Field Guide

SUMMARY:
Job Description
The Field Guide is fully responsible for conducting guided safari experiences that are unique, personalised, professional and enjoyable. The main purpose of the role is to ensure that an all-encompassing wildlife experience is offered to every guest, with a focus on catering to the specific needs of each individual guest.
The entire experience should be delivered with humility, professionalism and flexibility, with the end result being an educational experience for all guests. The guiding service should be delivered with an uncompromising sensitivity towards the environment.
Field Guides are expected to be involved in an ongoing process of self-improvement and knowledge enhancement. They are responsible for their own continuous education and that of their tracker. Game-drive vehicles and related equipment must be well maintained and cared for at all times in line with the required standards.
The Field Guide must ensure effective communication with lodge management regarding all guest and guiding requirements. The position is accountable to the Head Guide.
Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the highest quality of game experience for guests.
• Host guests in line with the required Standard of Excellence.
• Show exceptional appreciation and sensitivity towards the environment at all times.
• Ensure guest and staff safety is always a priority.
• Communicate with Front of House staff to ensure the best possible experience for guests.
• Maintain and care conscientiously for vehicles and related equipment.
• Carry out administration duties timeously and effectively.
• Undertake continuous education and knowledge development for yourself and other members of staff.
• Achieve service excellence through teamwork.
• Conduct guided safari experiences that are unique, personalised, professional and enjoyable.
• Cater the wildlife experience to the specific needs of individual guests.
• Maintain effective communication with lodge management regarding guest and guiding requirements.

POSITION INFO:
Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 2 years' work experience as a Field Guide in a similar lodge environment.
• Level 2 FGASA qualification or higher, with theory and practical completed.
• Registered with DEAT and THETA in terms of improving qualifications.
• Trails Guide Certificate.
• Valid First Aid Certificate.
• SASSETA Certificates.
• Valid South African Code 8 driver's licence.
• Valid South African Public Driver's Permit (PDP).
• Excellent communication and people-handling skills.
• An inherent passion for observing, sharing and learning about wildlife.
• Ability to work on your own with enthusiasm.
• Flexible and willing to change plans at short notice and innovate in the interests of the guest and the operation.
• Confident but humble.
• Co-operative and keen to work with the rest of the team in the interests of the lodge and guests.
• Organised, with attention to detail and good time-management skills.
• A developmental approach to staff and colleagues.
• Professional and neat personal appearance and image.

Additional Role Expectations

• Maintain an uncompromising sensitivity towards the environment.
• Take responsibility for continuous personal education and knowledge enhancement.
• Support the continuous education and development of the tracker.
• Ensure game-drive vehicles and related equipment are maintained and cared for at all times.
• Deliver a flexible, professional and educational guest experience.