Hluhluwe: Assistant Head Ranger posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

The Assistant Head Ranger is responsible for leading a team of field guides, ensuring guest experiences are exceptional, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the bush. The role blends operational oversight with hands-on guiding, requiring strong team-building skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to conservation and community engagement. It’s a position that demands both technical expertise and a passion for creating memorable, safe, and meaningful wildlife experiences.

Core Criteria:

• Minimum of 2 years previous guiding experience.
• Strong attention to detail and a positive outlook.
• Responsible, flexible, accurate, and an excellent team player.
• Creative, committed, hardworking, and eager to learn.
• Completion of the Inkwazi Ranger Course.
• FGASA Level 1 qualification.
• Valid driver’s license with PDP.
• First Aid certification.
• Grade II walking qualification (preferable).
• Grade II assessor qualification (advantageous).

Candidate Responsibilities:

• Host guests and ensure all needs and requests are met and exceeded.
• Lead a team of guides and hosts to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Demonstrate high levels of motivation and team-building skills.
• Show interest in self-development and in developing the ranging team.
• Participate in field projects.
• Maintain all equipment and vehicles used by the guiding team.
• Uphold an excellent work ethic.
• Maintain service standards and product delivery.
• Attend to guest requests or complaints promptly and appropriately.
• Maintain all equipment and vehicles within the department.
• Adhere strictly to regulations in the Comprehensive Field Guides’ Manual.
• Ensure daily weather and game reports are completed and submitted.
• Stay informed on current conservation issues.
• Organize guest walks and special activities.
• Ensure guest safety during game drives.
• Maintain communication and good relations with lodge and camp management, reporting changes in guest activities.
• Report issues or discrepancies to management immediately.
• Attend and participate in meetings.
• Stay current on guiding and conservation issues.
• Work safely at all times, complying with health and safety regulations.
• Identify potential hazards and take action to minimize risks.
• Report hazards and actions taken.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as requested.