South Africa: Wildlife Manager posted by Chainlink Recruitment

About the Role

The Wildlife Manager is responsible for the comprehensive care, management, and conservation of wildlife across the Game Reserve, which includes the free-roaming reserve, breeding camps, and the predator park. This role ensures the health and welfare of all animals, promotes ecological integrity, and supports conservation ethics.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct routine game counts and ecological impact assessments.
• Monitor animal populations, movements, and general ecosystem health.
• Implement conservation strategies aligned with the reserves carrying capacity.
• Control and manage veld conditions and invasive plant species.
• Coordinate veterinary care and manage wildlife health across all areas.
• Monitor nutritional needs, behavioural health, and overall welfare of animals.
• Respond rapidly to medical emergencies or mortality incidents.
• Oversee day-to-day operations within breeding camps.
• Maintain detailed records of births, treatments, movements, and lineage.
• Ensure ethical and legal compliance in breeding practices.
• Manage animal introductions, relocations, and transactions in collaboration with relevant authorities.
• Develop and implement a structured breeding program aimed at genetic improvement and herd sustainability.
• Manage the strategic purchase of new bulls to enhance genetic diversity and breeding outcomes.
• Oversee the sale of surplus or selected animals in accordance with the breeding program and market demand.
• Ensure predator health, safety, and well-being through proper husbandry.
• Maintain enclosures to meet species-specific and legal standards.
• Develop enrichment programs and oversee feeding and behavioural management.
• Train staff in handling predators and emergency response.
• Support tourism and education through curated predator interactions (when appropriate).
• Manage infrastructure such as fencing, water supply systems, and firebreaks.
• Oversee biodiversity and ecological sustainability efforts.
• Coordinate infrastructure maintenance and upgrades with relevant teams.
• Lead and train conservation staff and animal caretakers.
• Promote professional conduct, safety, and proper equipment usage.
• Schedule patrols and duties while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
• Represent our resort during game drives, predator tours, and educational sessions.
• Engage guests with informative conservation insights and guided experiences.
• Liaise with external bodies including conservation authorities and veterinarians.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Nature Conservation, Wildlife Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience, including hands-on predator and breeding animal care.
• Valid SA Drivers License (Code B or higher).
• Firearm competency (advantageous).
• FGASA level 1.
• Proven experience with species such as Roan, Sable, Buffalo, Zebra, and Impala.

Qualifications

• Completed National Diploma or Degree in Nature Conservation, Wildlife Management, or related discipline.

Salary & Benefits

The salary for this position is R600 000 – R750 000 per annum, depending on experience.