Field Guide

We are seeking a passionate and professional Qualified Field Guide to join a luxury safari lodge/game reserve. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering exceptional and memorable safari experiences while ensuring the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all guests.
The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of wildlife, fauna and flora, excellent communication skills and a genuine passion for conservation and the safari industry.
Job Purpose
To conduct safe, informative and engaging game drives and guided activities while providing exceptional guest service and contributing to the overall lodge experience.
Key Responsibilities

• Conduct daily game drives and guided safari activities.
• Provide guests with informative and engaging interpretations of wildlife, fauna and flora.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of guests throughout all activities.
• Deliver personalised and memorable guest experiences.
• Build positive relationships with guests and respond to their needs and requests.
• Share knowledge about the reserve, wildlife, conservation and the local environment.
• Conduct vehicle and equipment safety checks before and after activities.
• Maintain safari vehicles and guiding equipment to a high standard.
• Complete relevant vehicle, guest and game-drive records.
• Follow all reserve safety, conservation and operational procedures.
• Assist with guest transfers and other guest activities when required.
• Participate in conservation and environmental initiatives.
• Assist other lodge departments when operationally required.
• Handle guest concerns professionally and escalate issues to management where necessary.
• Maintain a professional appearance and high standard of personal presentation.
• Contribute to creating a warm, welcoming and memorable overall guest experience.

Minimum Requirements

• Qualified Field Guide.
• Relevant guiding qualification.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Valid DEAT/EDTEA registration, where applicable.
• PDP advantageous/required depending on lodge requirements.
• First Aid qualification advantageous.
• Previous experience as a Field Guide within a game reserve or safari lodge preferred.
• Strong knowledge of South African wildlife, fauna and flora.
• Excellent verbal communication and storytelling skills.
• Strong guest-relations and customer-service skills.
• Passion for wildlife, conservation and the safari industry.
• Professional and confident personality.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays.
• Comfortable working outdoors and in a remote/bush environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Wildlife and environmental knowledge
• Guest-service orientated
• Good observational skills
• Strong safety awareness
• Professional and presentable
• Reliable and responsible
• Adaptable and flexible
• Team player
• Passionate and enthusiastic
• Able to work independently
• Strong storytelling and presentation abilities

Personal Attributes
The successful candidate should be friendly, enthusiastic, patient, professional and passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences. They should have a genuine love for the African bush and wildlife and be willing to go the extra mile to ensure guests have an unforgettable safari experience.