Specialist 1: Plant Red List

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to contribute to SANBI’s monitoring mandate by assessing the status of plant species in Southern Africa and supporting other countries in the region via training and lessons exchange.

This position requires a Degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. Postgraduate qualification or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 4 years’ experience working with monitoring Rare and Endangered Species, and ideally conducting some scientific research on the status of plant species.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: specialist scientific skills to undertake species status assessments (ideally applying the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Categories and Criteria); project and time management knowledge and skills; plant identification skills, including understanding of taxonomy and plant ecology; workshop facilitation and expert stakeholder engagement skills; engaging and mentoring research assistants and interns; knowledge of biodiversity monitoring techniques; geographical Information System (GIS) spatial analysis expertise;  advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; report writing skills; people management skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (MS Word, 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:

• Carry out conservation assessments of plant species;
• Undertake fieldwork to assess the population status of threatened plants;
• Prepare information required to support decision making for species of conservation concern; and
• Work collaboratively with botanists to support conducting Red List assessments in the Southern Africa region.

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 authorised 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 Steve Mahlangu on (012) 843 5217 for any queries related to seeking clarity on this position. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications must be submitted via an e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za. Postal applications must be addressed to: Assistant Director: Human Resources, 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.