Overview

Job Purpose

Lead and supervise seed collection, seed processing, and storing activities. Works to secure seeds and genetic materials of native plant species, support the nursery with the required seeds and cuttings, development of the seed bank to highly stranded global seed banks,  management of the seed bank database.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Lead the development of native plant seeds bank of AlUla to ensure conservation of native plant species.
2. Plan, coordinate, and oversee the native plant seeds collection campaigns from the different habitats and plant communities in the region.
3. Ensure the selection of high quality for seed bank and carry out germination tests for the different plant species seeds.
4. Develop technical papers about native plant seeds collection, storage, seeds viability, and germination treatments and disseminate scientific information.
5. Lead an operational plan to support native plant seeds demand of RCU plant nursey and ecosystem restoration research and development projects.
6. Ensure the achievement of RCU KPIs regarding number of native plant species to be produced and planted in AlUla.
7. Develop and maintain the native seed bank GIS based database and submit periodical reports regarding the updated seed bank stock and conditions.
8. Lead and implement plant survey to identify proper natural areas and times for seeds collection campaigns.
9. Lead the development of mother plants and propagation fields of native trees, shrubs, forbs, and grasses species.
10. Lead and implement plan to identify and conserve endangered plant species in AlUla.
11. Identifying and adopt best practices and technologies for seeds collection, process, storage, and treatments.
12. Develop and submit monthly and annual reports to the administration/department.
13. Perform any other job related duties as required by the direct Manager.

Job Requirements

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Botany, Plant ecology, Environmental Science, Rangelands or equivalent (Masters Preferred).

Work Experience

• 8 years of relevant experience

Other Requirements

• Written and Oral proficiency of English language.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Database management and GIS knowledge and skills are preferred.
• Experience with the use of software for data recording and management.
• Experience in collecting and processing native plants seeds.
• Strong plant identification skills and familiarity with plant ecology and native flora of Saudi Arabia.
• Demonstrated work experience on leading projects for the development of native seeds bank.