SANBI Jobs and Tenders

Chief Horticulturist
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Cape Town

  Closing date 26 February 2005

This position requires an individual who demonstrates the ability to conduct research, manage and develop key living collections of Proteaceae and Restionaceae, with the emphasis on their horticulture, suitability, display, education, interpretation and promotion in the Garden. The incumbent will manage large selections of the display garden, specifically with regard to the quality displays and adherence to Botanical Garden principles.

The ideal candidate is in possession of a National Diploma in Horticulture, enhanced by three to five years appropriate post qualification experience. A valid, unendorsed Code EB driver's licence is essential, as the successful candidate will be required to go on plant collecting trips in mountain areas.  

Key responsibilities will be:

"  Manage and supervise the Protea and Restio garden teams and the nursery staff member(s) dedicated to propagation of these collections. Assist with student and staff training.

"  To develop and maintain representative plant collections

"  Ensure genetic purity of the collections through proper plant recording and labelling

"  Undertake field trips to collect seed and vegetative material to enhance and refresh the collections

"  Develop appropriate and educational interpretation with the interpretative officer to display with the collections

"  To promote the use of indigenous plants with particular reference to Proteaceae and Restionaceae through talks, articles and provision of plant material for sales

"  Attend to correspondence and horticultural queries relating to Proteaceae and Restionaceae.

"  Doing weekend, public holiday duties when required

"  Ensuring Occupational Health and Safety compliance

It addition to the afore-mentioned, candidates must be computer literate and demonstrate the ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations, as well as communicate effectively in English, both in speaking and writing.

The application must be accompanied by a letter of motivation as to why the applicant should be favourable considered for the position.

We offer an annual salary of R111 528.00 and additional fringe benefits, which include attractive medical and pension schemes.

All applications will be considered, with the understanding that, in terms of SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position.

Contact Glynnis Oosthuizen on (021) 799 8635 or preferably, forward an abbreviated CV by e-mail to or fax (021) 762 3229. Postal applications are to be addressed to The Personnel Manager, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag x7, Claremont , 7735.

Closing Date: 26 February 2005

Should a candidate not have received any feedback within 21 days after closing date, please assume that the application was unsuccessful.

Regional Co-ordinator : Working for Wetlands Programme
Eastern, Western and Northern Cape
(Two-year Contract) Port Elizabeth/Cape Town

Closing Date: 25 February 2005  

This vacancy is available in the Working for Wetlands (WFW) programme to a candidate who holds a degree or equivalent qualification in Natural Sciences or Engineering with minimum five years' relevant experience. The incumbent will provide regional support to national WFW management through the monitoring and evaluation of rehabilitation projects and operational support.

Key responsibilities include:

• • visiting projects on a monthly basis and submitting evaluation reports outlining compliance with all contractual obligations
• • evaluating requests for payment, as well as compiling monthly progress and financial reports
• • assisting implementers with the compilation of business and project implementation plans, checking plans for feasibility and correctness, and ensuring timely submission to SANBI
• • contributing to the evaluation of rehabilitation plans by the technical advisors
• • assistance in ensuring that projects are managed efficiently, effectively, economically and transparently
• • engaging with land owners, wetland users, communities, government and civil society organisations in order to further the wetland conservation and sustainable-use objectives of the Programme and SANBI
• • ensuring land owner agreements are signed and complied with during and beyond project lifespans
• • participating in provincial wetland fora • liaising with officials involved with law enforcement around wetlands and, where appropriate, assisting in enforcement of legislation concerned with wetland protection • ensuring compliance with Health & Safety legislation.

Experience in working with communities and land owners is prerequisite, as are a keen interest in conservation and in-depth knowledge of the rehabilitation, conservation and management of wetlands. Appointment requires candidates to be computer literate (MS

Office and GIS), in possession of a valid Code B driver's licence, able to maintain sound interpersonal relations and to communicate effectively (writing and speaking) in English and one other official language. Well developed management skills, as well as the ability to interact professionally and effectively with a range of stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, are essential.

