Senior Specialist 2: Marine Spatial Analyst

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivate, qualified and experienced individual to provide technical data spatial analysis support to the Marine Spatial Programme in the Biodiversity Assessments Directorate.

The appointment requires the candidate to be in possession of a postgraduate degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification with NQF 9.  This must be enhanced by 8 years’ relevant experience, of which 4 years should be in the first line management of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) projects.

The successful candidate must have comprehensive knowledge of spatial and non-spatial data analysis skills including data collection, data management, data flow, spatial analysis and cartography. The successful candidate must also have:

• Extensive experience in leading and managing spatial projects and understanding of research processes and outputs
• Knowledge for science-policy interface and of biodiversity conservation priorities
• In-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation and legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation
• South African Council for Professional and Technical Surveyors (PLATO) and/ or The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) membership
• Technical analysis skills of GIS or using spatial packages and Project management knowledge and skills.
• Evidence of the ability to build capacity / provide training in technical spatial and non-spatial analysis will also be advantageous.
• a valid Code B driver’s license, as well as be willing to travel and participate in research at sea.
• The ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations, and highly effective verbal and written communication capabilities are including project coordination and familiarity with ESRI packages will be advantageous.
• The ability to support marine work for both mainland South Africa and the sub-Antarctic and may need to support cross-realm components of the National Biodiversity Assessment including the coastal and sub-Antarctic aspects.
• Experience in marine biodiversity mapping, assessment, and planning is highly essential.

Key responsibilities:

• Source, generate (capture data, create secondary data), and manage (collate, store, secure or disseminate) relevant marine spatial data;
• Undertake advanced spatial and non-spatial analyses to support biodiversity mapping, assessment and monitoring work at SANBI, including the development and computation of indicators;
• Assist in design and management of data for projects that have a spatial component;
• Provide GIS technical support to stakeholders relating to biodiversity assessment and monitoring needs, including ecosystem mapping and technical support to the ecosystem classification committees - managing the iterative improvement of product and versioning;
• Data analysis and management mentoring and capacity building within the division and support to other divisions in SANBI through various fora;
• Communication of biodiversity spatial outputs through graphics, maps and presentations.

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, 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 Kaashiefa Bassier on (021) 799 8878/8800 or preferably, 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.