Senior Specialist: Marine Spatial Analyst

The South African National Biodiversity Institute is looking for a self-motivated individual to provide technical spatial mapping and analysis support to the Directorate: Biodiversity Assessment, specifically the Marine Programme. This support includes generating, sourcing and managing marine spatial data, undertaking spatial analyses, designing spatial workflows, developing Geographical Information Systems (GIS) products for marine projects that have a spatial component, building capacity in spatial analysis and Geographical Information Systems and communicating the purpose, process and outputs of marine biodiversity spatial data, as part of the marine component of the National Biodiversity Assessment.

This position requires a postgraduate degree in Marine Science / Life Sciences / Natural Sciences / Ecology / Biology Sciences or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 9. A postgraduate degree in Marine Science / Life Sciences / Natural Sciences / Ecology / Biology Sciences or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 10 will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 8 years’ relevant experience, of which 4 years should be in spatial analysis or the first line management of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) projects

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: comprehensive knowledge of spatial and non-spatial data analysis and skills, including data collection, data management, data flow, spatial analysis and cartography; extensive experience in marine biodiversity mapping, assessment, and planning; evidence of experience in technical analysis in GIS or using spatial packages of R or python; extensive experience in managing spatial projects; understanding of research processes and outputs; advanced knowledge of the science-policy interface; advanced knowledge of biodiversity conservation priorities; in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation;  extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management; advanced experience in the implementation of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, and regulatory framework relevant to biodiversity conservation; project management and coordination skills; evidence of a network of relationships in the South African marine science sector; advance knowledge for planning and organising, and statistical reports writing skills; in-depth organisational, analytical, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; 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 is essential.

Basic remote sensing expertise will be advantageous. Familiarity with ESRI packages will be advantageous. Professional registrations with SACNASP and/or PLATO will be advantageous. Evidence of the ability to build capacity / provide training in technical spatial and non-spatial analysis will also be advantageous.  The candidate may 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.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• 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 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;
• Provide data analysis and management mentoring and capacity building within the division and support other divisions in SANBI through various fora; and
• Communicate 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 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.

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.