Safari Manager

Bright Placements (PTY) Ltd; Vaalwater; On-site; ZAR 200,880 - 357,120; Full time

Job summary

Bright Placements (PTY) Ltd seeks an experienced Field Guide/Safari Manager to lead a high-end safari operation. The role requires a luxury lodge background, extensive guiding experience, and proven ability to manage a safari vehicle fleet, conduct guided bush walks, and uphold rigorous safety standards.

The ideal candidate holds FGASA Level 2 or higher (with ARH certification), DEAT/NDT registration, and a valid PrDP.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric) is required, with FGASA Level 2 as a baseline qualification.
• FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH) and ARH certification are essential.
• DEAT/NDT Registered Guide status is required.
• Valid First Aid Level 1 certificate (Level 2 advantageous).
• Valid Driver's Licence with PrDP and Firearm Competency Certificate.

Skills

Leadership

Guiding

Tracking

Wildlife interpretation

Bush walks

Rifle safety

Fleet management

Guest relations

Communication

Organisation

Decision-making

Emergency response

Professionalism

Computer literacy

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

FGASA Level 2 (Level 3 or Professional Field Guide preferred)

FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH – Advanced Rifle Handling)

ARH (Advanced Rifle Handling) certification

DEAT/NDT Registered Guide

First Aid Level 1 (Level 2 advantageous)

Driver's Licence with PrDP

Firearm Competency Certificate

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• FGASA Level 2 (Level 3 or Professional Field Guide preferred).
• FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH – Advanced Rifle Handling) qualification.
• ARH (Advanced Rifle Handling) certification is essential.
• DEAT/NDT Registered Guide.
• Valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate (Level 2 advantageous).
• Valid Driver's Licence with PrDP.
• Valid Firearm Competency Certificate.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' experience as a Field Guide in a luxury safari lodge or private game reserve.
• Minimum of 2–3 years' experience in a supervisory or Safari Manager/Head Ranger role.
• Proven experience managing a safari vehicle fleet, including maintenance scheduling and operational readiness.
• Demonstrated experience conducting guided bush walks.
• Knowledge of anti-poaching awareness, reserve security procedures, and conservation operations.
• Experience working within a 5-star luxury lodge environment is highly advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent guiding, tracking, and wildlife interpretation abilities.
• Comprehensive knowledge of bush walking procedures and rifle safety.
• Strong understanding of safari fleet management and preventative maintenance.
• Excellent guest relations and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Sound decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to remain calm and make effective decisions in emergency situations.
• High level of professionalism and attention to detail.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office and safari reporting systems).

Knowledge Requirements

• African wildlife behaviour, ecology, and conservation.
• Bird identification and interpretation.
• Bush walking safety protocols.
• Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) procedures.
• Anti-poaching awareness and reserve security protocols.
• Safari vehicle maintenance and fleet management.
• Health and safety legislation.
• Emergency response and first aid.
• Luxury hospitality standards and guest service excellence.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver's licence with PrDP.
• Valid firearm competency.
• Physically fit and capable of conducting extended bush walks.
• Willingness to work weekends, public holidays, and flexible hours.
• Ability to live on-site if staff accommodation is provided.
• Professional appearance and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Clear criminal record.

Preferred Attributes

• Passion for conservation and sustainable tourism.
• Strong mentoring and coaching abilities.
• Calm, confident, and decisive leadership style.
• Excellent attention to safety and operational detail.
• Ability to build and lead a high-performing safari team.
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting wildlife conservation objectives.