Please note that the incumbent will be expected to provide his/her own vehicle, but that he/she will be reimbursed for travel expenses according to prescribed rates.

On offer is an all-inclusive remuneration package of R187 469 per annum, annually renewable, based on performance and funding.

Please note that applications must be accompanied by a covering letter of motivation as to why the applicant should be favorably considered for the position as well as three contactable references.

SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position.

All applicants will be considered, with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact: Ms Glynnis Oosthuizen on 021 799 8635 or, preferably forward a concise CV to or fax 021 762 3229. Postal applications are to be addressed to: The Deputy Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X7, CLAREMONT, 7735.

Closing Date: 25 February 2005
If no response has been received within 21 days after closing date, please assume that your application was unsuccessful.

Call for expression of interest
Development of a plant sales nursery in the Pretoria National Botanical Garden
Friday 11 February at 9:00 (changed from 9 Feb)

Due to the interest shown by the increasing numbers of visitors to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden and to meet the demand for indigenous plants from, the South African National Biodiversity Institute intends to develop a Plant Sales Nursery within the boundaries of the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria, Pretoria.

We are calling for expressions of interest from potential lessees in the development of nursery layout plans and business plans for the intended plant sales nursery.

A compulsory briefing of interested parties will be held at the Garden on Wednesday 9 February at 9:00 at which time further information will be made available. Please meet at the Visitor Entrance. Potential lessees will thereafter be required to submit plans based on the terms of reference that will be provided.

For further information, please contact Karin Behr at 072 305 0234, (012) 843-5000 or e-mail her at

Research leader: molecular systematics/ conservation genetics

Kirstenbosch Research Centre
Cape Town
Closing date: 25 February 2005

The Leslie Hill Molecular Systematics Laboratory at Kirstenbosch is one of the foremost facilities of its kind in Africa and includes a DNA bank for the South African flora. SANBI is seeking a dynamic individual to direct the laboratory and to provide leadership for research. The current research programme, which can be expanded, uses DNA sequencing and AFLP markers to better understand phylogenetic relationships and population/conservation genetics of the South African flora. The successful candidate will be expected to identify key research questions and make links to other projects within SANBI and outside institutions, manage the research programme and DNA bank, contribute to mentoring and capacity building, and source additional funds for research. A PhD with appropriate research experience as well as the ability to lead a research programme are prerequisites for the position.

Download Job Description (.pdf file)

The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, as well as sound oral and written command of English. Command of one other official language would be an advantage. A valid, unendorsed Code B driver's licence is essential.

SANBI offers a salary package of R 193 920.00 per annum, plus additional fringe benefits that include attractive medical and pension schemes.

Please note that applications must be accompanied by a letter of motivation as to why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position.

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 currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Glynnis Oosthuizen on (021) 799 8635 or preferably, forward an abbreviated CV by e-mail to or fax (021) 762 3229. Postal applications are to be addressed to The Deputy Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag x7, Claremont , 7735.

 Closing date: 25 February 2005  

If no response has been received within 21 days after closing date, candidates may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.

PRETORIA NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
LESSEE REQUIRED FOR NEW RESTAURANT

Tender closing 25 February 2005

The Pretoria National Botanical Garden has built a new thatch-roof restaurant on the outskirts of the Garden, close to the main car park. This restaurant has spectacular views of the Garden and can seat 120 people inside and about the same number of people outside on the deck overlooking the newly created wetland system. Operating hours and style of operation are flexible. A five-year lease (renewable for a further five years by mutual agreement) is being offered in return for capital investment. Potential exists for Garden functions, picnic hampers and special event catering

A detailed Specification and Forms of Tender are available from the Pretoria National Botanical Garden in return for a non-refundable deposit of R350. For more information please phone (012) 843 5194/843 5079 or 072 305 0234. Completed documents are to be returned to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden offices in a sealed envelope no later than 16:00 on Friday 25 February 2005

The letting of this establishment will be in accordance with the South African National Biodiversity Institute's Employment Equity Policy.

