Horticulturist - General Garden

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a passionate and self-motivated individual to fulfill a key horticultural and conservation role by leading the development and maintenance of the General Gardens and herbaceous perennials display garden areas and associated living collections at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

This position requires a degree in Horticulture or equivalent relevant qualification at NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification in Horticulture or equivalent at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 6 years' experience in the relevant field of Horticulture, of which 3 years' must be in a supervisory position as a practicing Horticulturist.

The position is responsible for curating and cultivating a wide range of South African plants and herbaceous perennials with the following key competencies: excellent knowledge of indigenous horticulture maintenance and conservation; knowledge of propagation procedures, protocols and processes; practical experience with propagation facilities; knowledge of field collecting and plant introduction and care; competence in long term curation and maintenance of living plant collections; understanding landscaping using fynbos and natural design elements; leading and managing a team of conservation workers in the garden and nursery collections; knowledge and experience with working with conservation stakeholders; advanced planning, organising and problem solving skills; ability to work under pressure while being safety conscious; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy with MS tools; possession of a valid driver's licence with at least one year practical driving experience.

• Conduct garden display and living collections operations planning, maintenance and development.
• Lead the management of people and maintain high levels of performance.
• Manage the coordination of curation of living collections in both the garden and collections nursery.
• Promote and participate in horticultural, plant conservation and research projects.
• Conduct planning, coordination and implementation of projects to promote the mission of SANBI and Kirstenbosch.

Salary commensurate with a range of inputs and outputs in terms of the SANBI career ladder for horticulturists.

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.