Senior Specialist 1: Data Coordination (Specimen Databases)

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

Job summary

A government agency for biodiversity is seeking a meticulous coordinator for specimen data management, focusing on developing tools and standards within the Natural Science Collections Facility. The ideal candidate will manage data processes, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement and database customization. Relevant qualifications in Life Sciences or Information Sciences, along with extensive data management experience, are essential. This role offers an inclusive annual salary package of R 582,444.00 plus benefits.

Qualifications

• 6 years of work experience in a relevant field.
• Knowledge of biodiversity data management and tools.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate specimen data management activities.
• Implement data migration and database customization.
• Engage stakeholders effectively.

Skills

Relational databases

Data management

Specify software

Collection management

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Computer literacy

Driver’s license

Education

Degree in Life Sciences, Information Sciences or equivalent qualification at NQF 7

Honours degree or postgraduate qualification at NQF 8

Tools

MS Word

MS Project

PowerPoint

Excel

Internet

Outlook

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/2025/002

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated and meticulous individual to coordinate and oversee specimen data and database-related activities within the Natural Science Collections Facility (NSCF), including the development and application of tools, standards, and workflows, managing data migration, customization, digitization, and data cleaning processes, with a particular focus on Specify software. Additionally, the role involves capturing and publishing biodiversity data to data aggregators and contributing to the creation and maintenance of a vibrant and functional network of NSCF partner institutions, ensuring effective collaboration and comprehensive data management across the network.

Qualifications

This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Information Sciences or equivalent qualification at NQF 7. An honours degree or postgraduate qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years of work experience in relevant field (can include time spent during relevant postgraduate research).

Competencies

• Extensive knowledge and experience in relational databases / data management / Specify software
• Extensive knowledge and experience in collection management/curation and project management
• Comprehensive knowledge and experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management
• Advanced experience in the implementation of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, and regulatory framework relevant to programme and project management
• Excellent project management skills
• Ability to work with diverse teams and under pressure whilst being quality, cost and safety conscious
• In-depth organisational, analytical, and problem solving skills
• Excellent communication (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
• Possession of a valid driver’s license with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel

Key Responsibilities

• Development and application of standards, protocols and tools for specimen data management
• Specimen data quality assurance
• Execute data migration, database customisation and support
• Coordinate and participate in stakeholder engagement and relationships
• Conduct research and own capacity development

Notes

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, 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.

Candidate availability for selection interviews is expected on a date and time determined by SANBI. If no response is 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. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications must be submitted online, using the below link: