About South African National Parks (SANParks)

South African National Parks (SANParks) is the organization responsible for managing South Africa’s 19 national parks. Established in 1926, its primary mandate is to oversee the conservation of the country’s biodiversity, landscapes, and heritage. The organization promotes nature-based tourism to both local and international visitors. The income from these commercial operations helps fund conservation efforts.

A vacancy currently exists for a Section Ranger at Karoo National Park to ensure effective Management of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems through implementation of applicable Legislation, Park Management Plans and other planning and assessment tools, aligned with the SANParks Strategy and Annual Performance Plan in support of effective Area Integrity Management in Parks.

This involves the planning and execution of duties as well as collaboration across divisional and corporate functions in SANParks, as well as with external Stakeholders. The successful candidate will have to be a highly motivated individual with the necessary skills and experience and will report to the Conservation Manager.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) / BTech / Advanced Diploma in Conservation Management or Natural Resource Management or equivalent.
• EMI Grade 2 Designation (compulsory) or must qualify in stipulated period.
• Valid Driver’s License (Code A and B and ideally EC).
• Working knowledge of relevant Environmental legislation such as Protected Areas Act, Biodiversity Act, National Veld and Forest Fire Act and National Water Act.
• Multiple firearm handling qualifications or competencies and experience in all types of firearms i.e. handgun, self-loading rifle, manually operated rifle and shotgun.
• 3 – 5 years’ relevant work experience as a Field Ranger or in conservation management in a protected area and 3 years must be in supervision of field ranger teams.
• Must have knowledge of the PFMA act and regulations related to Human Capital.
• Computer literacy -MS Office (Intermediate).

Added advantage:

• Postgraduate Diploma/Honours Degree (NQF 8) advantageous.
• Basic firefighting experience will serve as added advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, as well as conflict resolution, project management and liaison skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and working flexible, long and irregular hours and must be physically fit.

Responsibilities

• Leadership: Promote the highest standards of Environmental Management practices and responsible Tourism. Establish systems and procedures to ensure high standards of ethics and behaviours amongst Rangers in the Section.
• Section Management: Management and oversight of the Sections infrastructure (Ranger accommodation), roads, firebreaks, fences (enclosures and breeding camps), servicing and maintenance of equipment, maintenance and management of artificial water points and equipment to ensure reliable provision of water, control burns and deployment of Rangers to achieve Conservation and Law Enforcement goals.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Implement all Conservation Management actions on the Section in line with SANParks and Karoo National Park policies and plans. This includes, but not limited to, Problem Animal Control and dealing with Dangerous Game.
• Law Enforcement: Monitoring and enforcement of applicable National Laws and SANParks and Karoo NP policies, rules, and regulations. Ensure effective patrolling for maximum area coverage and execute Law Enforcement operations, through deployments, observation posts and camping deployments.
• Administration: Meticulous reporting and administration of all activities for the Section. Ensure Law Enforcement reporting takes place accurately and timeously as is necessary (CMore/ Cyber Tracker/Sitreps/ Earth rangers/ Mike Reports/ Monthly Reports etc.).
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with all relevant policies and legislation related to Environmental Monitoring and Law Enforcement in the Section. People Management: Manage the human capital of the Section through re[1]training (maintenance of Field Ranger skills), discipline and conflict resolution, mentoring and coaching. Encourage teamwork, collaboration and building loyal, productive, and motivated teams.

Please Note

SANParks is an equal opportunity employer. SANParks reserves the right not to make an appointment. South African citizens will receive priority unless otherwise specified.

The remuneration package includes a basic salary, based on the salary scale of a position with a Paterson D1 job grade, and allowances and benefits as specified in the HR Tariff Document and Conditions of Service of SANParks. Accommodation will be provided inside the park.

The appointment will be in accordance with EE plan targets-female candidates are encouraged to apply.

Candidates who have previously applied are encouraged to reapply.

Salary

R 630 000.00 – R 945 000.00 Per Annum