Assistant Head Guide

Kendrick Recruitment; Sol Plaatje Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 254,000 - 304,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live-in position

Flights provided (Cape Town/Johannes)

6 weeks on / 2 weeks off

Career advancement in conservation

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced Assistant Head Guide for a prestigious private wildlife reserve in the Kalahari. This live-in role supports the Head Guide, oversees guiding operations, and mentors junior team members while delivering exceptional guest experiences.

The candidate should have FGASA Level 2/3 Trails, ARH, First Aid Level 1, DEAT registration, a valid Driver’s Licence and PDP, plus 2+ years in guiding management.

Qualifications

• FGASA Level 2/3 Trails and related guiding certifications are required.
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Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Guide in managing day-to-day guiding operations
• Lead guided game drives and interpretive bush walks with emphasis on safety, education, and guest enjoyment
• Mentor junior guides and promote skill development
• Ensure maintenance and care of guiding equipment and safari vehicles
• Coordinate special bush experiences such as walking safaris and bush dinners
• Maintain knowledge of wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts
• Support lodge management in guest hosting and overall guest satisfaction
• Communicate guest preferences and feedback to relevant departments

Skills

FGASA Level 2/3 Trails

ARH

First Aid Level 1

DEAT registration

Driver’s Licence

PDP

Guiding leadership

Guest interaction

Conservation

Remote environment experience

Job description

Assistant Head Guide | Private Wildlife Reserve | Kalahari Salary: R25,000 (Negotiable depending on experience) | Live-in Position Schedule: 6 Weeks On / 2 Weeks Off Flights Provided: Free flights in and out from Cape Town or Johannesburg

Kendrick Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced and motivated Assistant Head Guide for a prestigious private wildlife reserve in the Kalahari. This is an incredible opportunity for a passionate, qualified guide looking to take the next step in their career while working in one of South Africa's most remote and unique safari destinations.

The successful candidate will possess strong leadership skills, outstanding guest interaction abilities, and a deep knowledge of the natural environment. This role supports the Head Guide in overseeing guiding operations and mentoring junior team members, while also delivering exceptional guest experiences in the field.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Head Guide in managing day-to-day guiding operations
• Lead guided game drives and interpretive bush walks with an emphasis on safety, education, and guest enjoyment
• Mentor junior guides, promote skill development, and foster team growth
• Ensure maintenance and care of all guiding equipment and safari vehicles
• Help coordinate and deliver special bush experiences such as walking safaris and bush dinners
• Maintain excellent knowledge of the region’s wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts
• Support lodge management in guest hosting and ensure overall guest satisfaction
• Communicate guest preferences and feedback to relevant departments to enhance service delivery

Requirements:

• FGASA Level 2 or 3 Trails (Lead Trails Guide preferred)
• Valid ARH, First Aid Level 1, and DEAT registration
• Valid Driver’s Licence and PDP
• Minimum 2 years of guiding management experience or 5 years as a senior guide
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a guiding team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong focus on conservation, professionalism, and guest interaction
• Experience in the Kalahari or similar remote environment is an advantage
• Comfortable working under pressure in remote, off-grid settings

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary – R25,000 (Negotiable based on experience)
• Live-in position with all basic amenities provided
• Free flights in and out from Cape Town or Johannesburg for scheduled breaks
• 6 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation
• Excellent opportunity for career advancement within a conservation-driven reserve
• Work with a passionate team committed to wildlife preservation and exceptional safari experiences