Junior Guide

Bushwise; Paterson; On-site; ZAR 80 000 - 120 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nature guiding organization in South Africa is looking for Junior Nature Guides to assist in delivering exceptional guiding experiences while developing practical field skills. Responsibilities include engaging guests during game drives, adhering to safety protocols, and collaborating with team members. Ideal candidates should possess NQF Level 2 Nature Site Guide qualifications and hold necessary driving and first aid certifications. The role entails outdoor work with potential accommodation and meals provided.

Benefits

Accommodation provided

Meals included

Training and mentorship

Qualifications

• NQF Level 2 Nature Site Guide qualification is essential.
• Must hold a valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
• First Aid Level 1 certification is required.
• Rifle competency required where applicable.

Responsibilities

• Assist with game drives, walks, and interpretive activities.
• Engage guests in a friendly and informative manner.
• Support senior guides during activities and guest experiences.
• Conduct vehicle preparation and equipment checks.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Interpersonal skills

Conservation awareness

Education

NQF Level 2 Nature Site Guide qualification

Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)

Valid First Aid (Level 1)

Rifle competency

Job description

Role Overview

The Junior Nature Guides are responsible for assisting with the delivery of safe, engaging, and professional guiding experiences while continuing to develop their practical field skills. This role is ideal for an enthusiastic guiding pair at an early stage of their careers, looking to grow under the mentorship of senior guiding staff within a structured wilderness environment.

Key Responsibilities

Guiding & Guest Interaction

• Assist with game drives, walks, and interpretive activities appropriate to experience level
• Engage guests in a professional, friendly, and informative manner
• Support senior guides during activities and guest experiences
• Assist with hosting duties and general guest interaction when required

Safety, Compliance & Development

• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, reserve regulations, and standard operating procedures
• Maintain legal guiding compliance at all times, including permits and logbooks
• Operate safari vehicles responsibly under supervision and in line with camp standards
• Actively participate in ongoing training, mentorship, and skills development

Teamwork & Camp Operations

• Work collaboratively with fellow guides, lodge staff, and management
• Assist with daily guiding logistics, vehicle preparation, and equipment checks
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, presentation, and conduct
• Promote conservation awareness and responsible tourism principles

Learning & Professional Growth

• Demonstrate commitment to developing ecological knowledge and practical guiding competence
• Receive and apply feedback constructively from senior guiding staff
• Support student or trainee activities where required

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• NQF Level 2 Nature Site Guide qualification (essential)
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Valid First Aid (minimum Level 1)
• Rifle competency (where applicable to reserve requirements)
• Willingness to work towards higher guiding qualifications and driving competencies

Desirable Attributes

• Exposure to guiding in a wilderness or wildlife environment
• Strong willingness to learn and develop within a structured guiding team
• Positive attitude, good work ethic, and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively as a pair in a remote environment
• Alignment with conservation values and ethical guiding practices

Working Conditions

• Remote bush-based role requiring extended periods in the field
• Shift work including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays
• Accommodation and meals typically provided on-site