Vacant Jobs at South African National Parks (SANParks)

JOB PURPOSE

• 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.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Nature Conservation or a related.
• Minimum of 3 years practical Conservation Management experience related to artificial water provision management, fire management, knowledge of invasive species (alien fauna and flora), dealing with dangerous game, problem animal control, veld condition assessments, animal disease monitoring, wildlife capture & handling and firearm handling and management.
• At least 4 years’ Supervisory experience in Conservation Management in a Protected Area. Previous experience as a Field Ranger Sergeant or Corporal will be advantageous.
• Multiple firearm handling qualifications or competencies and experience in all types of firearms.

RECOMMENDED:

• Previous experience in participating, coordinating, conducting and leading anti-poaching operations with special emphasis on Rhino and or Elephant poaching, snaring and poisoning incidents.
• Experience in constituency building related to establishing productive and beneficial relationships with Communities and relevant internal, external and sister departments and entities.
• Experience in dealing with dangerous game (through lethal control with applicable firearms) and implementing problem animal control protocols.
• Experience in active veld fire.
• EMI Grade 2 designation (compulsory) or must qualify in stipulated period.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• A genuine interest in and deep understanding of environmental issues, relevant legislation and best practices within a Protected Area.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Good Leadership and the ability to motivate and lead all Section employees.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Problem solving and conflict resolution experience.
• High levels of discipline, accountability and integrity.
• Spend extended periods of time in the veld and be prepared to deploy and camp when required.

Responsibilities

• Leadership: Promote the highest standards of Environmental Management practices and responsible Tourism. Establish systems and procedures to ensure high standards of ethics and behaviour among Rangers on the Section.
• Section Management: Management and oversight of the Sections infrastructure (Ranger accommodation), roads, firebreaks, fences where applicable (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 KNP policies and plans. This includes, but is not limited to, Problem Animal Control and dealing with Dangerous Game.
• Law Enforcement: Monitoring and enforcement of applicable National Laws and SANParks and KNP policies, regulations and rules. 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/ Real Time/ Mike Reports/ Monthly Reports etc.).
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with all relevant policies and legislation related to Environmental Monitoring and Law Enforcement on the Section.
• People Management: Manage the human capital of the Section through re-training (maintenance of Field Ranger skills), discipline and conflict resolution, mentoring and coaching. Encourage teamwork, collaboration and building a loyal, productive and motivated teams.

Closing Date

• 19 August 2025

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Requirements

• A recognised Degree or B-Tech in any of the Built Environment Disciplines (Construction Management, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Engineering or Project Management). (NQF Level 7 Essential).
• Registration with the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professions as a Professional Construction Project Manager (SACPCMP) or any other relevant professional body.
• Minimum of 6 years inproject and construction management experience.
• 3-5 years Management experience in a similar senior role.
• Knowledge and understanding of the relevant acts, i.e., PFMA, OHS, Construction and Environmental Management Regulations, FIPDM etc.
• Experience in labour intensive construction work will be an advantage.
• A valid Code EB driver’s license and Microsoft Office software competency.

Responsibilities

• Management and implementation of various infrastructure (including Expanded Public Works Programme) projects in national parks in Kruger National Park.
• Contract management of construction projects.
• Development of business plans and project implementation plans as per funding guidelines and conditions.
• Human capital management.
• Administration, data management and reporting projects as per requirements.
• Financial management of project budgets and cash flow.
• Liaise and communicate with relevant stakeholders and role-players.
• Ensure sound internal controls and adherence to policies and procedures.
• Preparation and approval of tender documents for consultants and contractors.

