Specialist 2: Plant Red Listing

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 and to provide international leadership in this field to fellow Southern African countries via training and lessons exchange.

This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 6 years’ experience in monitoring Rare and Endangered Species and conducting scientific research on the status of plant species with at least 3 years’ experience including having supervised junior scientists/interns/research assistants.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: specialised scientific skills on how to apply the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Categories and Criteria to different species; in-depth understanding of national and global species assessment processes; project and time management knowledge and skills; plant identification skills, including understanding of taxonomy and plant ecology; expert stakeholder engagement skills; proven ability and experience for mentoring students and interns; advanced knowledge of utilising biodiversity monitoring techniques; comprehensive knowledge and understanding for the use of geographical Information System (GIS); must have sound database management skills, interpersonal skills, problem solving skills, and excellent communication skills (both verbal and written). 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;
• Supervise the production of assessments produced by research assistants, interns, and other SANBI scientists;
• Prepare information required to support decision making for species of conservation concern;
• Provide guidance to international scientists conducting red list assessments in the Southern Africa region; and
• Ensure that the plant red list is taxonomically up to date.

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.

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.

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:

Assistant 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.

Enquiries:
Mr Vusi Mncwango 
Tel: 082 7372 125