RE-ADVERTISEMENT: Senior Curator Aquarium (Fish, amphibians, fur seals and penguins)

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

Job summary

A leading biodiversity conservation organization is searching for a dedicated individual to manage a section of the zoo. You'll be responsible for leading animal care and welfare initiatives, developing operational plans, and promoting public engagement in wildlife conservation. Candidates should hold a degree in Zoology or a related field, along with leadership experience in the animal care sector, and possess strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years work experience in relevant field, with 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Must possess a valid driver’s licence with at least one year of practical driving experience.
• Good understanding of biodiversity conservation legislation and ethical governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a section of the zoo concerning animal taxa.
• Develop operational plans and manage animal husbandry activities.
• Grow the NZG profile in wildlife conservation through public engagements.

Skills

Animal welfare knowledge

Team leadership

Communication skills

Problem solving

Planning and organizing

Education

Degree in Zoology or related field

Postgraduate degree or qualification at NQF 8

Job description

Job Summary

Salary Level 10

SANBI offers basic annual salary of R582 444.00

Reference Number: NZG/2025/006

Workstation: National Zoological Garden, Pretoria

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated, professional and responsible person to contribute to departmental strategic objectives through leading and managing a section of the zoo which consists of a specific group of animal taxa according to best animal husbandry and welfare practices.

This position requires a degree in Zoology, Nature Conservation, Game Ranch Management, Animal Health or equivalent qualification at NQF 7. A relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent qualification at NQF 8, will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years of work experience in the relevant field, 3 years of which should be in a supervisory position/s.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: advanced specialised knowledge of the animal welfare, care and ethical requirements of the taxa concerned; in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation strategies; comprehensive knowledge of legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation, organisational finance, project management, procurement, human resources management, and ethical corporate governance; a good understanding of the World Zoo and Aquaria Conservation and Animal Welfare Strategies; a good understanding of the South African National Standards for Zoo and Aquarium Practice; must have a good understanding of Health and Safety in the work place; proven ability to work with diverse team under pressure whilst being quality, cost and safety conscious; advanced planning, organising, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; The candidate must be in the possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience. A valid Class V (or higher) Commercial Dive qualification will be an added advantage. Applicants without a valid Class V (or higher) Commercial Dive qualification shall enter into a written agreement which will be encapsulated in their employment contract that they must obtain a Class V Commercial Dive qualification within twelve (12) months after assumption of duty. Candidates should therefore have excellent swimming skills. Candidates must be willing to be trained as a Commercial Dive Supervisor.

Key Performance Responsibilities

• Build an engaging animal collection display of conservation importance that increases public science awareness and improves visitor experience.
• Contribute to the strategic plans for the Animal Collection and Conservation directorate and the National Zoological Garden.
• Grow the NZG profile in wildlife conservation by advancing knowledge and action in sustainable biodiversity management and providing leadership in welfare and care practices of ex-situ wildlife.
• Manage outputs such as operational plan development and implementation, management of animal husbandry and welfare activities, section projects, co‑ordination of animal capture operations, contribute towards infrastructure projects, administration and reporting requirements and public engagements.
• Develop zoo industry professional skills and grow the next generation through mentorship and training.
• Manage a team in respect of outputs, staff relations, performance and attendance.
• Support governance, risk and compliance through budget management, asset and equipment management, health and safety requirements and operational continuity relating to the assigned section.

Please Note

• 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).
• A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
• Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible, e‑mail addresses of at least three referees.
• 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 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.

The Candidate is 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.