected to be available for interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI.