SANBI: Horticultural Conservation Worker 4

SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Horticultural Conservation Worker, based at the renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the conservation and maintenance of South Africa’s rich botanical heritage within one of the world’s most famous botanical gardens. Candidates passionate about horticulture and biodiversity conservation are encouraged to apply.

Position: Horticultural Conservation Worker 4
Reference Number: GKBC/2025/011
Basic Annual Salary: R193,359.00
Salary Level: 4
Division: National Botanical Gardens Division
Location: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town

Job Overview

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) seeks a self-motivated individual to maintain and develop the garden and pot plant collection at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The role focuses on garden planning, development, maintenance, plant propagation, conservation support, and customer service, with a strong emphasis on promoting the use of indigenous plants and advancing SANBI’s mission to ensure sustainable use and conservation of South African flora.

Minimum Requirements
  • Option 1: Grade 10, Job-Specific Qualification, or equivalent at NQF 2, with 4 years of work experience in horticulture and garden maintenance.
  • Option 2: Grade 12, Job-Specific Qualification, or equivalent at NQF 4, with 3 years of work experience in horticulture and garden maintenance.
  • Advantage: A Higher Education Qualification, Job-Specific Qualification, or equivalent at NQF 5.
Required Competencies
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to communicate in English (read and write).
  • Horticulture training and knowledge.
  • Experience in garden-related maintenance work.
  • Proficiency in the use of pesticides and insecticides.
Key Performance Responsibilities
  • Support garden planning, development, and maintenance activities.
  • Propagate plants and ensure their ongoing care and maintenance.
  • Assist in managing equipment and tools used in horticultural operations.
  • Provide support to internal and external clients.
  • Adhere to all health and safety requirements.

Required Documents:

  • A concise CV.
  • A motivation letter explaining why the applicant is suitable for the position.
  • Certified qualifications confirming that minimum requirements are met (applications lacking evidence of qualifications or experience will not be considered).
  • Full names, addresses, telephone numbers, and, if possible, email addresses of at least three referees.

Additional Notes:

  • A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
  • Failure to submit all requested information and the reference number will result in the application not being considered.
    Personal Information Processing

    Personal information, including special personal information, will be processed by SANBI to assess suitability for the position. SANBI may share this information with service providers or third parties, both within South Africa and internationally, for verification of qualifications, background checks, reference checks, competency assessments, and criminal record checks. By applying, candidates acknowledge that SANBI’s authorized agents and service providers will access their personal information for these purposes. For more details, refer to SANBI’s website.

    Equity and Accessibility
    • Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
    • Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with SANBI’s Employment Equity Plan.
    • SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position.
    Contact Information

    For queries, contact Ms. Naomi Essop at:

    • Telephone: +27 (0)21 799 8800/8428

    Closing Date

    Applications must be submitted by 19 September 2025.

    Selection Process
    • Candidates must be available for selection interviews on a date and time determined by SANBI.
    • If no response is received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates should consider their applications unsuccessful.
    Application Process

    Online Applications Only: Applications must be submitted via the online portal:

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