Re-advertisement- Senior Curator Aquarium: Fish, amphibians, fur seals and penguins
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Pretoria Central, Gauteng
Permanent
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Posted 11 December 2024 - Closing Date 03 January 2025

Job Details

Job Description

Salary Level 10

SANBI offers basic annual salary of R552 081.00

Reference Number: NZG/2024/013

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.

This position requires 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.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: 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 as well as a valid Class V (or higher) Commercial Dive qualification.  Candidates must be willing to be trained as a Commercial Dive Supervisor.

 Key Performance Responsibilities include:

  • Lead the development of operational plans and contribute to the development of strategy for the animal collection and conservation directorate;
  • Build an engaging animal collection display of conservation importance that increases public science awareness and improves visitor experience;
  • 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 wildlife in human care;
  • Manage outputs such as the daily husbandry and welfare activities, section projects, animal capture operations, infrastructure projects, administration requirements and public needs;
  • Manage a team in respect of outputs, staff relations, performance management, mentoring and skills development; and
  • Support governance, risk and compliance though budget management, asset and equipment management and health and safety requirements relating to the assigned section.
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  1. Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met, ID copy, Commercial Dive Card and Drivers Licence (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and relevant experience will not be considered).
  2. A competency test might 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.

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.