Anti-Poaching Patrol / / Tactical Response Officer

Cochrane Global; Lydenburg; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in wildlife conservation is seeking an Anti-Poaching Patrol Ranger/Tactical Response Officer. The role involves conducting patrols, monitoring wildlife, gathering intelligence, and ensuring the safety of protected areas in challenging outdoor environments. Candidates must be physically fit, possess strong ethical values, and have relevant experience in conservation or security. Accommodation and rations may be provided during rotations.

Benefits

Accommodation on-site

Rations provided during shifts

Qualifications

• Previous experience in conservation, military or security preferred.
• Ability to work long hours in harsh environments.
• Fluent in English; additional languages advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily patrols to detect illegal poaching activities.
• Gather intelligence on poaching syndicates and wildlife crime.
• Assist in community engagement efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Skills

Physical fitness

Situational awareness

Communication

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Education

Firearms competency certification

First aid training

Job description

Job Title : Anti-Poaching Patrol Ranger / / Tactical Response officer

Department : Wildlife Protection / Conservation

Reports To : Anti-Poaching Unit Commander / Reserve Security Manager

Job Purpose :

To prevent and respond to illegal poaching activities by conducting foot and vehicle patrols, monitoring wildlife and infrastructure, gathering intelligence, and ensuring the safety and conservation of protected wildlife areas.

Key Responsibilities :

Conduct daily patrols (foot, vehicle, or horseback) across designated areas to detect and deter illegal poaching activity.

Monitor and report signs of illegal activities such as snares, traps, illegal camps, or unauthorized vehicles.

Assist in the apprehension and arrest of poachers when authorized by law and under direction.

Gather and report intelligence relevant to poaching syndicates and wildlife crime.

Monitor movements of high-risk species (e.g. rhino, elephant) and maintain observation logs.

Assist with community engagement efforts to build trust and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Ensure proper use and maintenance of patrol equipment (GPS, radios, weapons, etc.).

Respond to emergency incidents such as wildlife injuries, breaches of fences, or security threats.

Maintain personal fitness, discipline, and readiness for high-risk operations.

Minimum Requirements :

Previous experience in conservation, military, SAPS, security, or anti-poaching preferred.

Physically fit and mentally resilient; able to work long hours in harsh environments.

No criminal record.

Basic knowledge of local flora and fauna.

Ability to work as part of a disciplined team in remote areas.

Fluent in English (additional local languages an advantage).

Valid driver’s license (preferred).

Firearms competency and handling certification (advantageous).

First aid training (advantageous).

Integrity and strong ethical values.

High levels of situational awareness and vigilance.

Ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.

Communication and teamwork skills.

Problem-solving and adaptability.

Respect for conservation goals and wildlife.

Working Conditions :

Based in remote, outdoor environments with limited amenities.

Rotational shifts including weekends, nights, and public holidays.

Exposure to wildlife and potentially dangerous situations.

Accommodation and rations may be provided on-site.

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Tactical Officer • Lydenburg, South Africa