Field Guide

SUMMARY:
Scope and General Purpose: The Field Guide / Safari Ranger delivers exceptional safari experiences through guided game drives and bush walks within the private game reserve, focusing on wildlife interpretation, conservation education, guest safety, and world-class five-star lodge hospitality.

Key Responsibilities: Guest Safari Experience
Conduct guided game drives in open safari vehicles within the reserve.
Conduct guided bush walks where permitted and in accordance with safety procedures.
Provide engaging wildlife interpretation covering fauna, flora, ecosystems, and conservation.
Share knowledge and answer guest questions regarding wildlife, ecology, and the environment.
Deliver a memorable, informative, and entertaining safari experience aligned with luxury lodge standards.
Ensure guests feel welcome, comfortable, and safe throughout the safari experience.
Tailor safari experiences to guest interests, age groups, and cultural backgrounds.
Assist with wake-up calls for early morning safari departures when required.
Host guests during safari-related experiences including bush breakfasts, sundowner stops, bush braais, dam safaris, and guided walks.

Guest Safety and Risk Management
Ensure the safety of guests at all times during safari activities.
Avoid exposing guests to potentially dangerous situations.
Provide clear safety briefings before every safari activity.
Maintain strict adherence to reserve vehicle and wildlife interaction rules.
Carry appropriate safety equipment including first aid kits and communication radios.
Follow emergency procedures in the event of incidents, injuries, or wildlife encounters.
Participate in emergency drills including fire and evacuation exercises.

Conservation and Environmental Responsibility
Act as a conservation ambassador and promote responsible environmental practices.
Protect the natural environment and wildlife within the reserve.
Ensure guests respect wildlife and adhere to conservation guidelines.
Report environmental issues or wildlife concerns to the Wildlife Services Manager.
Educate guests on the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism.
Follow ethical guiding standards as governed by FGASA.

Reserve Rules and Compliance
Explain reserve rules and regulations to guests prior to safari activities.
Ensure guests adhere to reserve safety policies and environmental guidelines.
Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to game drives, guided bush walks, dam safaris, bush picnics/breakfasts/braais, and other safari activities.
Maintain valid FGASA, DEAT, and other relevant professional memberships.

Additional Guest Activities
Promote and assist with outdoor activities offered within the reserve, including Horse Trails, Quad Bike Adventure Trails, Ground Hornbill Conservation Project, and outdoor picnics.
Familiarise with the SOPs and safety procedures for each activity.

Vehicle and Equipment Management
Maintain responsibility for the assigned safari vehicle.
Conduct full vehicle inspections before every game drive.
Ensure vehicles are clean, safe, and in good mechanical condition.
Report any mechanical faults immediately to the maintenance department.
Ensure vehicles are returned to the designated workshop area after drives and not parked in staff quarters or unauthorized areas.
Maintain and care for guiding equipment including binoculars, radios, first aid kits, rifles (where applicable), and all other OE.

Guest Service and Lodge Representation
Represent the lodge professionally at all times and maintain excellent guest relations.
Assist guests with luggage when required and with guest orientation on arrival or during activities.
Ensure guests receive a personalized and memorable safari experience.
Maintain a professional appearance and grooming standards.

Photography and Content Contribution
Capture wildlife photographs during guiding activities when possible.
Submit a minimum of three digital photographs per week to the Head Guide to use in his report.
Assist in building photographic content for marketing and guest engagement.

Industry Awareness and Development
Stay informed about developments and trends in the safari and tourism industry.
Continuously improve knowledge of wildlife, ecology, and conservation practices.
Attend training sessions and guiding workshops where required.
Make suggestions to management regarding improvements to guest safari experiences.

Health, Safety and Compliance
Follow all Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
Participate in fire drills and emergency evacuation exercises.
Ensure safety equipment is always functional and available.
Adhere to reserve policies and guiding standards at all times.

Professional Conduct & Personal Presentation
Conduct themselves in accordance with FGASA guiding ethics.
Show respect to guests regardless of culture, nationality, or background.
Maintain professional behaviour at all times and act as responsible custodians of the reserve environment.
Maintain a neat, clean, and professional appearance, wear appropriate guiding uniform and safety equipment, and adhere to company dress code and grooming standards.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirement

• DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration
• Valid South African Driver’s Licence
• Valid PDP (Professional Driving Permit)
• Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 1 or higher)
• FGASA Level 1 Qualification (or higher)
• SASSETA Certification (where applicable)
• Rifle Competency (SAPS)
• Valid International Driver’s Permit (if applicable)
• Previous guiding experience in a game reserve environment preferred