SUMMARY:
An Internal Vacancy exists for a Contract Manager in the EPS Division based in Mpumalanga, Hectorspruit â¯â¯â¯
The suitable candidate’s main responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
POSITION INFO:
Leadership & Management of Security and APU Teams
- Manage, lead, and coordinate all security personnel and the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU).
- Ensure 24/7 coverage of all designated zones within the reserve, including shift planning, patrol deployment, and emergency standby rotations.
- Train and mentor team members to uphold discipline, operational efficiency, and ethical standards.
- Maintain readiness and morale of all teams in line with conservation and security goals.
Access Control & Gate Operations- Oversee and enforce all access control protocols at reserve gates.
- Ensure accurate logging of vehicle and personnel entry and exit.
- Implement and audit visitor and contractor clearance procedures.
- Prevent unauthorized access and manage high-risk entry scenarios.
Wildlife Protection & Anti-Poaching Operations- Direct and supervise all anti-poaching efforts to safeguard wildlife and prevent illegal activity.
- Conduct risk assessments, deploy patrol strategies, and react to threats in real time.
- Work closely with law enforcement and conservation bodies to share intelligence and support prosecution when needed.
- Maintain daily records and incident reports for wildlife interactions, incursions, or suspicious activities.
Client, Owner, and Guest Relations- Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with the reserve’s primary client, private owners, and visiting guests.
- Ensure guest and owner safety through visible presence, quick response to security queries, and discreet vigilance.
- Provide professional support during incidents or emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to the guest experience.
Property, Equipment, and Asset Protection- Safeguard all buildings, fences, roads, and physical assets of the reserve.
- Monitor and prevent incidents of theft, vandalism, or damage to property.
- Oversee the correct usage, storage, and inventory management of all security and APU equipment, including:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Radios and communication gear
- Surveillance technology
- Patrol vehicles and field gear
Firearms Control- Maintain a strict inventory of all issued firearms and ammunition.
- Ensure compliance with firearm regulations and company SOPs.
- Oversee regular firearm inspections, cleaning, and reporting.
- Lead or facilitate competency training and license renewals as required.
Fire Risk and Safety Policy Management- Implement and enforce the fire prevention policy of the reserve.
- Coordinate firebreak maintenance, early detection systems, and emergency response planning.
- Train staff on fire awareness and response drills.
- Liaise with local fire authorities and neighbouring reserves on joint response protocols.
Compliance, Reporting, and Administration- Ensure compliance with company policies, reserve regulations, and all relevant legislation.
- Submit accurate reports, including:
- Daily activity logs
- Incident and response records
- Equipment and inventory audits
- Monthly performance and risk assessments
Strategic Support & Reserve Development- Contribute to the long-term development of the reserve’s security and conservation strategy.
- Identify areas for improvement and recommend solutions that enhance operational integrity.
- Support other departments with integrated planning and coordination (e.g., maintenance, hospitality, environmental teams).
The suitable candidate shall have the following qualifications/attributes/skills:⯠Experience & Background- Minimum of 5–10 years of security management experience, preferably in a game reserve, conservation, military, or law enforcement environment.
- Proven experience in managing an Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) or conservation protection teams.
- Experience working in remote or rural locations with minimal supervision.
- Strong understanding of wildlife protection, bush tactics, and counter-poaching operations.
Education & Qualifications- Matric / Grade 12 (minimum requirement).
- Relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management, Nature Conservation, Law Enforcement, or similar (advantageous).
- Firearm competency certificate (business use) – must be up to date.
- PSIRA registration – Grade B or higher.
- Valid Driver’s License with off-road experience (Code B or EB); PDP is an advantage.
Skills & Competencies- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Knowledge of South African legislation related to wildlife, firearms, and protected areas.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making ability, especially in crisis situations.
- Competent in writing incident reports, investigations, and operational planning.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written – able to engage with staff, clients, landowners, and authorities professionally.
- Ability to build relationships with law enforcement, conservation authorities, and local communities.
Personal Attributes- High level of integrity, discipline, and accountability.
- Ability to work long hours, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Physically fit and mentally resilient for fieldwork and high-pressure scenarios.
- Committed to wildlife conservation and guest safety.
- Willingness to live on-site at the reserve (accommodation usually provided).
NB! This job is now closed. You can apply for other jobs by uploading your CV.
