Camp Manager / Field Guide Couple

Wild Dreams Hospitality; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury lodge in a national park is seeking a Camp Manager and Field Guide. This live-in position requires experience in camp management and field guiding, leadership skills, and a passion for wildlife. Responsibilities include managing guest experiences, staff leadership, and conducting wildlife drives. Candidates must have relevant qualifications, including a FGASA license and First Aid. Competitive benefits are offered, including accommodation and meals.

Benefits

Live-in accommodation

Meals included while on duty

21 days annual leave per year

7 consecutive days off monthly

5% provident fund contribution

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience in camp or lodge management.
• Valid drivers licence and off-road driving proficiency.
• Knowledge of Kruger Park geography preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations and guest experiences.
• Lead and train staff effectively.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Conduct wildlife experiences safely during game drives.

Skills

Leadership and interpersonal skills

Crisis management

Fluency in English

Knowledge of wildlife and local flora

Excellent communication skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Basic mechanical knowledge

Team player

Education

FGASA NQF 4 with Backup Trails

Valid South African Guides Licence

First Aid Certificate

Job description

This is a luxury lodge located within the Mluwati Concession of the Kruger National Park, and forms part of an exclusive group that prides itself on delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.

Camp Manager Requirements :

• Minimum 3 years experience in camp or lodge management
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and crisis management skills
• Must demonstrate maturity, professionalism, and excellent communication skills
• Valid drivers licence and off-road driving proficiency
• First aid training and basic mechanical / electrical knowledge are beneficial
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Knowledge of Kruger Park geography preferred
• Familiarity with South African tourism regulations and Acts
• Fluency in English; Shangaan or related African language advantageous
• Knowledge of foreign languages would be advantageous
• Warm, professional, and guest-centric demeanor
• Adaptable, resilient, and composed under pressure
• Passionate about flora, fauna, and cultural engagement
• Capable of working independently, handling pressure, and taking full responsibility for tasks

Camp Manager Responsibilities :

• Operational Management
• Guest Experience
• Staff Leadership
• Financial Oversight
• Compliance & Sustainability
• Health & Safety
• Reporting & Communication
• Continuous Improvement

Field Guide Requirements :

• Valid South African Guides Licence and PDP
• FGASA NQF 4 with Backup Trails (Lead Trails beneficial)
• DEAT Registration (Mpumalanga)
• Minimum 3 years Big 5 experience as a Field Guide / Ranger
• Valid First Aid certificate to handle trauma care
• Strong communication, hosting, and interpersonal skills with outgoing personality
• Self-disciplined, punctual, and respectful team player
• Basic vehicle maintenance and radio communication knowledge
• Cultural awareness
• Must have an in-depth knowledge of local wildlife, bird species and plant life

Field Guide Responsibilities :

• Conduct game drives, bush walks and other immersive wildlife experiences, ensuring the safety of guests
• Sharing knowledge of wildlife, bird species, plant life, community, ecology and conservation with guests
• Interact professionally with guests and provide excellent customer service
• Hosting of guests at meals and / or for drinks
• Discretely communicate guest preferences and special requirements that were not yet recorded, to the camp manager promptly
• Service of food and beverages according to hygiene standards
• Vehicle and equipment maintenance
• Must be familiar with SANParks rules and regulations related to the reserve
• Comply with game driving protocols
• Provide emergency response if necessary, in accordance with company procedures and first aid protocols
• Camp support (transfers, animal control, guest luggage, maintenance)
• Rifle handing in accordance to protocols

Benefits

• Live in-position with accommodation
• All meals on duty are included
• 7 consecutive days off per month
• 21 consecutive days annual leave per year
• 5% compulsory provident fund contribution

This is a live-in position.