SANParks Kruger National Park Field Guard Jobs (13 Posts) – Apply for EPWP Employment Opportunities @Apply for EPWP Employment Opportunities

SANParks Announces 13 EPWP Field Guard Vacancies at Kruger National Park

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has opened applications for 13 Field Guard positions under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) at Kruger National Park.

Job Title: Field Guard (13 Positions)
Job Location: Kruger National Park, South Africa
Closing Date: 7 August 2026
Contract: Fixed-Term EPWP Contract (Until 31 March 2027)
Salary: R311 per day (Expanded Public Works Programme Rate)

This fixed-term employment opportunity offers successful applicants the chance to contribute to wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and anti-poaching operations while gaining valuable experience in one of Africa’s most renowned national parks.

The positions are available until 31 March 2027, with successful candidates earning R311 per day in accordance with the Expanded Public Works Programme wage rates.

SANParks is committed to the principles of Employment Equity, and preference will be given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA). The organisation also reserves the right not to make an appointment.

About the Position

Field Guards play an important role in protecting conservation teams, contractors, wildlife, and natural resources within Kruger National Park.

The role involves working in challenging environments, including Big Five areas, supporting conservation initiatives, conducting patrols, and assisting with anti-poaching operations.

This opportunity is suitable for individuals who are physically fit, passionate about conservation, and capable of working outdoors under demanding conditions.

Salary and Contract

Successful applicants will receive:

• Daily Wage: R311 per day
• Contract Type: Fixed-Term Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
• Contract Duration: Until 31 March 2027

Key Responsibilities

Successful Field Guards will be responsible for:

Conservation and Field Protection

• Protecting and guarding contractors working within Big Five game areas.
• Assisting with natural resource management activities.
• Supporting invasive plant control programmes.

• Assisting with alien biota management.
• Supporting unnatural soil erosion management initiatives.

Contractor Support and Safety

• Monitoring contractor behaviour at campsites and field locations.
• Ensuring contractors comply with Health and Safety requirements.
• Guarding Working for Water teams consisting of approximately 12 participants.

Patrols and Law Enforcement

• Conducting routine patrols on foot and by vehicle.
• Recording incidents and wildlife sightings accurately.

• Enforcing environmental legislation through the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA).
• Participating in anti-poaching operations.
• Assisting with other conservation-related activities as required.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
• At least one year of experience performing Field Ranger or Field Guard duties.
• Successful completion of a Basic Field Ranger Course.

• Firearm competency for a self-loading rifle (Unit Standards 119650 and 123511).
• Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act (Unit Standard 117705).
• Basic Health and Safety Level 1 knowledge.
• Ability to undertake long-distance patrols under difficult environmental conditions.

• Medically and physically fit.
• Passion for conservation and working with people.
• Willingness to undergo a medical fitness assessment.
• Clean criminal record.
• Valid Police Clearance Certificate.

Firearm Documentation Required

Applicants must possess:

• Firearm Competency – Self-loading Rifle
• Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act
• Relevant firearm competency certification

Additional Requirements

Successful applicants must:

• Pass background screening.
• Be willing to work in remote conservation areas.
• Demonstrate good discipline and professionalism.

• Maintain accurate patrol and incident records.
• Be capable of working independently and within a team.

Important Information for Dispossessed Landowner Communities

Applicants from Dispossessed Landowner Communities must clearly indicate:

• Their ODI land claim number, and
• The name of the relevant Dispossessed Landowner Community

This information must appear on both the CV and cover letter.

How to Apply

Applicants who meet the requirements should submit the following documents:

• Application letter quoting Reference Number: EPWP-KNP/13/FG
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of Identity Document (certified within the past six months)
• Certified copy of highest qualification (certified within the past six months)

Applications must be hand delivered to any of the following Kruger National Park gates or BSP offices:

• Pafuri Gate
• Punda Gate
• Phalaborwa Gate
• Orpen Gate
• Paul Kruger Gate
• Numbi Gate
• Phabeni Gate
• Malelane Gate
• Crocodile Bridge Gate
• Biodiversity and Social Projects (BSP) Offices

Attention: Siphiwe Mashaba

Telephone: 013 735 0154

Closing Date

Applications must be submitted no later than: 7 August 2026

Late applications may not be considered.

Employment Equity

SANParks supports Employment Equity principles and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates.

Preference will be given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) where appropriate.

Important Notice

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful. SANParks reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.