Horticulturist

South African National Biodiversity Institute; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental organization is seeking a passionate Horticulturist to manage the development and maintenance of plant collections at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The role requires a degree in Horticulture, at least 6 years of experience, and strong leadership skills. Responsibilities include planning and executing garden maintenance projects, promoting biodiversity through conservation efforts, and overseeing a team. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation and engage with plant research initiatives in a prestigious garden setting.

Qualifications

• 6 years' experience in relevant field of Horticulture, 3 in supervisory roles.
• Possession of a valid driver's license with at least one-year practical driving experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct garden operations planning, maintenance & development.
• Lead management of team and maintain performance.
• Coordinate curation of living collections in gardens and nurseries.
• Promote and participate in conservation and research projects.
• Plan and implement projects aligned with SANBI's mission.

Skills

Excellent knowledge of indigenous horticulture

Knowledge of propagation procedures

Ability to manage a team

Strong communication skills

Advanced planning and problem solving

Education

Degree in Horticulture or equivalent relevant qualification at NQF 7

Postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or equivalent at NQF 8

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Job description

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town

National Botanical Gardens Division

Reference Number: GKBC/2025/016

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a passionate and self-motivated individual to fulfill a key Horticultural role by leading the development and maintenance of the Proteaceae and Restionaceae display garden areas and associated living collections at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

This position requires a degree in Horticulture or equivalent relevant qualification at NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or equivalent at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years’ experience in the relevant field of Horticulture, 3 years of which must be in a supervisory position(s) as a practicing Horticulturist.

The position is responsible for curating and cultivating a wide range of Protea and Restio genera with the following key competencies for the candidate to be successful in this position: excellent knowledge and understanding of indigenous horticulture and conservation are essential; knowledge of propagation procedures, protocols and processes, practical experience and knowledge of propagation facilities, knowledge of field collecting and plant introduction and care, competent in long term curation and maintenance of living plant collections, understanding landscaping using fynbos and natural design elements, leading and managing a team of conservation workers in the garden and nursery collections, knowledgeable and experience with working with conservation stakeholders, advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; ability to work under pressure whilst being safety conscious; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Conduct garden display and living collections operations planning, maintenance & development
• Lead the management of people and maintain high levels of performance
• Manage the coordination of curation of living collections in both the garden and collections nursery
• Promote & participate in horticultural, plant conservation, and research projects
• Conduct planning, coordination and implementation of projects to promote the mission of SANBI and Kirstenbosch

Salary commensurate with a range of inputs and outputs in terms of the SANBI career ladder for horticulturists.

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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 competency test will 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, 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. 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.

Contact Ms G Webb on Tel: [phone]/8800 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 the online portal.