Assistant Director: Collections Management

South African National Biodiversity Institute; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 582 000 - 670 000; Full time

Job summary

A national biodiversity institute in South Africa is seeking a self-motivated individual to coordinate curation and collection management at the Compton Herbarium. The ideal candidate should have a degree in relevant fields and six years of experience, including three in supervisory roles. Responsibilities include managing collection standards and providing strategic input. The role offers a competitive salary package and encourages diverse candidates to apply.

Qualifications

• Requires six years of work experience in relevant field.
• Three years in supervisory positions.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license with practical driving experience.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Computer literacy

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Excellent organisational skills

Ability to work independently

Ability to work in a team

Education

Degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification with NQF 7

Honours degree or equivalent degree 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

About the role

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 to provide strategic input, planning and reporting for targets.

Qualifications

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 relevant field (can include time spent during relevant postgraduate research), 3 years of which should be in supervisory position(s).

Competencies

Must be proficient in 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 and a proactive approach to managing tasks. The 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

• 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

Notes

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 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. 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.

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.

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