Assistant Director: Collections Management

South African National Biodiversity Institute; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biodiversity organization in Cape Town is seeking a self-motivated individual to coordinate curation and collection management at the Compton Herbarium. The role requires a relevant degree, at least six years of experience, and strong skills in Microsoft Office. The successful candidate will manage various aspects of collection curation and contribute to policy development. Competitive salary offered with additional benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience.
• 3 years of experience in supervisory positions.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate curation and collection management.
• Provide strategic input towards development of policies.
• Drive implementation of collection management standards.
• Execute research duties within the unit.
• Plan and report on targets for collection management.

Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Excellent organisational skills

Ability to work independently and in a team

Education

Degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent

Honours degree or equivalent at NQF 8

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Overview

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary package of R 582,444.00 plus 37% in lieu of benefits. Reference Number: NSCF/2025/003

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to co-ordinate curation and collection management standards and procedures at the Compton Herbarium, drive implementation of policies, standards, and processes, and provide strategic input, planning and reporting for targets.

This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. An honours degree or equivalent degree at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires six (6) years of work experience in a relevant field (which can include time spent during relevant postgraduate research), three (3) years of which should be in supervisory positions.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: proficient computer literacy with a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint; ability to work independently and as part of a team; knowledge of natural science collection curation and management policies, procedures and standards; excellent oral and written communication skills; excellent organisational skills; a proactive approach to managing tasks. Possession of a valid driver’s license with at least one year of practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:

• Manage and coordinate curation and collection management;
• Provide strategic input towards development of policies, standards, and processes for curation and collection management;
• Drive implementation of policies, standards, and processes for curation and collection management;
• Execute research duties within the unit; and
• Planning and reporting for targets for curation and collection management

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 skills test may be conducted as part of the selection process. 3. Applicants must provide the full names, addresses, 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. By applying, you acknowledge that SANBI’s authorized verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information to conduct background screening and checks. For more information, 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 designated groups.

Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time determined by SANBI. If no response is received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Contact Mr William Mahlangu on [phone] for any queries related to seeking clarity on this position. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications must be submitted online, using the below link.

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