Senior Curator Aquarium

Hashtag Nonprofit Npc; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 583 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation organization is looking for a Senior Curator to manage the aquarium section at the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Zoology, extensive experience in animal welfare, and strong leadership skills. Responsibilities include developing engaging displays and managing animal welfare practices while contributing to conservation strategies. This is a full-time position with an annual salary of R582 444.00.

Benefits

Support for professional development

Involvement in wildlife conservation projects

Qualifications

• 6 years of work experience in a relevant field.
• 3 years in a supervisory position.
• Valid driver's license with driving experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage animal husbandry and welfare activities.
• Develop engaging conservation displays.
• Contribute to strategic plans for the zoo.

Skills

Advanced specialized knowledge of animal welfare

In-depth understanding of biodiversity conservation strategies

Good communication skills

Advanced planning and problem-solving skills

Education

Degree in Zoology or equivalent qualification at NQF 7

Postgraduate degree at NQF 8

Tools

Health and Safety compliance

Project management

Job description

Overview

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) — Senior Curator Aquarium (Fish, amphibians, fur seals and penguins)

Region: Pretoria • Salary: R582 444.00 • Type of employment: Full time • Deadline: 14 November 2025

Job Description

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

Reference Number: NZG/2025/006
Salary Level 10: SANBI offers basic annual salary of R582 444.00
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.

Roles and 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 though budget management, asset and equipment management, health and safety requirements and operational continuity relating to the assigned section.

Qualifications And Requirements

• 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.

Competencies

• 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, organizing, 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.

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.

How to apply

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 skills test may 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. For more information, kindly refer to SANBI’s website.

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 any queries related to seeking clarity on this position.

Qualifications

Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications MUST be submitted online, using the below link:

Apply

Keep #NGOJobsBoard thriving: Tell employers you found their listing on Hashtag Nonprofit!

More about this vacancy

• Date posted: 29 October 2025

Back to #NGOJobsBoard