Senior Specialist 2: Spatial Analyst Ecological Infrastructure

The South African National Biodiversity Institute requires a motivated, professional, and responsible team player to provide technical spatial mapping and analysis support to SANBI in its work on water-related ecological infrastructure for the Ecological Infrastructure for Water Security (EI4WS) project.

This position requires a degree in Natural or Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology or Botany  or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. A postgraduate degree or equivalent degree at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years of work experience in the relevant field, 4 years of which should be spatial analysis or first line of management of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Projects of which 4 years of which should be first line management position (s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive experience working with spatial data layers related to water-related ecological infrastructure (such as the National Wetland Map, national river network layer, and data on strategic water source areas); comprehensive knowledge of spatial and non-spatial data analysis skills including data collection, data management, data flow, spatial analysis and cartography; evidence of experience in technical analysis skills in GIS or using spatial packages of R or python is essential; extensive experience in leading and managing spatial projects; understanding of research processes and outputs; knowledge of the science-policy interface; knowledge of biodiversity conservation priorities; in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation; knowledge of legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation; project management knowledge, coordination and skills; ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations, and highly effective verbal and written communication capabilities; Be in possession of a valid unendorsed driver’s license, as well as be willing to travel and participate in research in the field.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Source, develop and manage spatial data;
• Undertake advanced spatial analyses to support ecological infrastructure work at SANBI;
• Execute Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technical support to EI4WS project and its stakeholders related to mapping ecological infrastructure features and consolidating ecological infrastructure maps;
• Undertake mentoring and capacity building on spatial analysis and GIS data management for freshwater ecosystem mapping; and
• Interpret spatial information for science communication.

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.

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 authorized 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 more 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 7998878/8800 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 Operations
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X7
Claremont
7700.

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.