The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) invites suitably qualified and motivated individuals to apply for permanent vacancies at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. These SANBI vacancies offer an excellent opportunity to contribute to biodiversity conservation, horticulture excellence, and efficient garden administration within one of South Africa’s most iconic national institutions.
Vacancy Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Employer | South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) |
| Location | Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town |
| Employment Type | Permanent |
| Division | National Botanical Gardens |
| Application Method | Online only |
Post 1: Administration Officer – National Botanical Garden
Post Details
| Post Title | Administration Officer: National Botanical Garden |
| Reference Number | GKBC/2025/002 |
| Closing Date | 24 December 2025 |
| Salary | R325 101.00 per annum |
| Centre | Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town |
Requirements
- National Diploma or Advanced Certificate (NQF 6) in Office Administration / Public Administration or equivalent
- Advanced Diploma or Degree (NQF 7); NQF 8 degree will be an added advantage
- 4 years’ experience with NQF 6 qualification OR
- 2 years’ experience with NQF 7 qualification (1 year in office management/administration)
- Experience in:
- Office management and administration
- Procurement and logistics
- Project and contract management
- Financial management
- Records management and report writing
- Valid driver’s licence with at least 1 year practical driving experience
Key Competencies
- In-depth knowledge of PFMA and Treasury Regulations
- Knowledge of office administration, procurement, logistics, projects and events
- Strong planning, organising and problem-solving skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project, Outlook, Internet)
Key Responsibilities
- Provide garden administration support
- Assist with project, financial and administrative duties
- Manage resources and assets effectively
- Support human resources, marketing, communication and customer services
- Public relations, risk, safety and customer service support
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only and include:
- Motivation letter
- Concise CV
- Certified qualifications
- At least three contactable referees
To apply and for more details, visit:
To apply and more details visit SANBI official website:
https://sanbi.simplify.hr/Vacancy/Apply/rtweu9
Post 2: Horticulturist
Post Details
| Post Title | Horticulturist |
| Reference Number | GKBC/2025/016 |
| Closing Date | 22 December 2025 |
| Salary | Commensurate with SANBI career ladder |
| Centre | Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town |
Requirements
- Degree in Horticulture or equivalent (NQF 7)
- Postgraduate qualification (NQF 8) will be an added advantage
- 6 years’ horticulture experience, including 3 years in a supervisory role
- Valid driver’s licence with at least 1 year practical driving experience
Key Competencies
- Extensive knowledge of indigenous horticulture and conservation
- Expertise in Proteaceae and Restionaceae cultivation
- Knowledge of plant propagation, field collecting, and plant introduction
- Experience managing living plant collections
- Landscaping using fynbos and natural design principles
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Excellent planning, organisation and problem-solving abilities
- Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project, Outlook)
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, maintain and develop garden displays and living collections
- Lead and manage horticultural teams and conservation workers
- Coordinate curation of living collections (garden and nursery)
- Participate in horticultural, conservation and research projects
- Implement projects aligned to SANBI and Kirstenbosch objectives
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only and include:
- Motivation letter
- Concise CV
- Certified qualifications
- At least three contactable referees
To apply and more details visit SANBI official website:
https://sanbi.simplify.hr/Vacancy/162110
Important Notes
- Only online applications will be accepted
- A competency test will form part of the selection process
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- SANBI applies Employment Equity principles in all appointments
- SANBI reserves the right not to fill the advertised posts
If you are passionate about biodiversity, horticulture, or professional administration within a world-class botanical environment, don’t miss these SANBI Vacancies at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Apply before the closing dates to be considered.