Assistant Director : Regional Coordination

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to manage the strategic and operational component of the SANBI Directorate on Biological Invasion in Regions to ensure the achievement of SANBI strategic goals.

This position requires a Degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology or equivalent qualification at NQF 7.

A postgraduate qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage.

This position also requires 6 years of work experience in a relevant field, 3 years of which should be in supervisory position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position:

1. Completion of at least one scientific publication;
2. Knowledge of National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) as well as associated regulations – experience in the biodiversity sector;
3. Knowledge of SANBI's policies and systems – experience in a public service organisation;
4. Numeracy – budget management and analysis of scientific data;
5. Literacy – writing of reports, scientific publications, motivations, awareness raising materials;
6. Language skills – ability to speak confidently at meetings and conferences – must have good command of spoken and written English;
7. Typing experience – required daily for emails and document preparation;
8. Computer literate – Full Microsoft Office suite required daily for all data management as well as analysis and write-ups;
9. Other programmes required for mapping and data analysis;
10. In-depth understanding of national and global invasion biology issues;
11. Knowledge about legislation pertaining to invasion biology;
12. Knowledge on the management of organisational finance;
13. Project management knowledge and skills;
14. Knowledge about Government Human Resources (HR), procurement and financial management policies;
15. 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:

1. Ensure detection program is effectively implemented and managed;
2. Manage and coordinate the Eradication Programme;
3. Execute research and publishing duties;
4. Manage the Regional Unit's outcomes and performance;
5. Ensure efficient management of the region's data and database.

Application procedure: 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). A competency test may be conducted as part of the selection process. Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees. 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.

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 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.

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources Operations

South African National Biodiversity Institute

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.

Closes: Friday, 8 December

Job type: Fixed Term contract ending 31 March

Salary: R .00 plus 37% in lieu of benefits

Location: Durban