Field Guide

Bushwise; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A wildlife conservation organization in Mossel Bay is seeking a Field Guide for a short-term contract. The role involves conducting guided activities and ensuring a safe and engaging experience for guests within a bush reserve. Candidates must have a Nature Site Guide qualification (NQF Level 2), valid Professional Driving Permit, and First Aid certification. Accommodation and meals are typically provided on-site. This is an opportunity to integrate into a dedicated team while promoting conservation and ethical tourism values.

Benefits

Accommodation provided

Meals provided

Qualifications

• Qualified as a Nature Site Guide (NQF Level 2) is essential.
• Must possess a valid Professional Driving Permit.
• Need to have a valid First Aid certification (minimum Level 1).
• Rifle competency may be required depending on reserve requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interpretive game drives and guided activities.
• Engage guests with accurate wildlife and ecology interpretation.
• Maintain high standards of guest care and professionalism.
• Ensure guiding activities comply with reserve rules.

Skills

Guiding Wildlife

Guest Engagement

Safety Compliance

Conservation Awareness

Education

Nature Site Guide qualification – NQF Level 2

Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)

Valid First Aid certification (Level 1)

Job description

Role Overview

The Field Guide is responsible for delivering safe, engaging, and informative guiding experiences within a wildlife and conservation-focused reserve environment. This short-term contract role is ideal for a qualified guide who can integrate quickly into an established team, uphold high professional standards, and contribute positively to guest experience and daily field operations.

Key Responsibilities

Guiding & Guest Experience

• Conduct interpretive game drives and guided activities appropriate to qualification and experience level
• Engage guests with accurate, engaging, and professional interpretation of wildlife, ecology, and conservation
• Maintain a high standard of guest care, hosting, and professionalism

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all guiding activities are conducted safely and in accordance with reserve rules and standard operating procedures
• Maintain legal compliance at all times, including valid guiding permits and logbooks
• Operate safari vehicles responsibly and professionally

Operational Support

• Assist with daily vehicle checks, equipment preparation, and post-activity procedures
• Work collaboratively with other guides, lodge staff, and management
• Support general camp operations when required

Conservation & Ethics

• Promote conservation awareness and responsible tourism principles
• Uphold ethical guiding practices and respect for wildlife at all times

Benefits

Minimum Requirements

• Nature Site Guide qualification – NQF Level 2 (essential)
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Valid First Aid certification (minimum Level 1)
• Rifle competency (where applicable to reserve requirements)
• Ability to commit fully to the 3-month contract period

Desirable Attributes

• Previous experience guiding in a wildlife or reserve environment
• Strong communication and guest engagement skills
• Professional, reliable, and adaptable approach
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a remote environment
• Strong alignment with conservation and ethical tourism values

Working Conditions

• Fixed-term, on-site role within a bush or reserve environment
• Shift work including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays
• Accommodation and meals typically provided on-site