Manager / Plant Records : Singapore Botanic Gardens (Contract)

[What the role is]

The Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG) is one of the world's oldest tropical botanical gardens and one of only three botanic gardens globally to be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The successful candidate will support the completion of a comprehensive tree survey across SBG's forested and non-forested areas, which is critical for maintaining the scientific value of our tree collections and ensuring effective tree maintenance operations for overall risk management purposes. The position involves systematic documentation and mapping of approximately 3,000-4,000 remaining trees to complete our inventory across the Gardens.

[What you will be working on]

The successful candidate will work within the Plant Records Unit (PRU) in the Living Collections team to complete the ongoing tree survey project by the end of FY 2026/27. This role involves labour-intensive fieldwork and data management activities essential for updating our tree inventory systems. Due to extensive fieldwork in forested environment, extensive walking is expected.

The manager will be responsible for achieving the completion of the tree survey through the following activities:

• Conducting comprehensive tree surveys in both forested and non-forested areas of SBG to document the remaining approximately 3,000-4,000 trees

• Acquiring accurate on-site data for the high diversity of species present throughout the Gardens

• Verifying site survey results against the existing inventory system

• Processing GIS data in ArcGIS into compatible format for uploading and integration into existing operation systems

The role requires meeting specific completion targets: non-forested areas first, followed by forested areas by the end of March 2027.

[What we are looking for]

• Areas of studies in Botany, Forestry, Environmental Science, GIS, or a related field

• Experience in botanical surveys, tree identification, and/or forestry work

• Proficiency in GIS software, spatial data processing and botanical database systems, preferably BG-Base, BRAHMS or similar botanical databases

• Knowledge of tropical plant taxonomy and tree identification is preferred

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in field data collection and database management

• Proactive and well‑organised, with initiative in following up on survey tasks and documentation requirements.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with the PRU team

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Successful candidates will be offered a 11-month employment contract.