National Grasslands Programme
2 x Posts : Pretoria  

Closing date: 11 February 2005

Mandated with the study, conservation and promotion of South Africa's rich biodiversity, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), a public entity operating in nine different centres, offers these vacancies, both of which will be based in Pretoria, in the National Grasslands Programme.  

Programme Development Consultant

16 Month Contract

This position needs to be filled by a highly experienced consultant to provide Programme Development services for the detailed planning of the National Grasslands Programme over a 16- month period, starting in April 2005.

The grasslands provide essential ecosystem services necessary for economic development, but is highly threatened. The Grasslands Programme seeks to address this through engaging the key impacting economic sectors. The consultant will need to propose how much time is necessary to fulfil the key performance areas detailed below and demonstrate understanding of how to realise, in practice, an approach towards conserving biodiversity that will result in a strengthened economy and contribute to poverty alleviation. Although the consultant may not be required on a full-time basis, he/she needs to be available for the entire 16-months period.

  Key performance areas will entail:

• strategic leadership in the planning phase of the National Grasslands Programme in conjunction with the SANBI Biodiversity Director

• managing all programme processes, deliverables, compliance to donor requirements, finances, procurement and contracting of service providers that results in the delivery of the UNDP GEF final project implementation documents

• ensuring the development of and managing the relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders (private sector, public sector, NGOs and academic), resulting in their interest in, mobilisation and support of the Programme

• ensuring the development and promotion of the economic case for the value of ecosystems, particularly grasslands, as the basis upon which mainstreaming of grasslands into production sectors will occur

• supervising the Programme Co-ordinator and developing a structured approach to transferring expertise to and developing competencies of the Programme Co-ordinator and other relevant SANBI staff.

In the light of the above, it is evident that the envisaged candidate must be a skilled conceptualiser and analytical thinker with at least ten years' programme development, management and leadership experience, gained within the public sector, an NGO environment and/or the private sector. Appointment furthermore requires a postgraduate university degree in Management or Natural Sciences, complemented by in-depth knowledge of environmental, planning and land legislation and policies and the systematic biodiversity planning approach in South Africa , as well as working experience of SANBI and the Grasslands Programme.  

This team player must demonstrate excellent spoken and written communication skills, as well as the ability to conduct discussions within all spheres of Government, the private sector, NGOs, grassroots-level community organisations, academic institutions and service providers. Computer proficiency in at least MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint is essential, as is possession of a valid Code B driver's licence. Candidates must furthermore be willing to travel extensively.

If you comply with the above, are self-motivated and results-driven, and have an innovative approach towards programme delivery, you should not hesitate to apply. Together with an up-to date CV with contact details of two referees for whom you have provided consultancy services, you must also submit a letter of motivation, stating why you comply with the competencies required, your approach to the work and your offering (cost to SANBI and time availability).

Terms of reference for above post

Programme Co-ordinator
(16-months Contract)

A dynamic individual is required to co-ordinate the detailed planning of the National Grasslands Programme, starting in April 2005. Prospective applicants must hold an appropriate postgraduate degree, enhanced by at least five years' experience in the relevant field and in programme co-ordination. Knowledge of SANBI's biodiversity work will be an added advantage.

Together with good conceptual, analytical and writing skills, as well as the ability to prepare reports and recommendations, candidates must be computer literate (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint), able to work on own initiative and as a team member, willing to travel and in possession of a valid Code B driver's licence. Spoken and written communication skills in English and one other official language are essential, as is the ability to conduct discussions within all spheres of Government, the private sector (particularly agriculture and forestry), workers' organisations, NGOs, grassroots-level community organisations, academic institutions and service providers.

Main responsibilities will involve:

• assisting the Grasslands Programme Developer (PD) in managing all programme processes, deliverables, finances, procurement and contracting of service providers

• assisting the PD in the delivery of the UNDP GEF final project implementation documents

• representing the Grasslands Programme in discussions and negotiations with stakeholders (private sector, public sector, NGOs and academic) about their participation in the Grasslands Programme which should result in interest in, mobilisation and support of the Programme • managing the process of ensuring compliance with donor requirements, including the writing of narrative reports and financial reporting

• actively participating in a structured learning process whereby the expertise and experience of the PD are made available to the Programme Co-ordinator, who incrementally, under direction of the PD, takes on more responsibilities for the management of the Programme

• providing content direction to the Programme through analysing reports from service providers and active participation in workshops and discussions.

