Senior Technician: Biodiversity Evidence

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to provide technical support for detection and eradication of emerging invasive species in the region through managing field trips, data-co-ordination, awareness raising, scientific literature searches and administration.

This position requires a national diploma in Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification at NQF 6 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field or a degree in Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification at NQF 7 with 2 years of work experience in the relevant field.  Postgraduate qualification in Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification with NQF 8 will be an added advantage.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: in depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation; knowledge about legislation pertaining to invasion biology, project management knowledge and skills; knowledge about government human resources, procurement and financial management policies: good  interpersonal, time management, and problem solving skills; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written); 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.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Support the regional and departmental units to achieve their outcomes;
• Provide assistance to research projects;
• Execute specimen collection duties;
• Effective management of the plant spotter database; and
• Execute administrative duties diligently.

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 may 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 Mr Stephen Mahlangu on 012 843 5217 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 recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources Operations
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X101
Pretoria
0001

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 must consider their applications unsuccessful.