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SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTE (SANBI) VACANCIES
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTE (SANBI)
HORTICULTURAL CONSERVATION WORKER 4
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 19 September 2025
Job Details
Division: National Botanical Gardens
Business Unit: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Minimum experience: Associate
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Operations
Job Description
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/011
SANBI offers basic annual salary of R193 359.00
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to render support to the maintenance of garden flower beds and cultivation of plants material for display and conservation.
This position requires a Grade 10, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 2 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field of Horticultural and garden maintenance, OR Grade 12, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field of horticultural and garden maintenance. A Higher Education Qualification, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: interpersonal skills; ability to communicate in English (read and write); knowledge of using power tools; Horticulture Training; knowledge of any garden related maintenance work; and use of pesticides and insecticides.
Key Performance Responsibilities include:
- Provide Support in garden planning, development and maintenance;
- Propagate plants and nursery maintenance;
- Assist in managing equipment and tools;
- Support internal and external clients; and
- Adhere to health and safety requirements.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
MACHINE OPERATOR 1
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 19 September 2025
Job Details
Division: National Botanical Gardens
Business Unit: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Minimum experience: Entry Level
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Other
Job Description
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/012
SANBI offers basic annual salary of R163 680.00
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to participate in the maintenance of the developed garden and natural estate areas in terms of mowing of lawn, the maintenance of wooden structures such as memorial benches and bridges and assist other teams when required in order to help accomplish the overall goals and objectives of the National Botanical Garden.
This position requires a Grade 10, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 2 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field, OR Grade 12, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 2 years of work experience in the relevant field. A Higher Education Qualification, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: occupational certificate in horticultural machinery; occupational health and safety training; experience working with power machinery; extensive experience working with high standard for tidy and good maintenance of all areas of work in accordance with good health and safety policies; proven ability to work under pressure whilst being safety and quality conscious; proven ability to work independently as well as with diverse team members; and excellent time management, interpersonal, planning, organizing, and verbal communication skills.
Key Performance Responsibilities include:
Please Note: 1) Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a 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 Ms Naomi Essop on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8428/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity.
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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
MACHINE OPERATOR 1
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 19 September 2025
Job Details
Division: National Botanical Gardens
Business Unit: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Minimum experience: Entry Level
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Other
Job Description
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/012
SANBI offers basic annual salary of R163 680.00
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to participate in the maintenance of the developed garden and natural estate areas in terms of mowing of lawn, the maintenance of wooden structures such as memorial benches and bridges and assist other teams when required in order to help accomplish the overall goals and objectives of the National Botanical Garden.
This position requires a Grade 10, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 2 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field, OR Grade 12, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 2 years of work experience in the relevant field. A Higher Education Qualification, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: occupational certificate in horticultural machinery; occupational health and safety training; experience working with power machinery; extensive experience working with high standard for tidy and good maintenance of all areas of work in accordance with good health and safety policies; proven ability to work under pressure whilst being safety and quality conscious; proven ability to work independently as well as with diverse team members; and excellent time management, interpersonal, planning, organizing, and verbal communication skills.
Key Performance Responsibilities include:
- Perform lawns and infrastructure maintenance.
- Maintain machines, tools and equipment effectively.
- Adhere to risk, health and safety standards and regulations; and
- Support internal and external client services.
Please Note: 1) Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a 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 Ms Naomi Essop on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8428/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity.
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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
PRINCIPAL SPECIALIST: ECOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Pretoria, Gauteng
Permanent
Job Details
Division: Biodiversity Policy Advice
Business Unit: Biodiversity Policy Advice
Minimum experience: Mid-Senior
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Strategy/Planning
EE Status: Only open to EE candidates
Disability: Only open to candidates with a disability
Job Description
SANBI offers an all-inclusive salary package of R1 003 890.00
Reference Number: BIPA/001/2025
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated, professional and responsible person to lead the strategic program on our flagship ecological infrastructure, Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs), ensuring coherence, continuity, and collaboration across multiple stakeholders with a particular focus on municipalities.
This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, qualification at NQF 7. A management postgraduate qualification 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 in first line management position(s).
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: Experience working in the fields of ecological infrastructure and/or natural resource management and/or biodiversity conservation; Technical leadership on biodiversity mainstreaming and policy advice across various strategic sectors; Working experience of biodiversity mainstreaming into local government; Understanding of how to work with and into communities of practice especially at catchment scale; understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation policies and frameworks; project management skills; knowledge of compliance and risk management; effective people management; proven ability to work with diverse teams, ability to develop partnerships and manage stakeholders and relationships, ability to effectively work under pressure, and effective financial and budget management skills; advanced planning, organizing, 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 (GIS, Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) is essential. Knowledge and understanding of spatial and other knowledge products that underpin work on SWSAs. The possession of a valid driver’s licence (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential. SACNASP registration advantageous.
