Animal Conservation Worker - Reptiles

Salary Level 5

SANBI offers basic annual salary of R202 233.00

Reference Number: NZG/2024/003

Workstation: Pretoria National Zoological Garden

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for self-motivated individual to care for the National Zoological Garden animals according to the required global standards of animal husbandry and welfare, as well as maintenance and management of their enclosures in which they live.

This position requires a Grade 10, job specific qualification, or equivalent qualification with NQF 2 with 5 years of work experience in the relevant field, or a Grade 12, job specific qualification, or equivalent qualification with NQF 4 with 4 years of work experience in the relevant field. Higher certificate in Nature Conservation or equivalent qualification at NQF 5 will be an added advantage.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: a passion for animals and knowledge of captive animal husbandry; be able to operate and function under pressure and after hours whilst being quality, cost, and safety conscious; proven ability to work with a diverse team and independently; be able to operate within the framework of the approved standard operating procedures; good planning, organizing, interpersonal, time management, and problem solving skills; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written); computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. This position requires the applicant to conduct physical labour and work outdoors in inclement weather. Applicants must be in possession of a valid drivers licence.

Key Performance Responsibilities Include

• Assist with animal display, breeding and capture;
• Perform general animal care, cleaning, & feeding;
• Implement environmental enrichment and animal conditioning training plans;
• Perform pest control and enclosure infrastructure maintenance;
• Perform tool and equipment care; and
• Perform administration, human resources, and stakeholder relations responsibilities.

Please Note

• Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, and certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and relevant experience will not be considered).
• A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
• Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.
• Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall result in your application not being considered.

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.

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 30 days of the closing date, candidates must consider their applications unsuccessful.