Senior Field Guide – Conservation Focused

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

Job summary

A wildlife conservation organization is seeking a Senior Field Guide to deliver exceptional wildlife experiences while contributing to conservation efforts. The ideal candidate will have extensive guiding experience and strong ecological knowledge. Responsibilities include leading game drives, mentoring junior guides, and participating in conservation initiatives. Applicants should possess relevant qualifications and demonstrate a commitment to conservation ethics and sustainable tourism.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in a hospitality or lodge environment is required.
• Strong ecological knowledge of African fauna, flora and ecosystems is essential.
• High level of physical fitness and ability to work in remote conditions.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily game drives and bush walks at an advanced guiding level.
• Actively support and participate in conservation projects and ecological research.
• Mentor, train, and support junior field guides and trainees.
• Maintain accurate trip logs and conservation data.

Skills

Advanced bushcraft

Tracking skills

Species identification

Excellent communication

Organizational abilities

Guest engagement

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

• Guiding & Guest Experience
• 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

Required Skills

Diploma or certificate in Hospitality Management (or equivalent experience). Minimum 12 years’ experience in a hospitality or lodge environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities. Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, reservations or PMS systems advantageous). Professional presentable and guest‑centric approach. Willingness to live on‑site and work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

Required Education

• 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