Field Guide Couple

SUMMARY:
Position Overview
A passionate, experienced and professional Field Guiding Couple is required for a luxury 5-star game lodge in the Hoedspruit area.
The couple will be responsible for delivering exceptional safari experiences, including game drives and bush activities, while assisting with overall lodge operations and maintaining the highest standards of guest service.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Field Guiding

• Conduct professional morning and afternoon/evening game drives.
• Conduct guided bush walks where appropriately qualified.
• Provide informative interpretation of wildlife, birds, trees, geology and ecology.
• Share knowledge of the Lowveld, local history and conservation.
• Ensure guests receive personalised and memorable safari experiences.
• Identify and track wildlife and provide interesting and accurate information.
• Conduct photographic and specialist wildlife experiences where required.
• Assist with bush breakfasts, sundowners and other safari activities.
• Maintain excellent relationships with guests throughout their stay.
• Ensure all guest activities are conducted safely and professionally.

• Deliver warm, personalised 5-star hospitality.
• Anticipate guest needs and exceed expectations.
• Assist with guest arrivals, departures and lodge activities when required.
• Handle guest requests professionally.
• Build rapport with international and local guests.
• Deal with guest complaints or concerns calmly and professionally.
• Ensure guest preferences and special occasions are communicated to management.

• Conduct daily vehicle safety and operational checks.
• Keep safari vehicles clean, presentable and properly equipped.
• Report mechanical or maintenance issues immediately.
• Ensure all guiding equipment is properly maintained.
• Maintain accurate vehicle and guiding records.
• Ensure radios, first-aid kits and other required equipment are operational.

• Promote conservation and responsible tourism.
• Educate guests about wildlife protection and environmental initiatives.
• Participate in conservation activities and projects.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the local ecosystem.
• Respect lodge, reserve and wildlife management protocols.

• Assist the Lodge Management team with daily operations.
• Support other departments during busy periods.
• Assist with guest functions, dinners and special events.
• Participate in daily briefings and operational meetings.
• Assist with staff training and mentoring where required.
• Maintain high standards of lodge presentation and service.
• Assist with general lodge duties when required.

POSITION INFO:
Joint Responsibilities as a Couple

• Work together as a professional and cohesive team.
• Support Lodge Management with operational requirements.
• Lead by example and maintain 5-star service standards.
• Assist with staff supervision and mentoring.
• Maintain professional relationships with guests and colleagues.
• Be flexible regarding working hours, weekends and public holidays.
• Assist each other during busy periods.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Represent the lodge positively to guests and suppliers.
• Contribute to creating a warm, welcoming and personalised lodge environment.

• FGASA qualification appropriate to the position.
• Valid First Aid certificate.
• Valid driver's licence.
• PDP advantageous/required where applicable.
• Minimum 2–3 years' experience as a Field Guide.
• Previous experience in a 5-star safari lodge environment preferred.
• Strong knowledge of Lowveld wildlife, birds, trees and ecology.
• Excellent English communication skills.
• Strong guest relations and interpersonal skills.
• Good knowledge of the Hoedspruit/Greater Kruger area advantageous.

• FGASA Advanced Field Guide qualification.
• FGASA Trails Guide qualification.
• Advanced Rifle Handling / relevant firearm competency.
• Specialist birding qualification.
• Back-up Trails Guide experience.
• Previous experience in a luxury safari lodge.
• Previous supervisory or senior guiding experience.
• Photography or specialist safari experience.

• Passionate about wildlife, conservation and the African bush.
• Friendly, energetic and enthusiastic.
• Professional and well presented.
• Guest-focused and service-orientated.
• Excellent communicators and storytellers.
• Mature and responsible.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Team players.
• Able to work independently.
• Comfortable living and working in a remote lodge environment.
• Passionate about delivering an exceptional luxury safari experience.