SANBI offers all-inclusive salaries, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please note that applications must be accompanied by the contact details of three referees, as well as a covering letter as to why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position.

SANBI reserves the right not to fill these positions.

All applications will be considered, with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.  

Applications submitted by employment agencies will not be accepted.

Contact Ms Glynnis Oosthuizen on 021 799 8635 or, preferably, forward a concise CV to or fax 021 799 8617. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Deputy Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X7, Claremont 7735.  

Closing date: 11 February 2005

  If no response has been received within 21 days after closing date, candidates may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.

 EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Greening the Nation Programme
Closing date for submission of responses: 17:00 on the 4th March 2005

Restoration of indigenous vegetation in school grounds, in residential areas, towns and other public spaces.For effective implementation of the Greening of the Nation Programme activities in the areas listed below, the services of contractors that will facilitate the process are required.

Download terms of reference as .pdf files below.

Mpumalanga:
Nelspruit town
10 surrounding schools in Mbombela local Municipality ( Ehlanzeni District Municipality )

Burgersfort town
10 surrounding schools in Tubatse Municipality (Sekhukhune District Municipality)

Eastern Cape :
Grahamstown Botanical Garden Nursery

Bizana town
O.R. Tambo Monument
20 surrounding schools in Mbizana local Municipality (O.R. Tambo District Municipality)

Background

The association of the loss of vegetation and dramatic change in climatic conditions, global warming, increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, desertification etc, dominates in most climatological debates. Loss of indigenous vegetation because of the increase of the alien invasive vegetation is a national concern.

An attempt to restore indigenous vegetation in school grounds, in residential areas, in towns and other public spaces has been funded by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) through the Poverty Relief fund and is implemented by the Environmental Education Directorate of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).

This Greening of the Nation programme forms part of government's Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), which seeks to draw significant numbers of unemployed South African citizens into the productive sector of the economy, gaining skills while they work and increasing their capacity to earn income. Built into the programme is an internship programme, which aims to equip a pool of South Africans on Horticultural and Environmental Education skills in an attempt to increase champions in the field of outreach greening, public awareness, Environmental Education and curriculum links with Environmental Education to ensure sustainability of the greening activities. The belief being that if greening activities are linked with the formal school curriculum, greening of the schools will be an ongoing activity even after the end of the programme.

The Greening of the Nation is therefore aimed at the planting of indigenous trees and plants; developing community nurseries for indigenous trees and plants of medicinal value, as reserves for threatened, endangered and extinct plant and tree species; developing various skills to the unemployed South Africans so that by the end of the two years they will be in a position to compete in the job market and to create job opportunities. The expected outcomes at the end of the project are:

"  A Greener and healthier environment in schools that are in the areas where the programme will be implemented

"  Greener and healthier environment in towns that will participate in the Greening of the Nation Programme.

"  Trained and skilled individuals in the Horticultural and Environmental Education field to assist in promoting greening and raising of public awareness

"  World class nurseries that will act as windows and reserves for threatened, endangered, and endemic plant and tree species

"  People that have been working as labourers in the programme trained in various skills that will enable them to improve their lifestyles either through being employable or starting their own businesses.

Interested parties are invited to provide SANBI with an expression of interest and a detailed company or individual profile, specifically referring to relevant experience. Once all expressions have been received, SANBI will call a meeting with the selected service provider.

For further information, please contact Malta Qwathekana at (012) 843 5192/5286 / 083 288 4701 or

Responses can be delivered to Pretoria National Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria, Pretoria; mailed to Private Bag X101, Pretoria, 0001; or emailed to and must be clearly marked for the attention of The Director: Environmental Education.