Head Ranger

Bright Placements (PTY) Ltd; Mpumalanga; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 340,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Placements (PTY) Ltd seeks a seasoned Field Guide with at least 5 years in guiding and 2+ years in supervisory roles for a luxury safari lodge in South Africa. The ideal candidate will mentor guiding teams, lead guest wildlife interpretation, and ensure safety in remote environments.

Weekend and holiday work may be required. Possession of FGASA qualifications and a valid driver’s license are essential.

Qualifications

• FGASA Level 2 or higher (Level 3 advantageous).
• FGASA Lead Trails Guide qualification (advantageous).
• DEAT / NDT Registered Guide.
• First Aid Level 1 Certificate.
• Driver's Licence with PrDP.
• Rifle proficiency and firearm competency (where applicable).

Skills

Leadership

Guiding and interpretation

Wildlife knowledge

Guest relations

Problem-solving

Safety and risk management

Ability to work under pressure

Organisational planning

Professional appearance

Education

FGASA Level 2

FGASA Lead Trails Guide

DEAT / NDT Registered Guide

First Aid Level 1

Driver's Licence with PrDP

Rifle proficiency / firearm competency

Tools

Vehicle maintenance

Firearm handling

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

• FGASA Level 2 or higher (Level 3 advantageous)
• Valid FGASA Lead Trails Guide qualification (advantageous)
• DEAT / NDT Registered Guide
• Valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate
• Valid Driver's Licence with PrDP
• Rifle proficiency and valid firearm competency (where applicable)

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' experience as a Field Guide.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a supervisory or Head Ranger role.
• Experience working in a luxury safari lodge environment.
• Proven experience leading and mentoring guiding teams.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Exceptional guiding and interpretation abilities.
• Strong knowledge of South African wildlife, birdlife, ecology, and conservation.
• Excellent guest relations and communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• High attention to safety and risk management.
• Ability to work under pressure and in remote environments.
• Excellent organisational and planning skills.
• Professional appearance and positive attitude.

Knowledge Requirements

• Wildlife behaviour and ecology.
• Bird identification.
• Bush survival and navigation.
• Conservation principles and reserve management.
• Vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting.Firearm safety and handling.
• Health and safety regulations.
• Hospitality service standards.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to work weekends, public holidays, and flexible hours.
• Physically fit and capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Passion for conservation and eco-tourism.
• Ability to live on-site if required.
• Clear criminal record.
• Valid passport (advantageous for cross-border reserves).

Preferred Attributes

• Calm and confident leadership style.
• Passion for mentoring and developing guides.
• Strong commitment to conservation and environmental sustainability.
• Excellent interpersonal and guest engagement skills.
• Professional, reliable, and self-motivated.
• High ethical standards and integrity.