SANParks General Worker Vacancies

South African National Parks (SANParks) invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their General Worker Vacancies at Golden Gate Highlands National Park – Gladstone Section. The closing date for applications is 01 February 2026.
These positions are based at the Stables within the Conservation Department, and successful candidates will report directly to the Field Ranger Corporal. If you enjoy outdoor work, care about conservation, and are comfortable working with horses and natural environments, this could be a life-changing opportunity.

SANParks is looking for hardworking and committed individuals who are ready to support conservation efforts while working in one of South Africa’s most beautiful national parks.

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Where This Job Is Based

These General Worker positions are located at Golden Gate Highlands National Park, specifically in the Gladstone Section. The work is based at the Stables, which play an important role in conservation patrols, visitor activities, and land management.

Official accommodation will be provided inside the park, which makes this opportunity ideal for candidates who are open to living and working in a protected natural area.

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Why This General Worker Role Is Important

Working as a General Worker in a national park is very different from a typical labour job. Your daily tasks directly support conservation, animal care, and visitor safety. This role combines physical work, teamwork, and responsibility for both animals and the environment.

SANParks plays a key role in protecting South Africa’s natural heritage, and General Workers are an important part of that mission. Your work helps keep the park safe, clean, and operational.

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Minimum Requirements You Must Meet

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12 certificate (Std 10) or an equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
• 1 to 2 years’ experience working in a conservation-related environment or experience with horse riding
• Ability to speak, read, and write in English (additional languages will be an advantage)
• Must be physically fit, as a fitness test will be conducted
• Knowledge of using small plant equipment such as chainsaws and brushcutters
• Basic knowledge of firefighting
• Understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act)
• Basic First Aid knowledge will be an advantage
• Willingness to work weekends and public holidays

Meeting these requirements is essential. Applications that do not comply will be regarded as incomplete and will not be considered.

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Key Responsibilities and Daily Duties

Working With Horses and Stable Duties

A large part of this role involves assisting with horse care at the Stables. You will help identify and report any horse-related illnesses or injuries to the Stable Supervisors or Horse Handlers. You may also assist with vaccinations, feeding, grooming, and basic medical care when needed.

You will be responsible for keeping riding equipment such as saddles and bridles clean and in good condition. You may also assist other Stable staff during visitor outrides when required.

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General Maintenance and Upkeep

General Workers are expected to help maintain the Stables, surrounding terrain, gardens, and paddocks. This includes cleaning, cutting grass around the Stables and offices, and ensuring the area remains neat and safe.

You will also assist with erecting and maintaining fences, which is important for both animal control and visitor safety.

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Conservation and Environmental Support

This role plays a direct part in conservation work. You will assist with wildfire suppression, prescribed burns, and preparing fire breaks. You may also help control soil erosion and remove invasive plant species that threaten the natural environment.

Infrastructure maintenance is another key area. This includes helping maintain buildings, hiking trails, and signage throughout the park.

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Health and Safety Responsibilities

A high level of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) practices must be applied at all times. You will be expected to follow safety rules carefully, especially when working with equipment, animals, or during fire-related activities.

Safety is taken very seriously in SANParks, and every team member plays a role in protecting themselves and others.

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Employment Conditions and Equity

SANParks is committed to employment equity and equal opportunity. Appointments will be made in line with the SANParks Employment Equity Policy.

The Paterson Grade for this position is A3, which reflects the level and responsibility of the role.

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How to Apply for the SANParks General Worker Post

Candidates who meet the requirements must submit the following:

• A detailed CV with a cover letter
• Certified copies of your ID and all qualifications (not older than 3 months)

Applications must be sent to:

South African National Parks
Attention: Relebohile Mofokeng
Private Bag X3
Clarens, 9707
Email: Relebohile.Mofokeng@sanparks.org

You must also apply using the official application link provided. Applications sent only via email without using the link will not be considered.

Alternatively, CVs can be hand delivered to the HR Offices at Golden Gate Highlands National Park between 08h00 and 15h30.

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Important Application Rules

• Only quote “General Worker – Gladstone Stables” in the subject line of your application
• Incomplete applications will not be considered
• If you do not receive a response within 21 days after the closing date, please accept that your application was unsuccessful

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Closing Date You Should Not Miss

The closing date for applications is 01 February 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

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Is This the Right Opportunity for You?

If you enjoy physical work, care about animals, and want to be part of protecting South Africa’s natural heritage, this SANParks General Worker position could be a great fit. It offers real hands-on experience in conservation, stable work, and environmental management, all within a national park setting.

For the right candidate, this is more than just a job. It is a chance to work close to nature and contribute to something meaningful every day.