South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Principal Specialist 1: National Biodiversity Assessment & Monitoring Framework Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) invites applications for a Principal Specialist position based at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, Western Cape. This is a permanent opportunity within the Biodiversity Research, Assessment & Monitoring Division.

This role requires a dedicated individual to provide scientific leadership for the National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA) and the Biodiversity Monitoring Framework for South Africa. The successful candidate will be instrumental in ensuring that national and international biodiversity reporting commitments are met, advising on crucial monitoring and research activities, and leading the maintenance and development of national ecosystem classification systems and maps.

Minimum Requirements

• A relevant degree (NQF Level 7) in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or an equivalent qualification.
• A postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8 or above) in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or an equivalent qualification will be an added advantage.
• 8 years of work experience in the relevant field, with at least 4 years in a first-line management position.
• In-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation.
• In-depth knowledge of South African national, provincial, and local biodiversity assessment and planning products and processes.
• Demonstrable experience in leading and convening biodiversity processes, including strong workshop facilitation, convening, coordination, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrable experience (e.g., authorship) in at least two of the following: biodiversity planning products, key biodiversity areas maps or management plans, critical biodiversity areas mapping or plans, species red listing, ecosystem red listing, biodiversity-related indicators, or national-level biodiversity reporting.
• Strong Geographical Information System (GIS) Spatial analysis expertise.
• Sufficient data science knowledge to drive ongoing innovation for transparent and repeatable online National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA).
• Experience in managing staff and performance, building teams, and human capital development.
• Knowledge of legislation pertaining to biodiversity conservation.
• Knowledge of organisational finance management.
• Project management knowledge and skills.
• Knowledge of Government Human Resource (HR), procurement, and financial management policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion project co-ordination and management for the National Biodiversity Assessment.
• Provide leadership and direction to the National Biodiversity Assessment.
• Develop projects and/or research programmes for the National Biodiversity Assessment.
• Lead ecosystem classification, mapping, and description for the National Biodiversity Assessment.
• Facilitate human capital development and transformation within the business unit.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Please ensure you have the following documents ready:

• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A letter motivating why you should be favourably considered for this position.
• Certified copies of qualifications confirming that you meet the minimum requirements.

Submit your application through the official SANBI careers portal: https://sanbi.simplify.hr/Vacancy/Apply/gsgust

The closing date for applications is 14 August 2026.