Closing Date

• 20 August 2025

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Requirements

• National Diploma in Office Management/ Administration/ Secretarial.
• 5 years as a Personal Assistant (PA) at management level exposed to generic administrative work.
• 2 years exposure to executive level requirements.
• Have a basic understanding of SANParks and its priorities.
• Computer literate with proficiency in the use of Microsoft and various online platforms.
• Business communication skills.
• Understanding of protocol.
• Understanding of organisational systems and procedures.
• Basic understanding of an organisation’s financial system.
• Customer relations management.
• Understanding of office etiquette.
• Ability to deal with / manage stress.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Conflict management skills.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Administrative and organisational skills.
• Time management skills.
• Project management skills.
• Listening skills.
• Understanding Conservation, Tourism, and Vision 2040 will be an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Effectively manage and coordinate the Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson’s office, diary, and traveling needs.
• Ensure adherence to policy as indicated in policy documents.
• Effectively manage expenditure.
• Design and implement an effective filing and record-keeping system for the Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson.
• Manage the flow of information in the division and the office of the Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson.
• Ensure proper liaison with internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops, and events relating to the Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson.
• Ensure proper management of assets within the division.
• Provide administrative support to projects and the Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson.
• Ensure divisional compliance with the records management system.
• Compile reports, correspondence, business documents, and minutes.
• Attend required meetings of the Head of Communication when so required, and must also keep record of deliberations which, once approved Head: Corporate Communications and Spokesperson, must be shared with parties that were in attendance.

Closing Date

• 20 August 2025

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Requirements

• Be in possession of a Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or related field.
• Should have a minimum of 7 to 10 years of experience in drafting and implementing the internal communication strategies and plans.
• Should also have 5 to 10 years’ experience of working in and/or with the public sector.
• Compliance and Governance.
• Organisational policies and procedures.
• Business Objectives and strategies.
• Deep understanding of the public sector.
• Developing strategy.
• Knowledge of the South African public service regulatory environment and communication protocols.
• Strategic communication and planning.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills.
• Interpersonal and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of public service policies and frameworks.
• Cultural awareness and multilingual communication.
• Project management and implementation.
• Digital communication tools (e.g., SharePoint, intranet platforms).
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Listening skills.
• Interpersonal Skills
• Attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an internal communication strategy and plan that aligns with the company’s overall goals and objectives and fosters improved information dissemination, interactions, and engagements that must be embedded in the workplace culture.
• Partner with leadership to ensure communications support business priorities, change management, and employee engagement efforts.
• Develop a 5-year Internal Communication Strategy and 1-year Action Plan.
• Provide strategic internal communication advice and support.
• Implement the approved strategy and action plan as part of the twelve-month assignment linked to a fit-for-purpose skills transfer model.
• Develop clear and compelling messaging that resonates across all levels of the organisation.
• Tailor messages for diverse employee audiences, ensuring clarity, consistency, and alignment with brand voice.
• Develop plans to effectively communicate with employees during crises or unexpected events.
• Recommend and implement new tools or channels to improve reach and effectiveness.
• Consolidation, Writing, Editing, and Proofreading of the Internal Communication documents.
• Analysis and recommendation of communication platforms (including non-electronic platforms) in a multi-lingual environment.
• Recommend programs to increase employee engagement and foster a positive work environment.
• Track and analyse the effectiveness of internal communication initiatives to identify areas for improvement and ensure alignment with goals and submit weekly and quarterly that detail progress, challenges, and proposed solutions.
• Provide Monthly and Quarterly Performance Report

Closing Date

• 22 August 2025

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Requirements

• NQF level 7 in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Industrial Psychology, or related field.
• 8–10 years’ experience in Human Capital/HR.
• 5 years in a senior/executive support or strategic role.
• Strong understanding of performance management, change management, and governance frameworks.
• Experience in managing large-scale HCM programmes and working with executive leadership.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Knowledge of labour legislation, HCM governance, and compliance standards
• Proficiency in HCM information systems and reporting tools.

Responsibilities

Strategic Support:

• Support the HEAD HCM in the development, refinement, and execution of the HCM strategy.
• Coordinate strategic planning processes and align divisional objectives with organisational goals.
• Monitor and report on progress against strategic KPIs, operational plans, and transformation targets.
• Conduct trend analysis, benchmarking, and research to inform strategic decision making.

Operational Integration and Programme Delivery:

• Drive the implementation of key HCM programmes (e.g., performance management, organisational design, change management).
• Ensure integration and alignment of HCM initiatives across all divisions and Parks.
• Identify and resolve barriers to programme delivery and operational execution.
• Lead special projects and cross-cutting initiatives on behalf of the HEAD HCM.

