Vaalwater: Senior Field Guide posted by Bushwise

About the Role

Bushwise is seeking a Senior Field Guide to deliver high-quality game drives and bush walks, mentor junior guides, and ensure guests enjoy an engaging and memorable safari experience at our luxury boutique lodge in the Southwest Waterberg region of Limpopo.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular game drives inside Welgevonden Game Reserve, taking advantage of its low vehicle density, excellent sightings, and striking Waterberg landscapes.
• Lead creative experiences such as stargazing, kids tracking sessions, storytelling, and bush talks for guests.
• Accompany guests on off-site activities with packed lunches and drinks.
• Host guests at dinner and upsell additional game drives and activities.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment for guests.

Requirements

• Clear criminal record
• South African citizenship or valid work authorisation
• Strong and reliable employment history (references will be verified)
• Own transport, with a transport plan to present during the interview if not in possession of their own vehicle that can drive a dirt road.
• Fluent in either Afrikaans, Dutch, or Flemish (non-negotiable)
• FGASA Field Guide Qualification (preferably Level 2)
• CATHSSETA certificate
• NDT Registration
• Valid Drivers Licence
• Valid PDP
• Valid First Aid certification
• Minimum 5 years experience guiding in a Big 5 reserve
• Strong knowledge of Waterberg ecology, flora, and fauna (advantageous)

Qualifications

• Formal education/certifications: None mentioned.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: R16,000 (without trails) or R18,000 (with trails and preferably own firearm) per month, DOE.
• Gratuities: Guides are the only staff permitted to receive and keep direct individual tips from guests and as such do not receive from the shared tip pool for all other lodge staff.
• Lunch and dinner provided during rostered on-duty period.
• Accommodation: Private bedroom in senior staff quarters, with own bathroom and kitchenette.
• Utilities: Water and electricity included.
• Uniform: Provided (excluding footwear).
• Laundry: Self-service laundry facilities available.
• 6 days off per calendar month.
• May shift depending on operational needs.
• 15 days of annual leave per annum.