Technical Assistant: Workshop

Hashtag Nonprofit NPC; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 194 000; Full time

Job summary

A national environmental organization based in Cape Town is seeking a Technical Assistant to support project operations and maintenance at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The ideal candidate will have a mechanical engineering trade test and experience in welding, plumbing, and machinery work. This full-time role offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to work within a dedicated team focused on biodiversity initiatives.

Qualifications

• 4 years of relevant work experience with Level 10 qualification or 3 years with Level 12 qualification.
• Possession of relevant mechanical engineering qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Assist in operational functions and projects.
• Complete generalist and administrative tasks.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety policies.

Skills

Mechanical engineering trade test

Welding experience

Electrical knowledge

Building skills

Workshop and machinery work

Plumbing maintenance

Irrigation repairs

Communication skills

Education

Level 10 Job Specific Qualification (NQF 2) or Level 12 Job Specific Qualification (NQF 4)

Higher Education Job Specific Qualification or equivalent NQF 5

Job description

Technical Assistant: Workshop at South African National Biodiversity Institute

Deadline: 15 December 2025

Region: Cape Town

Type of Employment: Full time

Salary Level 4: SANBI offers a basic annual salary of R193 359

Location: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town, National Botanical Gardens Division

Reference Number: GKBC/2025/007

Job Description

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of an experienced and reliable individual to assist the Senior Artisan/Principal Supervisor. The incumbent will ensure that all projects and maintenance requests are completed according to specifications, within budget, and on schedule, using quality assurance standards.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assist in operational functions and projects.
• Assist in the completion of generalist tasks.
• Assist in administrative tasks.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety policy.

Qualifications And Requirements

This position requires:

• Level 10, Job Specific Qualification (NQF 2) with 4 years of relevant work experience, OR Level 12, Job Specific Qualification (NQF 4) with 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Higher Education, Job Specific Qualification or equivalent NQF 5 qualification is an added advantage.

Required competencies:

• Possession of a mechanical engineering trade test at NQF 4.
• Experience in welding, electrical, building, workshop, and machinery work.
• Valid driver’s licence Code B.
• Willingness to learn and take instructions.
• Ability to work autonomously and in a team.
• Good communication skills.
• Basic relevant skills training.
• Experience in plumbing maintenance, irrigation system repairs, minor building repairs, painting, varnishing, carpentry, and machinery work is an added advantage.

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. Applications must be accompanied by a CV, a motivation letter, 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, telephone numbers, and, if possible, email addresses of at least three referees.
• Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall result in your application not being considered.

Contact Mr. Veli Ngobese on Tel: [phone]/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity.

Apply Here

Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via the online portal.

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 necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks.

More About This Vacancy

Date posted: 01 December 2025