South Africa: Field Guide (5* Game Lodge) – Welgevonden posted by Phoenix Recruitment

A luxury Game Lodge in the Welgevonden is seeking an experienced Field Guide . You will be responsible for hosting guests on game drives and other activities, interpret the elements of nature and wildlife for guests and be knowledgeable about ecosystems . You will play a pivotal role in the success of a lodge operation and engage extensively with guests. The safari experience is often the primary motivation for guests visiting Africa, consequently 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 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, including animal behaviour, bird species, and plant life. Share information about the environment, ecology, community, and conservation efforts with the guests. Guest Interaction: i nteract with guests in a professional and friendly manner, providing excellent customer service. Answer questions and engage in informative discussions about the wildlife and surrounds. Be sensitive to guest’s preferences, looking for specific species, and try and manage their expectation within the context of what nature delivers. Hosting guests at meals and/or for drinks, as required by the Lodge Manager or your guests. Food & Beverage: service of food and beverages by the guide must be in accordance with hygienic standards which must be adhered to in accordance with the SOP and general good hygienic practices. Must have a full understanding of the meals served in the bush and be aware of dietary requirements. Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: conduct routine daily vehicle checks and equipment in accordance with the SOP and the requirements of the Maintenance Department. Ensure vehicle has all the relevant equipment as required by the SOP checklist and that the equipment is in working order. Environmental Conservation: ensure you are familiar with Welgevonden’s rules and regulations relating to the site / reserve within which you operate. Be sensitive to the environment and avoid off-road driving as far as is possible within the reserve. Comply with the Game Driving Protocol at all times. Emergency Response: be prepared to handle emergency situations and provide first aid, if necessary, in accordance with the company emergency protocols and first aid training protocols. In Lodge Support: take on driver duties to facilitate smooth lodge operations when not guiding by transporting staff between the staff village and main area. Assist with guest luggage. Assist with guest pick-up and drop-off. Assist with staff transfers, as required. Assist with lodge maintenance and the workshop when requested to do so. Requirements Grade 12 FGASA NQF Level 2 At least 2 years’ experience as a Field Guide / Ranger in a Big-5 Game Reserve Valid and current South African drivers licence and valid PrDP 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, being respectful of their culture. Must be familiar with basic vehicle maintenance in order to communicate with the maintenance team to troubleshoot problems. Familiar with how to drive in a variety of on- and off-road conditions. Familiar with radio etiquette and able to ensure that radio conversations are kept short and direct, with no unnecessary chatter. Good initiative to cope with difficult situations in a remote environment. A valid First Aid Training certificate to handle trauma care.