A Luxury Lodge on the Mluwati Concession situated in the Kruger National Park is seeking an experienced Field Guide. This is open to couples , with the partner employed as a Lodge Administrator or Camp Manager. The guide plays a pivotal role in the success of a lodge operation , the guide’s professionalism and ability to convey knowledge in a safe yet immersive manner significantly shape the overall guest experience. Duties: Conducting Safaris: Lead game drives, bush walks and other activities to provide guests with an immersive and educational wildlife experience. Ensure the safety of guests during all safari activities. Wildlife Knowledge: Possess in-depth knowledge of the local wildlife Share information about the environment, ecology, community and conservation efforts with the guests. Guest Interaction: Interact with guests, providing excellent customer service. Answer questions and engage in informative discussions about the wildlife and surrounds. Sensitive to guest’s preferences and manage their expectation within the context of what nature delivers. Ensure that you can adjust your engagement when you have several different nationalities and generations on your vehicle / walk. Sensitive to guests who want limited interaction with the guide and those who want more engagement and tailor your response accordingly. Hosting guests at meals and/or drinks, as required by the Camp Manager and guests. Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: Conduct routine daily checks of your vehicle and equipment Ensure your vehicle has all the relevant equipment as required by the SOP checklist and that the equipment is in working order. Ensure you have all the right safety protocols in place according to the SOP checklist. Ensure that you always have the prescribed refreshments for cooler boxes and hot boxes and that you are familiar with your guest’s dietary and special requirements. Environmental Conservation: Ensure you are familiar with SANParks rules and regulations Sensitive to the environment and avoid off-road driving as far as is possible Always Comply with the Game Driving Protocol. When conducting walks and drives ensure that guests are educated on the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. Emergency Response: Be prepared to handle emergency situations and provide first aid, in accordance with the company emergency protocols and first aid training protocols. Maintain a calm disposition and act with decision always ensuring you’re and the guests’ safety. In Camp Support: Deal with problem animal control in accordance with the SANParks rules Educate the camp staff on how to behave around dangerous animals. Take on driver duties to facilitate smooth camp operations Assist with guest luggage. Assist with guest pick-up and drop-off to Assist with staff transfers, as required. Assist with game drive linkups for guests Assist with camp maintenance and the workshop when requested to do so. Rifle Handling: Ensure that you have made the request with the Head Guide to draw the rifle and ammunition from the safe in a suitable time before taking your guests out on a walk and ensure it is returned Handle your rifle according to best practice and the SOP Ensure that the rifle is always clean and in perfect working condition. Requirements: Grade 12 FGASA minimum of NQF 4 with Backup Trails. Lead Trails will be a bonus. A valid and current South African guide’s licence and valid PrDP special driver’s licence. DEAT Registration (Mpumalanga). At least 3 years’ experience as a Field Guide / Ranger in a Big Five Game Reserve Self-disciplined, punctual and respectful. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for international guests with diverse cultures. Must have an outgoing hosting personality. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for staff. A basic knowledge of Shangaan or another African language is recommended. Familiar with basic vehicle maintenance Familiar with how to drive in a variety of on- and off-road conditions. Familiar with radio etiquette Good initiative to cope with difficult situations in a remote environment. A valid first aid training certificate to handle trauma care.
