Field Guide – Fm2714

Farm Manager Sa; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 89,000 - 112,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private accommodation

Meals provided

Laundry facilities

Uniform provided

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment in Hoedspruit is seeking an Afrikaans-speaking Field Guide to join a luxury safari lodge. You will conduct Big 5 game drives, lead guided walks, host guests and upsell experiences while maintaining safety and guest comfort.

The role suits a mature, self-driven individual with a love of nature and excellent hosting skills. A valid Field Guide qualification, PDP, and firearms competency are essential, with fluency in Afrikaans or Dutch highly valued.

Qualifications

• FGASA Field Guide qualification required.
• CATHSSETA certificate and NDT registration preferred.
• Previous guiding experience in a Big 5 reserve is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality Big 5 game drives.
• Lead guided walks on lodge property.
• Host guests at dinner and throughout stay.
• Upsell additional game drives and activities.
• Ensure guest safety and comfort during safari activities.
• Maintain guiding equipment and vehicles.

Skills

Wildlife knowledge

Guest interaction

Communication

Upselling

Education

FGASA Level 1

CATHSSETA certificate

NDT Registration

Job description

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Field Guide to join a luxury hotel in Hoedspruit, Mpumalanga. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic guide who is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences and sharing their knowledge of the African bush.

Minimum Requirement

• DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration


• Valid South African Drivers Licence


• Valid PDP (Professional Driving Permit)


• Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 1 or higher)


• FGASA Level 1 Qualification (or higher)


• SASSETA Certification (where applicable)


• Rifle Competency (SAPS)


• Valid International Drivers Permit (if applicable)


• Previous guiding experience in a game reserve environment preferred

Looking for an Afrikaans speaking Field Guide to start immediately. This is a guiding role suited to a mature, self-driven individual with a genuine love of nature and people; someone with a warm, engaging personality and a good sense of humour who thrives hosting guests.

Core Criteria:

• FGASA Field Guide Qualification, CATHSSETA certificate and NDT Registration


• Minimum 2â4 years' guiding experience in a Big 5 reserve


• Valid Driver's Licence, PDP and First Aid certification


• Fluent in Afrikaans, Dutch or Flemish (non-negotiable)


• Clear criminal record and strong, verifiable employment history


• Strong hosting and guest interaction skills; confident upselling additional activities


• Sound knowledge of Waterberg ecology, flora and fauna preferred


• Maintenance and basic mechanical ability highly regarded


• Own transport preferred; candidates without a vehicle must present a transport plan at interview


• South African citizens or candidates with valid work authorisation

Core Responsibilities:

• Conduct high-quality Big 5 game drives within the neighbouring reserve


• Lead short guided walks on the lodge's own plains-game property


• Host guests at dinner and throughout their stay, building strong guide‑guest rapport


• Upsell additional game drives and guest activities


• Lead experiences such as stargazing, bush talks, storytelling and kids' activities


• Assist with airport transfers and off-site activities, including packing lunches and drinks


• Conduct safety briefings, risk assessments and maintain radios and safety equipment


• Carry out daily vehicle checks, basic mechanical troubleshooting and equipment care


• Communicate guest movements and schedules clearly with management and FOH


• Maintain stock, cleanliness and order relating to all guiding activities

On Offer:

• Salary: R8,000 â R10,000 per month, depending on experience


• Guides keep their own individual guest tips (not part of the shared staff tip pool)


• Lunch and dinner provided during rostered duty


• Private bedroom in senior staff quarters with own bathroom and kitchenette


• Water and electricity included; uniform provided (excluding footwear)


• Self-service laundry facilities available


• 6 days off per month; 15 days annual leave per annum


• Live-in position; remote, single accommodation (unfortunately unable to accommodate family, children or pets)

Key responsibilities:

Conduct engaging and informative game drives and guided bush walks.

Share knowledge of wildlife, birdlife, flora and fauna with guests.

Ensure the safety and comfort of guests during all safari activities.

Deliver exceptional guest experiences in line with luxury hospitality standards.

Maintain the game drive vehicle and guiding equipment to a high standard.

Assist with general lodge operations and guest activities when required.

Follow all relevant safety procedures and conservation guidelines.

Requirements:

A valid and relevant Field Guide qualification.

Previous experience in a luxury lodge or safari environment would be advantageous.

Strong knowledge of the local wildlife, ecosystems and conservation practices.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

A professional, enthusiastic and guest-focused approach.

A valid driving licence and relevant guiding permits.

The ability to work flexible hours and thrive in a remote lodge environment.

Salary: Negotiable, depending on experience.

• Excellent communication skills in English


• Firearms Competency


• Additional languages advantageous


• Physically fit

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• FGASA 1 Qualification


• Minimum 2 years guiding experience


• Valid drivers license and PDP


• 4 X 4 driving experience (advantageous)


• Excellent communication skills in English


• Firearms Competency


• Additional languages advantageous


• Physically fit

ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted