The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Driver 2: Heavy Motor Vehicle at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. This permanent position offers an annual salary of R201,093 and provides an excellent opportunity for experienced heavy vehicle drivers seeking stable employment within a respected government institution.
About the Position
SANBI is looking for a dedicated and self-motivated individual to provide logistical support for the maintenance and development of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The successful candidate will be responsible for transporting staff, goods, equipment, and materials while also assisting with conservation and maintenance activities within the garden.
This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating various types of vehicles and machinery, and contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following qualification and experience requirements:
- Grade 10 or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 2 with at least four years of relevant experience; or
- Grade 12 or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 4 with at least three years of relevant experience.
A qualification at NQF Level 5 or higher will be advantageous.
Candidates must also possess:
- A valid Code C (Heavy Motor Vehicle) driver’s licence.
- A valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
- Relevant experience operating heavy vehicles and machinery.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will perform a variety of driving and support functions, including:
Transportation Services
- Transport staff to and from work using a 60-seater bus.
- Transport passengers, equipment, goods, and materials safely and efficiently.
- Collect materials required for orders and operations.
- Operate vehicles both within and outside SANBI premises.
Vehicle Operations and Maintenance
- Drive trucks, tractors, buses, and other SANBI vehicles.
- Operate TLB machinery when required.
- Conduct daily vehicle inspections.
- Check oil, water, fuel levels, and warning lights before operating vehicles.
- Report defects and maintenance issues to supervisors immediately.
- Ensure vehicles are properly maintained and garaged.
Conservation and Garden Support
- Assist with lawn mowing and grass-cutting operations.
- Support machine operators with maintenance activities.
- Help with the production of mulch, compost, and wood chips.
- Load and offload plant material and equipment.
- Participate in exhibitions, displays, and plant-collecting trips.
Environmental and Recycling Duties
- Collect recyclable materials from designated collection points.
- Sort and transport recyclable materials to recycling stations.
- Report plant pests and diseases observed during daily duties.
Emergency and Safety Support
- Assist with wildfire fighting operations.
- Participate in emergency response activities when required.
- Adhere to all safety regulations and traffic laws.
- Ensure passenger safety at all times.
Skills and Competencies Required
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Safe and responsible driving practices.
- Knowledge of heavy vehicle operations.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
- Attention to detail during inspections and maintenance checks.
- Physical fitness for outdoor work and manual tasks.
- Commitment to safety and environmental conservation.
Working Conditions
The position requires flexibility and a willingness to:
- Work weekends according to a roster.
- Perform standby and sleep-in duties.
- Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Travel outside SANBI premises when necessary.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This vacancy offers several benefits:
- Permanent employment.
- Stable government-sector work environment.
- Opportunity to work at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
- Exposure to conservation and environmental management activities.
- Competitive annual salary package.
- Valuable experience operating a variety of heavy vehicles and machinery.
Application Requirements
Interested applicants must submit:
- A completed online application.
- A comprehensive and updated CV.
- A motivation letter explaining their suitability for the position.
- Certified copies of qualifications.
- Contact details for at least three referees.
Only online applications will be considered.
Closing Date
Applications close on 24 June 2026.
Candidates who meet the requirements and possess a valid Code C licence with PDP are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. This is an excellent opportunity to secure a permanent position with SANBI while contributing to the preservation and maintenance of one of South Africa’s most celebrated botanical gardens.