Bela-Bela: Wildlife Manager posted by Bright Placements

Job Purpose The Wildlife Manager is responsible for the comprehensive care, management, and conservation of wildlife across the reserve, including the free-roaming reserve, breeding camps, and the predator park. The role ensures the health and welfare of all animals, promotes ecological integrity, and upholds strong conservation ethics. The Wildlife Manager works closely with conservation authorities, veterinarians, internal teams, and guests to maintain exceptional standards of wildlife management while contributing strategically to conservation outcomes, sustainable breeding programs, and responsible wildlife trading practices. Key Responsibilities 1. Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation Conduct routine game counts and ecological impact assessments. Monitor wildlife populations, movements, and overall ecosystem health. Implement conservation strategies aligned with the reserve’s carrying capacity. Manage veld conditions and control invasive plant species. 2. Animal Health & Welfare Coordinate veterinary care and manage wildlife health across all operational areas. Monitor nutritional requirements, behavioural health, and overall animal welfare. Respond swiftly and effectively to wildlife emergencies and mortality incidents. 3. Breeding Camp & Genetic Management Oversee daily operations within breeding camps. Maintain comprehensive records of births, treatments, movements, mortalities, and lineage. Ensure ethical and legal compliance in all breeding practices. Manage animal introductions, relocations, and transactions in cooperation with regulatory authorities. Develop and implement structured breeding programs aimed at genetic improvement and long-term herd sustainability. Lead the strategic acquisition of new breeding bulls and priority genetics to strengthen breeding outcomes. Oversee the sale of surplus or selected animals in alignment with breeding strategy and market demand. 4. Predator Park Management Ensure predator health, safety, and well-being through professional husbandry practices. Maintain predator enclosures in compliance with species-specific and legal standards. Develop enrichment programs and manage feeding and behavioural conditioning. Train staff in predator handling, safety procedures, and emergency response. Support tourism and education through curated predator interactions where appropriate. 5. Habitat & Resource Management Manage infrastructure including fencing, water systems, firebreaks, and reserve roads. Oversee biodiversity initiatives and ecological sustainability programs. Coordinate maintenance and upgrades with operational teams. 6. Team Leadership & Staff Supervision Lead, mentor, and train conservation and animal care staff. Enforce safety protocols, professional conduct, and proper equipment usage. Schedule patrols, duties, and operational activities while fostering environmental stewardship. 7. Stakeholder & Guest Engagement Represent the reserve during game drives, predator tours, and educational programs. Deliver informative guest experiences focused on conservation awareness. Liaise with veterinarians, conservation authorities, auction houses, breeders, and regulatory bodies. 8. Administration & Reporting Maintain accurate wildlife databases including predator and breeding records. Compile and submit detailed weekly management reports. Support compliance audits, permit applications, wildlife documentation, and budget planning. Job Specification Minimum Requirements National Diploma or Degree in Nature Conservation, Wildlife Management, Ecology, or related discipline. Minimum 5 years’ experience in wildlife management, including hands-on predator care and game breeding operations . Demonstrated experience with wildlife auctions, wildlife trading, and genetic acquisition strategies . Proven experience managing species such as Roan, Sable, Buffalo, Zebra, and Impala . Valid SA Driver’s License (Code B or higher). Firearm competency (advantageous). Strong administrative capability with proficiency in MS Office and wildlife data management systems. Key Competencies & Skills Comprehensive knowledge of South African wildlife and ecosystems. Expertise in animal tracking, monitoring, capture operations, and handling techniques. Strong leadership, team development, and operational planning ability. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. High ethical standards with a deep commitment to conservation and animal welfare. Strong commercial awareness related to wildlife assets and breeding investments. Working Conditions Predominantly field-based role with continuous exposure to wildlife. Irregular working hours, including weekends and emergency response requirements. Physically demanding position requiring advanced bush skills and hands-on operational involvement. What We Offer Hands-on leadership role in advanced wildlife management and conservation operations. Career development opportunities in conservation science, reserve management, and leadership. Supportive and collaborative team environment grounded in ethical conservation principles. Competitive salary package, accommodation assistance, and comprehensive work-related benefits.