South African National Parks (SANParks) 6X Field Guards (BSP) EPWP Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

South African National Parks (SANParks) invites applications for six Field Guard positions within its Biodiversity Social Projects (BSP) in Marakele National Park. These employment opportunities are offered on a fixed-term contract basis, extending until 31 March 2027.

This role is integral to conservation efforts and supporting Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) initiatives within the park. Appointed Field Guards will receive a daily wage of R311, in line with EPWP rates.

Minimum Requirements

• Matric/Grade 12/NCV level 4.
• Firearm competency for Self-Loading Rifle (Unit Standards 1196650 and 123511).
• Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act (Unit Standard 117705).
• Valid Regulation 79.
• Completion of a Basic Field Ranger course or equivalent.
• Valid SAPS clearance certificate and a clean criminal record (background screening will be conducted).
• Understanding of the basic principles of Health & Safety (Health & Safety level 1).
• One year’s experience as a Field Guard in a Big 5 Game Reserve.
• Ability to maintain alertness and endurance during prolonged field operations, including weekends and after-hours.
• Medically and physically fit, with a passion for conservation and people.
• Successful candidates must undergo medical fitness assessment through a medical practitioner.

Added Advantage/Desired:

• Advanced Rifle Handling.
• Firearm competency for Manual Loading/Bolt Action (Unit Standards 119651 and 123519).

Key Responsibilities

• Guarding EPWP participants/contractors.
• Conducting law-enforcement activities such as patrols, monitoring, anti-poaching, and problem animal control (by foot or vehicle).
• Enforcing law, order, and discipline through NEMA, including access control (staff and visitor management, safety).
• Assisting with area integrity management.
• Assisting with infrastructure maintenance (fences, water points, roads, etc.).
• Accurate recording of incidents and sightings.
• Assisting with EPWP projects in the park (e.g., Working for Water, Working for Energy, Working for Wetlands).
• Assisting with park management activities as requested by Line Managers.

What the Work Involves

As a Field Guard in Marakele National Park, your daily work will primarily involve field operations, often requiring sustained alertness and endurance. You will conduct patrols, both on foot and by vehicle, to monitor the park, detect and deter poaching activities, and manage problem animals.

A significant part of the role includes enforcing park regulations, managing access control for staff and visitors, and ensuring safety. You will also contribute to maintaining park infrastructure, such as fences and roads, and accurately record any incidents or wildlife sightings. This position requires working closely with EPWP participants and reporting to Line Managers, sometimes including weekends and after-hours work.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the requirements should submit their application accompanied by the following required documentation:

• A comprehensive CV.
• Certified copies of qualifications, including firearm certificates and a SAPS clearance certificate.

Applications can be sent via email or hand-delivered:

Email Applications: Send to tshegofatso.moremedi@sanparks.org

Hand-delivered Applications: Attention: Tshegofatso Moremedi Marakele National Park Alma Road P O Box 800

Please note that preference will be given to applicants from neighbouring communities/municipalities and to PDI/HDSA candidates, as SANParks is committed to employment equity principles. If you have not received a response within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Closing Date: 07 October 2026