Overview
The Wildlife Manager is responsible for the comprehensive care, management, and conservation of wildlife across the reserve, including free-roaming areas, breeding camps, and predator enclosures. This role ensures the health and welfare of all animals, promotes ecological integrity, and supports conservation ethics. The Wildlife Manager collaborates with conservation bodies, veterinarians, internal teams, and guests to maintain high standards in wildlife management and eco-tourism.
Key Responsibilities
1. Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation
- Conduct routine game counts and ecological impact assessments.
- Monitor animal populations, movements, and overall ecosystem health.
- Implement conservation strategies aligned with the reserve’s carrying capacity.
- Manage veld conditions and control invasive plant species.
2. Animal Health & Welfare
Coordinate veterinary care and manage wildlife health across all areas.Monitor nutritional needs, behavioral health, and general welfare of animals.Respond promptly to medical emergencies or mortality incidents.3. Breeding Camp Management
Oversee day-to-day operations within breeding camps.Maintain records of births, treatments, movements, and lineage.Ensure ethical and legal compliance in breeding practices.Manage animal introductions, relocations, and transactions in collaboration with authorities.Develop and implement a structured breeding program for genetic improvement and herd sustainability.Manage the strategic acquisition of new animals to enhance genetic diversity.Oversee the sale of surplus or selected animals in line with the breeding program and market demand.4. Predator Park Management
Ensure predator health, safety, and welfare through proper husbandry.Maintain enclosures to meet species-specific and legal standards.Develop enrichment programs and oversee feeding and behavioral management.Train staff in predator handling and emergency response.Support tourism and educational initiatives through curated predator interactions (where appropriate).5. Habitat & Resource Management
Manage infrastructure such as fencing, water systems, and firebreaks.Oversee biodiversity and ecological sustainability initiatives.Coordinate infrastructure maintenance and upgrades with relevant teams.6. Team Leadership & Staff Supervision
Lead and train conservation staff and animal caretakers.Promote professional conduct, safety, and proper equipment use.Schedule patrols and duties while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.7. Stakeholder & Guest Engagement
Represent the reserve during game drives, predator tours, and educational sessions.Engage guests with informative conservation insights and guided experiences.Liaise with external authorities, conservation bodies, and veterinarians.8. Administration & Reporting
Maintain up-to-date wildlife records, including predator and breeding data.Submit detailed weekly reports to management.Assist with compliance audits, permit applications, and budget planning.Minimum Requirements
National Diploma or Degree in Nature Conservation, Wildlife Management, or related discipline.Minimum 5 years’ experience, including hands-on predator and breeding animal care.Valid driver’s license (Code B or higher).Firearm competency (advantageous).Proven experience with species such as Roan, Sable, Buffalo, Zebra, and Impala.Proficient in MS Office and wildlife data management systems.Key Competencies
Comprehensive knowledge of South African wildlife and ecosystems.Skilled in animal tracking, monitoring, and handling.Strong leadership and staff management ability.Effective written and verbal communication skills.High ethical standards and commitment to wildlife welfare.Working Conditions
Primarily outdoor fieldwork with exposure to wildlife.Irregular hours, including weekends and emergencies.Physically demanding; requires excellent bush skills and hands-on involvement.#J-18808-Ljbffr