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Job Summary
The Assistant Head Guide supports the Head Guide in ensuring exceptional guest safari experiences, high guiding standards, safety and effective management of the guiding team . In a 5-star lodge, the role combines hands-on guiding with leadership, mentoring and operational responsibilities. Key Duties and Responsibilities Guest & Guiding Operations Conduct daily game drives and guided bush experiences to an exceptional 5-star standard. Provide knowledgeable and engaging interpretation of wildlife, fauna, flora, ecology, conservation and local culture. Deliver personalised guest experiences based on individual interests and expectations. Conduct pre-drive and safety briefings and ensure guests understand safari protocols. Monitor guest safety throughout all activities. Assist with special guest activities such as bush breakfasts, sundowners, bush walks and private game drives. Build strong relationships with guests and provide professional, attentive service. Handle guest questions, concerns and special requests professionally. Team Leadership Assist the Head Guide with the day-to-day management of the guiding team. Allocate guides, vehicles and activities according to lodge requirements. Mentor and coach junior guides and assist with their development. Conduct briefings and debriefings with guides before and after activities. Monitor guiding standards, professionalism, appearance and guest interaction. Stand in for the Head Guide when required. Promote teamwork and positive communication between Guides, Lodge Management and other departments. Wildlife & Conservation Maintain an excellent knowledge of the Pongola area's wildlife, ecology and conservation practices. Keep up to date with animal movements, sightings and seasonal changes. Record significant sightings and relevant wildlife information. Support conservation initiatives and responsible tourism practices. Maintain accurate guide and wildlife records where required. Safety & Compliance Ensure all guiding activities comply with lodge, reserve and safety procedures. Conduct regular vehicle and safari equipment checks. Ensure emergency equipment and first-aid kits are properly maintained. Respond appropriately to wildlife and guest emergencies. Maintain current guiding, first-aid and driving documentation. Ensure all guides operate within their legal and professional scope. Qualifications & Experience Essential: FGASA Nature Site Guide NQF2/NQF4 ; preferably NQF4. Valid First Aid Certificate . Valid Professional Driver's Permit (PrDP) if driving guests. Valid South African driver's licence. Registered with the relevant authorities as required for professional guiding. Strong knowledge of South African wildlife, ecology, conservation and bushveld environments. Minimum 3–5 years' experience as a Field Guide ; preferably within a 5-star safari lodge environment. Previous experience in a Senior Guide, Lead Guide or Assistant Head Guide capacity is advantageous. FGASA states that its Field Guide NQF4 pathway requires NQF2 completion and at least 260 days of logged guiding experience . FGASA also specifies a valid First Aid certificate and the appropriate PrDP where the guide drives guests. Highly advantageous: FGASA Professional Field Guide qualification. FGASA Trails Guide qualification, particularly if the lodge conducts walking safaris. Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) and appropriate dangerous-game guiding competency where applicable. Strong tracking and animal identification skills. Tracker qualification. Previous experience mentoring Apprentice or junior guides. For dangerous-game walking, FGASA's Trails Guide pathway includes Nature Site Guide qualification, Advanced Rifle Handling and specific dangerous-game experience and assessment requirements. Skills & Personal Attributes Excellent communication and storytelling skills. Strong leadership and mentoring ability. Passion for wildlife and conservation. Exceptional guest-service orientation. Calm and confident under pressure. Excellent observation and situational-awareness skills. Strong tracking and bush knowledge. Professional appearance and conduct. Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors. Good administration and report-writing skills. Ability to work flexible hours, weekends and public holidays. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a lodge management team.
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