Governance, Compliance and Risk Management:

• Monitor compliance with HCM policies, regulatory frameworks, and audit requirements.
• Coordinate the development, approval, and review of HCM policies and procedures.
• Ensure timely reporting of HCM risks and mitigation actions to relevant governance structures.
• Liaise with legal, audit, and governance functions to address compliance issues.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication.
• Act as liaison between HCM and internal stakeholders, executive leadership, and external partners.
• Prepare strategic reports, briefing notes, and presentations for the HEAD HCM and executive and governance structures.
• Support effective communication and change management related to HCM initiatives.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Develop and maintain dashboards and reporting tools to track HCM performance metrics.
• Support the performance management cycle within the HCM team.
• Drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement across the function.

Closing Date

• 22 August 2025

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Requirements

• Master’s Degree qualification in business or social science field or similar (PhD will be an advantage).
• At least 15 years of proven experience in the project management of large-scale ecotourism projects, destination marketing and/or management of a public sector institution.
• Knowledge of conservation, tourism, and sustainable development policies
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong stakeholder management and reporting skills.

Responsibilities

• Whilst the focus of the assignment will be on KNP’s Centenary Anniversary, it will be important to use the anniversary to ensure that all of SANParks’s 21 National Parks and 10 Marine Protected Areas (MPA) benefit.

The centenary celebration should:

• Reflect on the origins and formation of the Kruger National Park.
• Celebrate conservation milestones and biodiversity achievements.
• Highlight the introduction and growth of tourism in the park.
• Showcase the transition from fortress conservation to inclusive conservation, emphasising community involvement and co-management.
• Honour the cultural, historical, and ecological significance of the park.
• Promote education, awareness, and public engagement throughout the year.
• The Creation of a coffee table book, a visual journey through the different timelines in the development of the Kruger National Park, will serve as testament to the park’s rich history and its evolution over the past century.

The expert will be responsible for the procurement and management of relevant service providers required to fulfil the following services:

Strategic Planning & Coordination:

• Develop a comprehensive KNP Centenary Action Plan, including objectives, themes, timeline, and milestones.

Branding, Marketing & Communications:

• Review SANParks’s current brand identity aligned to achieving the Vision 2040 objectives.

Product Development & Investment Promotion:

• Review of existing tourism products and infrastructure within KNP aimed at enhancing visitor experiences. The review should inform the investment promotion strategy.
• Resource Mobilisation Internal Coordination and Capacity Building:
• Work closely with SANParks Resource mobilisation team, KNP’s project management team, finance, communications, and conservation departments to ensure alignment and readiness for fundraising activities.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Design and implement a stakeholder engagement plan targeting government, traditional leaders, communities, NGOs, academic institutions, tourism bodies, and the private sector, among others.

Monitoring, Reporting & Legacy Planning:

• Design a monitoring and evaluation framework for centenary activities.

Closing Date

• 23 August 2025

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Requirements

• An MSc qualification in Environmental Management, Development Studies, Biodiversity Conservation, or a related field. (NQF 9 Essential).
• A PhD in a related field (NQF level 10), (an added advantage).
• Professional Registration with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) or EAPASA or SACNASP.
• 5–10 years of experience in areas such as environmental management, land use planning, protected area stewardship, biodiversity economy, socio-economic development, and project management; essential skills include leadership, spatial and GIS planning, database management, stakeholder engagement, conflict resolution, and a strong understanding of SANParks policies, corporate governance, spatial planning instruments, data monitoring systems, and the legislative and policy frameworks governing biodiversity, conservation, and rural development.
• Good working knowledge of MS Office software package and a valid driver’s license.
• Conflict management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Good communication skills- written & verbal, interpersonal, and report writing skills.

Responsibilities

• To provide strategic oversight for the KNP Regional Integration and Great Limpopo Transfrontier conservation Area programmes in the KNP Management Plan.
• Managing teams, fostering collaboration, and providing expert guidance on land-related matters.
• Developing and implementing comprehensive land use plans that promote sustainable, efficient, and equitable development.
• Reviewing and analysing land use plans, ensuring compliance with relevant land use regulations and zoning codes.
• Providing input into spatial planning Frameworks, Policies, and Guidelines.
• Managing the planning and implementation of development projects and programs.
• Ensuring projects align with integrated development plans (IDPs) and strategic plans.
• Managing budgets for land use planning and development activities, including tracking expenditures and ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Overseeing the development of local area concept plans and financing options.
• Coordinating with various stakeholders, including internal/external departments, partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Providing leadership and guidance to land use planning teams.

Closing Date

• 31 August 2025