Senior Field Guide / Couple

A reclaimed private game reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape is seeking a FIELD GUIDE and ASSISTANT LODGE MANAGER couple.

This is an intimate, 12-guest luxury operation, so the role suits either singles in each position, or a couple wishing to split the two positions between them. Applicants should be comfortable working in a remote bush setting and genuinely passionate about wildlife and hospitality.

Core Criteria

Field Guide:

• FGASA qualified and DEAT registered
• Valid PDP (Professional Driving Permit) and First Aid certification
• Previous guiding experience within a private game reserve or safari lodge
• Strong knowledge of wildlife, ecology and conservation principles
• Trails Guide qualification, rifle competency or birding specialisation advantageous

Assistant Lodge Manager:

• Previous experience in lodge operations or hospitality management
• Experience within a safari lodge or luxury hospitality environment preferred
• Computer literacy, including PMS systems (Semper, NightsBridge or Opera advantageous)
• Strong leadership, guest relations and administrative ability

Shared requirements:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Calm, confident and professional under pressure
• Ability to work flexible hours, weekends and public holidays in a remote environment

Core Responsibilities

Guiding:

• Conduct guided game drives and bush activities safely and professionally
• Deliver engaging wildlife interpretation and share ecological knowledge
• Track wildlife, monitor sightings and support conservation initiatives
• Maintain safari vehicles and guiding equipment; ensure radios and safety gear are compliant
• Complete guiding reports, sighting records and vehicle checklists

Lodge Management:

• Oversee day-to-day lodge operations in the absence of the Lodge Manager
• Support guest check-in, hosting and resolution of guest requests
• Coordinate operational logistics across housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance and guiding teams
• Assist with stock control, procurement, cash-ups and operational reporting
• Supervise and support lodge staff, rosters and training

On Offer

• Field Guide salary: R12,000 – R14,000 per month
• Assistant Lodge Manager salary: R20,000 per month
• Live-in position; accommodation and meals on duty included
• Single employees will share a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house with a kitchen, lounge, and dining area.
• Couples will be accommodated in a private flat with a kitchen, lounge, dining area, bedroom, and bathroom.