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The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) offers an exciting opportunity to work in one of South Africa’s leading organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. With competitive salaries, diverse roles, and a chance to contribute to impactful projects that protect biodiversity and promote eco-tourism, SANBI is an attractive employer for young professionals passionate about conservation, tourism, and public service
For individuals seeking entry-level positions , SANBI offers diverse opportunities in areas such as conservation, environmental management, botany, administration, HR, finance, IT, marketing, and field operations . These roles provide young professionals with hands-on experience in biodiversity conservation, exposure to impactful projects, and opportunities for career growth within a structured and inclusive work environment.
Popular Entry-Level Roles at SANBI
Entry-level roles at SANBI are ideal for individuals passionate about biodiversity, conservation, and environmental education. These positions provide hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization, offering opportunities to contribute to sustainable development while gaining skills in a unique sector.
SANBI emphasizes capacity building and often targets youth or candidates from historically disadvantaged backgrounds as part of its Employment Equity goals.
Common Entry-Level Roles
- Conservation Assistant: Assisting with fieldwork, biodiversity monitoring, and alien plant removal in botanical gardens or reserves.
- Horticultural Assistant: Supporting plant cultivation, garden maintenance, and visitor engagement in national botanical gardens.
- Administrative Clerk: Handling clerical tasks such as data entry, filing, or visitor inquiries at SANBI offices or gardens.
- Education Officer Assistant: Assisting with environmental education programs, school tours, or community outreach.
- General Worker: Performing maintenance, cleaning, or basic operational tasks at SANBI facilities.
Salaries for Entry-Level Positions at SANBI
Salaries for entry-level roles at SANBI are aligned with South Africa’s public sector pay scales, typically starting at lower levels (e.g., Salary Levels 2–5), with adjustments for inflation and role-specific demands as of March 2025. Below are approximate monthly ranges based on industry trends and general public sector data:
- Conservation Assistant: ZAR 10,000–ZAR 14,000 (ZAR 120,000–ZAR 168,000 annually).
- Horticultural Assistant: ZAR 10,000–ZAR 14,000 (ZAR 120,000–ZAR 168,000 annually).
- Administrative Clerk: ZAR 12,000–ZAR 16,000 (ZAR 144,000–ZAR 192,000 annually).
- Education Officer Assistant: ZAR 10,000–ZAR 14,000 (ZAR 120,000–ZAR 168,000 annually).
- General Worker: ZAR 9,000–ZAR 12,000 (ZAR 108,000–ZAR 144,000 annually).
Benefits: Permanent staff may receive benefits such as medical aid, pension contributions, and access to professional development programs. Temporary or contract roles (e.g., internships) may offer stipends without additional perks. Salaries can vary based on funding, location (e.g., urban vs. rural postings), and specific roles, with potential increases after probation or with experience.
Requirements for Entry-Level Jobs at SANBI
SANBI sets accessible requirements to attract candidates passionate about biodiversity and conservation, prioritizing potential and commitment over extensive qualifications. General criteria include:
- Education:
- Matric/Grade 12 (NQF Level 4) with basic literacy and numeracy for most roles (e.g., General Worker, Horticultural Assistant).
- For roles like Administrative Clerk or Education Officer Assistant, a relevant certificate (e.g., in Office Administration, Environmental Education) is a plus but not mandatory.
- Experience: None typically required; 0–1 year of related experience (e.g., volunteering in conservation, customer service) is advantageous.
How to Apply for Entry-Level Jobs at SANBI
Applying for SANBI entry-level jobs typically follows a standardized public sector process, primarily online via their official careers portal, with updates as of March 2025. Here’s how to proceed:
- Find Vacancies:
- Visit www.sanbi.org and navigate to the “Careers” section (often under “Work With Us” or “Opportunities”).
- Check sanbi.simplify.hr (SANBI’s recruitment portal) for current listings.