Head Trainer

Bushwise; Limpopo; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading wildlife training organization in Limpopo is seeking an experienced Head Trainer to lead training and operations at their campus. This role requires extensive experience in field guiding, excellent leadership and communication skills, and a passion for mentoring. The Head Trainer will deliver high-quality training, manage a team, and ensure a supportive learning environment for students. This position offers competitive salary, accommodation, and meals on-site.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Accommodation and meals on site

Opportunity to shape the next generation of guides

Qualifications

• 5+ years as a professional field guide in a 5-star lodge.
• 2+ years as Head Guide or Assistant Head Guide.
• Excellent computer literacy & admin skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality theoretical and practical training.
• Oversee assessment preparation and student progress tracking.
• Manage campus facilities, vehicles, and safety protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Conflict Resolution

Mentoring

Education

Nature Site Guide NQF4

Dangerous Game Site Guide L2/L4

SASSETA Rifle Proficiency

Valid PrDP

First Aid Certificate

Tools

Computer Literacy

Job description

Bushwise | Full time

Head Trainer
Hoedspruit, South Africa | Posted on 07/31/2025

Job Description
Bushwise is seeking a passionate, experienced, and highly organised Head Trainer to lead operations and training at our renowned field guide training campus. This is a leadership role combining hands-on training, staff management, and day-to-day operational oversight – ideal for a seasoned field guide professional with a love for teaching, mentoring, and conservation.

The Head Trainer is responsible for all aspects of campus operations, training delivery, and quality assurance. You’ll manage a team of trainers and support staff, deliver and oversee both theoretical and practical training, and ensure students receive world-class education in line with CATHSSETA and IFGA standards. You’ll also be a key link between students, trainers, and management, ensuring smooth operations, a high level of professionalism, and a supportive learning environment

Key Responsibilities
Training & Student Development

Deliver high-quality theoretical and practical training, including game drives, guided walks, lectures, and field activities.

Oversee assessment preparation, marking, and student progress tracking.

Provide regular feedback and conduct one-on-one student performance reviews.

Supervise reserve work, camp activities, and ensure health & safety compliance.

Support online training delivery and external training engagements.

Continuously develop and refine training materials to improve student learning.

Staff & Operational Management

Lead and mentor the training team and support staff, fostering a positive, professional culture.

Manage campus facilities, vehicles, equipment, and safety protocols.

Oversee scheduling, operational planning, and campus logistics.

Coordinate with the Camp Coordinator to manage student welfare, health & safety, and community activities.

Ensure compliance with reserve rules, conservation ethics, and operational standards.

Quality Assurance & Communication

Maintain high training quality standards in line with accreditation requirements.

Keep accurate student records, reports, and operational documentation.

Liaise between trainers, management, and industry partners.

Contribute to Bushwise’s marketing efforts through content, blogs, and media submissions.

Requirements
South African resident

Nature Site Guide NQF4 (advantageous)

Dangerous Game Site Guide L2/L4 (VPDA)

SASSETA Rifle Proficiency & SAPS Competency

Range Officer qualification (advantageous)

Valid PrDP & First Aid Certificate

DEAT registration

Excellent computer literacy & admin skills

Extensive 4x4 driving/off-road experience

5+ years as a professional field guide in a 5-star lodge

2+ years as Head Guide or Assistant Head Guide

Proven experience mentoring junior guides or students

Excellent leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills

Passion for teaching, mentoring, and conservation


Benefits
Competitive salary (based on experience and qualifications)

Accommodation and meals on site

Opportunity to shape the next generation of professional field guides

Work in a beautiful, wildlife-rich environment