The Field Guide is responsible for conducting safe, informative, and engaging safari activities that deliver exceptional wildlife experiences while upholding conservation principles and lodge service standards. The role ensures guest safety, ethical wildlife interactions, and accurate interpretation of the natural environment in a Big 5 reserve.Guiding & Guest ExperienceConduct professional game drives and safari activities in a Big 5 environment.Ensure guest safety at all times in an unfenced wilderness setting.Provide informative interpretation of wildlife, ecology, tracking, and conservation topics.Adapt guiding style to suit guest interests, expectations, and experience levels.Deliver warm, professional, and memorable guest interactions.Conservation & Ethical GuidingAdhere strictly to reserve rules, wildlife viewing protocols, and conservation guidelines.Promote responsible tourism and environmental awareness.Ensure ethical behaviour around wildlife and habitats at all times.Support conservation initiatives and data collection where required.Safety, Protocols & ComplianceEnsure all safari activities are conducted according to lodge SOPs and reserve regulations.Maintain clear and professional radio communication.Conduct pre-drive vehicle checks and ensure equipment is in safe working order.Respond appropriately to emergencies, incidents, or wildlife-related risks.Operational ResponsibilitiesCare for and maintain guiding vehicles, equipment, radios, and guest amenities.Participate in daily briefings, sightings updates, and debriefings.Assist with special activities such as bush walks, photographic safaris, or night drives (where qualified).Teamwork & Professional ConductWork collaboratively with trackers, fellow guides, and lodge departments.Maintain professional appearance and conduct in line with lodge standards.Act as an ambassador for the lodge’s brand, values, and conservation ethos.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• FGASA Field Guide qualification (minimum Level 1; Level 2 advantageous).
• Valid PDP and driver’s licence.
• First Aid Level 1 (minimum).
• Experience guiding in a Big 5 reserve (preferred).
• Clear criminal record.

Core Competencies
·       Strong wildlife and ecological knowledge
·       Safe driving and off-road guiding skills
·       Excellent communication and storytelling ability
·       High level of guest service awareness
·       Strong conservation and ethical mindset
·       Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
Working Environment
·       Remote Big 5 lodge environment
·       Flexible working hours including early mornings, weekends, and public holidays
·       Outdoor work in varying weather conditions