Field guide

SUMMARY:
An exclusive 5 Star Lodge in the Eastern Cape is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Field Guide to lead game drives and nature experiences. The ideal candidate is passionate about wildlife conservation, guest engagement, and delivering exceptional safari experiences in line with 5-star hospitality standards.

About the Role:

• Conduct guided game drives and bush walks, ensuring guest safety at all times
• Interpret wildlife behavior, ecology, and the natural environment for guests
• Deliver engaging, informative, and memorable safari experiences
• Ensure vehicles and equipment are well-maintained and safari-ready
• Assist with tracking animals and monitoring wildlife activity
• Provide excellent guest service, building rapport and ensuring satisfaction
• Work closely with lodge staff to coordinate guest activities and schedules
• Uphold conservation principles and lodge policies at all times

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead game drives and bush walks, ensuring guest safety and exceptional safari experiences
• Share knowledge of wildlife, ecology, and conservation in an engaging manner
• Provide personalized guest interaction and adapt to different preferences and cultures
• Assist with food and beverage service during safaris, maintaining hygiene standards
• Conduct daily vehicle and equipment checks, ensuring safety and readiness
• Follow conservation guidelines and reserve regulations at all times
• Handle emergencies calmly and provide first aid when required
• Support lodge operations, including guest transfers, luggage, and maintenance assistance
• Safely handle and maintain firearms in line with SOPs and regulations
• Self-disciplined, punctual and respectful.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for international guests with diverse cultures. Must have an outgoing hosting personality.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for staff, being respectful of their culture. A basic knowledge of Shangaan or another African language is recommended.
• Must be familiar with basic vehicle maintenance in order to communicate with the maintenance team to troubleshoot problems.
• Must be familiar with how to drive in a variety of on- and off-road conditions.
• Must be familiar with radio etiquette and able to ensure that radio conversations are kept short and direct, with no unnecessary chatter.
• Good initiative to cope with difficult situations in a remote environment.
• A valid first aid training certificate to handle trauma care.

• A valid and current South African guide’s licence and valid PrDP special driver’s licence.
• FGASA Qualification Minimum of NQF 4 with Backup Trails. Lead Trails will be a bonus.
• DEAT Registration (Mpumalanga).
• 3 Years Experience as a Field Guide/Ranger in a Big Five Game Reserve

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• On-site accommodation and meals provided while on duty
• Uniform