PRECIS Information Officer
(Graded as Senior Agricultural Scientist)
(Salary Level 8)
Data Management Section, Pretoria
Closing Date: Friday 6 February 2009 at 16:00
This position entails the scientific and technical editing of botanical information, the mapping and management of the plant distribution and shape file data set, as well as the capturing of data requiring scientific interpretation.
More specifically, the appointee will be tasked with:
• scientific and technical editing of herbarium specimen label information and other botanical data • managing the plant family shape file data set • scientific editing of plant distribution data • producing distribution maps for internal and external clients using ArcGIS 9.x. • supervising the data typist • capturing data requiring scientific interpretation • providing support and training to end-users.
Appointment therefore requires either a BSc (Hons) with at least three years’ experience, or an MSc with at least one year’s experience in a relevant field in Botany or Plant Ecology. Relevant skills, experience and an interest in scientific and technical editing, coupled with accuracy and an eye for detail, are essential. Sound knowledge of information recorded in association with plant collections is a further requirement, while experience in plant specimen collection and herbarium procedures will be an advantage.
In addition, applicants must be proficient in MS Office and display an excellent command of spoken and written English, while fluency in another official language would be an advantage. A good publication record (scientific, semi-scientific or popular) that demonstrates the candidate’s proficiency in written English, would be advantageous. A valid Code B driver’s licence and one year’s practical driving experience plus willingness to travel occasionally, complete the requirements.
SANBI offers an annual salary of R145 920 and additional fringe benefits, which include attractive medical aid and pension schemes.
Please Note: 1) Applications must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position and confirming that the minimum qualifications are met. 2) A competency test may be conducted as part of the selection process.
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 considered. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. 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 21 working days of the closing date, candidates may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.
Enquiries: Ms Emmy Tsienyane on 012 843 5217 or at tsienyane@sanbi.org.
To apply, contact Mr Stanley Chauke on 012 843 5217 or, preferably, forward a letter and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org or fax 012 843 5263. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Deputy Director: HR, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X101, Pretoria 0001.
