Assistant Lodge Manager

HotelJobs; Hluhluwe; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live-in accommodation

Meals on duty

Groceries provided off duty

Provident fund

Job summary

HotelJobs is seeking an energetic Assistant Manager to oversee daily operations at a camp, ensuring high guest service standards and smooth activities. The role requires hands-on leadership, the ability to work independently, and effective decision-making under pressure.

This position includes live‑in accommodation and meals on duty, with a focus on maintaining professional service while managing a small team in a safari environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in hospitality, lodge or camp management.
• Valid driver’s license – essential.
• First Aid Level 1 preferred.
• Experience supervising or managing staff is advantageous.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the camp.
• Ensure smooth guest services and activities.
• Resolve operational issues quickly and professionally.
• Assist guests with queries, requests and complaints.
• Supervise and support staff during daily operations.
• Delegate tasks and ensure timely completion.

Skills

Guest relations

Staff supervision

Operational planning

Problem-solving

Communication

Independence

Education

Experience in hospitality management

Job description

Position Overview

We are looking for an energetic, responsible and hands‑on Assistant Manager to join our small and close-knit team. The successful candidate will be required to assist with the day‑to‑day running of the camp, handle operational issues independently and ensure that guests receive a high standard of service. This is a hands‑on position suited to someone who is confident, approachable and able to use their own initiative. The successful candidate must be comfortable working independently, handling pressure and managing staff in a respectful and professional manner.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the overall day-to-day operations of the camp.
• Ensure smooth running of camp activities and guest services.
• Handle and resolve day-to-day camp issues efficiently and professionally.
• Assist with guest queries, requests and complaints.
• Maintain a high level of guest service and hospitality standards.
• Supervise and support staff during daily operations.
• Delegate tasks and ensure that duties are completed correctly and on time.
• Address staff-related matters confidently, fairly and respectfully.
• Ensure a positive and professional working environment.
• Work independently and make sound decisions when required.
• Take initiative when dealing with operational challenges.
• Assist with stock control and general camp requirements.
• Ensure camp areas and facilities are maintained to the required standards.
• Assist management with administrative and operational duties.
• Lead by example and actively participate in camp activities and tasks.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Work effectively under pressure and remain calm in challenging situations.
• Ensure that personal relationships do not interfere with professional responsibilities.

Minimum Requirements

• Valid driver's licence – Essential .
• At least 1 year of previous experience in a similar hospitality, lodge or camp management role .
• Valid First Aid Level 1 – Preferred .
• Previous experience supervising or managing staff will be advantageous.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Strong sense of responsibility and accountability.

Personal Attributes

• Energetic; enthusiastic and hands‑on.
• Friendly; approachable and positive.
• Eager to learn and willing to get involved in all aspects of camp operations.
• Confident when dealing with staff and guests.
• Mature and professional in their approach.
• Able to use initiative and make decisions independently.
• Respectful and fair when managing staff.
• Adaptable and able to work in a small, close‑knit team.
• Able to maintain professional boundaries and separate work from personal relationships.
• Comfortable working and living in close quarters with other team members.
• Reliable; trustworthy and committed.

Benefits

• Live-in accommodation
• Meals while on duty
• A variety of groceries provided while off duty
• Compulsory provident fund

Ideal Candidate Profile

This role would suit someone who enjoys the hospitality and safari environment, is not afraid to get their hands dirty and is willing to step in wherever needed. As the team is small, the successful candidate must be a team player who is flexible, energetic and willing to take responsibility. The successful candidate must be able to work independently, remain professional under pressure and confidently handle both guests and staff while contributing positively to the team environment.