Principal Specialist 1: National Biodiversity Assessment & Monitoring Framework

Salary Level 12

SANBI offers an all-inclusive package of R

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town

Biodiversity Research, Assessment & Monitoring Division

Reference Number: BRAM/2026/003

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to provide scientific leadership for the National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA) and Biodiversity Monitoring Framework for South Africa to ensure that national and international biodiversity reporting commitments are met. To advise on the monitoring and research activities required to support the National Biodiversity Assessment and Biodiversity Monitoring Framework. To lead the maintenance and development of the national ecosystem classification system and maps.

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

A postgraduate qualification in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 or above 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
:
In-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation, to the level where one can engage on complex reporting requirements; having an international scientific reputation will be an added advantage. In-depth knowledge of South African national, provincial and local biodiversity assessment and planning products and processes. Demonstrable experience of leading and convening biodiversity processes; with strong workshop facilitation, convening, coordination and stakeholder engagement skills.

Demonstrable experience (e.g. authorship) in at least two of the following: biodiversity planning products, key biodiversity areas maps or management plans, critical biodiversity areas mapping or plans, species red listing, ecosystem red listing, biodiversity-related indicators, national-level biodiversity reporting. Strong Geographical Information System (GIS) Spatial analysis expertise. Sufficient data science knowledge to drive ongoing innovation for the transparent and repeatable online NBA.

Experience in managing staff and performance management; building teams; human capital development. Knowledge about legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation. Knowledge on the management of organisational finance Project management knowledge and skills; experience raising donor funds would be an advantage. Knowledge about Government Human Resource (HR), procurement and financial management policies.

Key Performance

Responsibilities include:

• Champion project co-ordination and management;
• Provide leadership and direction to the National Biodiversity Assessment;
• Development of projects and or research programmes for the National Biodiversity Assessment;
• Lead ecosystem classification, mapping and description for National Biodiversity Assessment; and
• Facilitate human capital development and transformation within the business unit.

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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.…