Digital Archivist for Indigenous Knowledge Job Vacancy Cultural Preservation and Digital Archiving

Position:
Digital Archivist for Indigenous Knowledge

Company:
South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)

Location:

Nelspruit, South Africa

Experience:

3-5 years in digital archiving or cultural preservation

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Digital Archiving, or related field

Employment Type:

Full-time

Industry: Cultural Preservation and Digital Archiving

Department:
Research and Archiving

Salary: 35,000 – 50,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a leading organization dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of South Africa’s biodiversity. With a focus on integrating indigenous knowledge systems into modern conservation practices, SANBI seeks to bridge traditional ecological wisdom with cutting-edge digital archiving technologies. Based in Nelspruit, this role supports SANBI’s mission to document and preserve the rich cultural and biological heritage of the region.

As a Digital Archivist for Indigenous Knowledge, you will play a pivotal role in digitizing, organizing, and curating traditional knowledge systems related to biodiversity, medicinal plants, and ecological practices. This position is ideal for professionals passionate about cultural preservation and digital innovation.

• Digitize and catalog indigenous knowledge related to biodiversity, traditional medicine, and ecological practices.
• Collaborate with local communities to ethically document oral histories and traditional practices.
• Develop metadata standards and workflows for digital archives aligned with international best practices.
• Integrate digital archives into SANBI’s public and research databases, ensuring accessibility and security.
• Conduct workshops to train community members in digital archiving tools and ethical documentation practices.

• Proficiency in digital archiving software (e.g., Archivists’ Toolkit, DSpace).
• Strong understanding of indigenous knowledge systems and ethical documentation principles.
• Experience with metadata creation and digital preservation standards (e.g., Dublin Core, PREMIS).
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with diverse cultural communities.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize complex cultural and ecological data.

• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Digital Archiving, Anthropology, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in Cultural Heritage Management or Indigenous Knowledge Systems is advantageous.

• 3–5 years of experience in digital archiving, cultural preservation, or a combination of both. Experience working with indigenous communities or in biodiversity research is preferred.

35,000 – 50,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience.

• Comprehensive health and wellness package.
• Professional development budget for certifications and conferences.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
• Opportunities for fieldwork in diverse ecosystems across South Africa.

• Onboarding training on SANBI’s digital archiving systems and protocols.
• Workshops on ethical engagement with indigenous communities.
• Advanced courses in metadata standards and digital preservation techniques.

The role involves a mix of office-based work at SANBI’s Nelspruit headquarters and fieldwork in rural and remote areas. Candidates must be adaptable to varying climates and willing to travel extensively. The position emphasizes collaboration with local communities, researchers, and conservation partners.

Applications close on .

SANBI is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, gender, disability, or cultural background. All selections will be made without discrimination.