Chief Instrument Maker at South African National Parks (SANParks)

SANParks requires the services of a Gunsmith / Instrument Maker based in the Kruger National Park (KNP) for specialized equipment design, manufacturing and maintenance of specialized equipment The position reports to the Head Ranger: Ranger Services in Kruger National Park. The position is park-based, therefore, the successful candidate will be allocated a house in the Park.

Requirements

• Have at least 4 – 6 years’ work experience in Instrument making/Gunsmithing.
• Knowledge of firearms construction ballistics mechanical technology machine and tool construction practical workshop.
• Engineering Degree in Instrumentation will be an added advantage.
• Knowledge of protective chemical processes.
• Knowledge of Industry and firearms-related legislation, as well as training and assessment procedures.
• Knowledge of firearms maintenance, modification, and repair.
• Developing and loading skills for ammunition (producing specialized ammunition).
• Design and manufacturing skills.
• High level of communication, analytical and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft packages like MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Product assessment and quality control.
• Sound financial and budget management experience.
• Presentation and facilitation skills.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, manufacture and install specialized equipment for Scientific Services, Conservation Management, Ranger Services and Veterinary Wildlife Services.
• Maintain, repair, modify and improve existing scientific, surgical and wildlife equipment for Conservation Management, Ranger Services, Air Services and the Wildlife Processing Facility.
• Use workshop machinery and design their own tools to manufacture required equipment.
• Service, inspect, clean, repair, fabricate parts, assemble, and disassemble firearms.
• Keep records related to the Gunsmith Workshop.
• Support and advise all designated firearms officials and end users.
• Advise on firearm suitability for purpose in conjunction with the Corporate Firearms Manager.
• Comply with relevant industry legislation.
• Manage the Instrument Maker workshop & transfer and develop skills of workshop staff.

Please Note

• The appointment will be made in accordance with SANParks employment equity plan.
• Applicants in possession of foreign qualifications are to submit evaluated results by the South African Qualification Authority.

Closed: 15 March 2024