Senior Desktop Support Engineer

South African National Biodiversity Institute; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 398 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent South African research institution is seeking a self-motivated Desktop Engineer to support and troubleshoot technical issues within their computer systems. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in desktop support, a relevant IT degree, and strong problem-solving abilities. This role involves maintaining desktop infrastructure and requires a valid driver’s license for occasional travel. The basic annual salary for this position is R397 116.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Desktop Engineer or Support Technician.
• Experience supporting computer hardware and software applications.
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Support user needs related to desktops, laptops, mobile devices, and printers.
• Monitor the performance of the desktop infrastructure.
• Champion reporting issues related to user support.

Skills

Desktop support

Problem-solving skills

Computer literacy

Technical troubleshooting

Software application support

Education

Degree in Information Technology/Computer Sciences

Honours degree (NQF 8)

Tools

MS Office Suite

Remote connection systems

Job description

Salary Level 8

SANBI offers basic annual salary of R397 116.00

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – Cape Town

Business Innovation Technology Directorate

Reference Number: BIT/001/2026

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to identify problems within computer systems and troubleshoot technical issues, to supervise and support the day to day activities of the desktop support engineers. Proactively monitoring, support and maintain organisational computer systems, desktops and peripherals, this includes installing, diagnosing, repairing, maintaining and upgrading all organisational hardware.

This position requires a degree in Information Technology, Computer Sciences or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. Honours degree or equivalent degree at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 5 years’ work experience in the relevant field.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: Minimum of 5 years’ work experience as a Desktop Engineer or Support Technician; supporting computer hardware and peripherals; supporting computer software applications; supporting remote connection systems/technologies; supporting mobile device management; advanced planning, organising, problem solving skills; proven ability to work under pressure with diverse team while being quality and safety conscious; extensive knowledge and experience in working with legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks related to provision of information technology support and services; excellent financial report writing, and communication at all levels (both verbal and written); excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities

• Support user needs related to desktops, laptops, mobile devices, printers, VOIP phones and the like for both in office and home/remote office needs;
• Monitor the performance of the company's desktop infrastructure and make suggestions for improving efficiency;
• Champion reporting issues and problems related to supporting user needs about desktops, laptops, mobile devices, printers, VOIP phones and the like for both in office and home/remote office needs; and
• Support regional offices

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.

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 Glynnis 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