Key Performance Responsibilities include:
• Lead and coordinate SANBI’s Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) programme;
• Provide technical leadership and foster collaboration and continuity to secure SWSAs;
• Manage and support project development and implementation;
• Provide policy advice and mainstream SWSAs into municipal planning and policy; and
• Facilitate Human Capital Development and professional development.
1) Only online applications will be accepted accompanied by 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 references
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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
PRINCIPAL SPECIALIST: ECOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Pretoria, Gauteng
Permanent
Job Details
Division: Biodiversity Policy Advice
Business Unit: Biodiversity Policy Advice
Minimum experience: Mid-Senior
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Strategy/Planning
EE Status: Only open to EE candidates
Disability: Only open to candidates with a disability
Job Description
SANBI offers an all-inclusive salary package of R1 003 890.00
Reference Number: BIPA/001/2025
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated, professional and responsible person to lead the strategic program on our flagship ecological infrastructure, Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs), ensuring coherence, continuity, and collaboration across multiple stakeholders with a particular focus on municipalities.
This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, qualification at NQF 7. A management postgraduate qualification 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 in first line management position(s).
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: Experience working in the fields of ecological infrastructure and/or natural resource management and/or biodiversity conservation; Technical leadership on biodiversity mainstreaming and policy advice across various strategic sectors; Working experience of biodiversity mainstreaming into local government; Understanding of how to work with and into communities of practice especially at catchment scale; understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation policies and frameworks; project management skills; knowledge of compliance and risk management; effective people management; proven ability to work with diverse teams, ability to develop partnerships and manage stakeholders and relationships, ability to effectively work under pressure, and effective financial and budget management skills; advanced planning, organizing, 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 (GIS, Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) is essential. Knowledge and understanding of spatial and other knowledge products that underpin work on SWSAs. The possession of a valid driver’s licence (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential. SACNASP registration advantageous.
Key Performance Responsibilities include:
• Lead and coordinate SANBI’s Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) programme;
• Provide technical leadership and foster collaboration and continuity to secure SWSAs;
• Manage and support project development and implementation;
• Provide policy advice and mainstream SWSAs into municipal planning and policy; and
• Facilitate Human Capital Development and professional development.
1) Only online applications will be accepted accompanied by 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 references
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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
TECHNICAL ASSISTANT MAINTENANCE
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 19 September 2025
Job Details
Division: National Botanical Gardens
Business Unit: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Minimum experience: Entry Level
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Other
Job Description
Technical Assistant: Maintenance
Salary Level 4
SANBI offers basic annual salary of R193 359.00
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town
National Botanical Gardens Division
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/006
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of experienced and reliable individual to assist the Senior Artisan/Principal Supervisor to ensure that all projects and maintenance requests are completed according to specifications within the budget and time frames using quality assurance standards.
This position requires a Grade 10, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 2 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field, or Grade 12, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field. A Higher Education Qualification, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: be in possession of a trade test certificate in bricklaying at NQF 4; exposure to perform solid waste management, fence work, minor building repairs, painting, varnishing, signage installations and machinery work; be in possession of a valid driver’s license Code B; willingness to learn and take instructions; ability to work in a team and independently; good communication skills; and basic relevant skills training. The candidate must be trained in bricklaying, blockwork and masonry work.
The responsibilities include:
- Assist in operational functions, and projects;
- Assist in the completion of generalist tasks;
- Assist in administrative task; and
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety policy.
Please Note: 1) Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a 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 Mr. Veli Ngobese on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8636/8800 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 the online portal.
PLEASE APPLY HER
TECHNICAL ASSISTANT WORKSHOP
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 19 September 2025
Job Details
Division: National Botanical Gardens
Business Unit: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Minimum experience: Entry Level
Company primary industry: Government Administration
Job functional area: Other
Job Description
Technical Assistant: Workshop
Salary Level 4
SANBI offers basic annual salary of R193 359
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town
National Botanical Gardens Division
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/007
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of experienced and reliable individual to assist the Senior Artisan/Principal Supervisor to ensure that all projects and maintenance requests are completed according to specifications within the budget and time frames using quality assurance standards.
This position requires a Grade 10, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 2 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field, or Grade 12, Job Specific Qualification, or equivalent qualification at NQF 4 with 3 years of work experience in the relevant field. A Higher Education Qualification, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.
The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: be in possession of a mechanical engineering trade test at NQF 4; exposure to perform various welding, electrical, building, workshop, and machinery works; be in possession of a valid driver’s license Code B; willingness to learn and take instructions; ability to work in a team and independently; good communication skills; and basic relevant skills training. The candidate must have experience in performing plumbing maintenance, irrigation system repairs, minor building repairs, painting, varnishing, carpentry and machinery work will be an added advantage.
The responsibilities include:
- Assist in operational functions, and projects;
- Assist in the completion of generalist tasks;
- Assist in administrative task; and
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety policy.
Please Note: 1) Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a 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 Mr. Veli Ngobese on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8636/8800 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 the online portal.
PLEASE APPLY HERE