Senior Field Guide – Conservation Focused

Bushwise; Hoedspruit; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading wildlife conservation organization is looking for a Senior Field Guide in South Africa. This role combines advanced guiding with environmental stewardship, mentorship of junior guides, and participation in ecological management. Ideal candidates will have extensive guiding experience, strong ecological knowledge, and a commitment to conservation ethics. Responsibilities include leading game drives, supporting conservation initiatives, mentoring, and maintaining high professional standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include Nature Site Guide Qualification.
• Must have a valid Professional Driving Permit and First Aid Certificate.
• Requires senior-level guiding experience in wildlife or conservation.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily game drives and interpretive activities.
• Deliver conservation-focused natural history interpretations.
• Support conservation projects and ecological research.

Skills

Advanced bushcraft

Tracking

Species identification

Communication

Presentation skills

Guest engagement

Ecological knowledge

Education

Nature Site Guide Qualification: NQF Level 2 or Level 4

Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)

Valid First Aid Certificate

Job description

Role Overview

The Senior Field Guide plays a key leadership role in delivering exceptional interpretive wildlife experiences while actively contributing to conservation initiatives on the reserve. This position combines advanced guiding, environmental stewardship, mentoring of junior guides, and active participation in ecological management and research support. The role requires a highly experienced guide with strong fieldcraft, ecological knowledge, and a deep commitment to conservation ethics and sustainable tourism.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily game drives, bush walks, and specialist interpretive activities at an advanced guiding level.
• Deliver accurate, engaging, and conservation-focused natural history interpretation.
• Ensure the highest standards of guest safety, professional conduct, and vehicle handling.
• Tailor guiding experiences to suit a variety of guest interests, with a strong emphasis on conservation education.
• Act as an ambassador for the reserve’s conservation philosophy and environmental values.

Conservation & Environmental Management

• Actively support and participate in conservation projects, biodiversity monitoring, and ecological research initiatives.
• Assist with wildlife management activities such as tracking, species identification, data collection, and habitat assessments.
• Promote responsible wildlife viewing practices and ethical guiding standards.
• Contribute to erosion control, invasive species management, and habitat rehabilitation programs where required.
• Support sustainability initiatives including waste management, water conservation, and environmental compliance.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor, train, and support junior field guides and trainees.
• Conduct practical guiding assessments and provide ongoing performance feedback.
• Assist with guide training programs, including conservation education and site-specific ecological knowledge.
• Lead by example in professionalism, safety awareness, and conservation ethics.

Operational & Administrative Duties

• Maintain accurate trip logs, wildlife sightings records, and conservation data.
• Assist with vehicle checks, radio protocols, and guiding equipment management.
• Support reserve management with incident reporting and compliance monitoring.
• Participate in scheduled meetings, briefings, and conservation forums.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

• Nature Site Guide Qualification: NQF Level 2 or Level 4 (Essential)
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Valid First Aid Certificate
• Proven senior-level guiding experience in a wildlife or conservation environment
• Advanced bushcraft, tracking, and species identification skills
• Strong ecological knowledge of African fauna, flora, and ecosystems
• Excellent communication, presentation, and guest engagement skills
• High level of physical fitness and ability to work in remote conditions
• Strong ethical compass with a genuine commitment to conservation