Hurry! SANParks Is Recruiting Skilled Armed Environmental Monitors

SANParks invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor Vacancies (2 Posts) at Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site. The closing date for applications is 01 July 2026.

If you have experience in conservation, anti-poaching operations, and environmental protection, this could be an excellent opportunity to join the South African National Parks (SANParks) team. The successful candidates will work at the beautiful Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site on a fixed-term contract that runs until 31 March 2027.

This opportunity is offered through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and provides a daily wage while giving successful applicants the chance to help protect one of South Africa’s most important conservation areas. If you enjoy working outdoors, protecting wildlife, and contributing to environmental conservation, this position is worth applying for before the deadline.

About SANParks

South African National Parks (SANParks) is responsible for managing many of South Africa’s national parks and protected areas. The organisation works to conserve wildlife, protect natural ecosystems, and promote sustainable tourism across the country.

Working for SANParks gives employees the opportunity to make a real difference by helping preserve South Africa’s natural heritage for future generations. Environmental Monitors play an important role in protecting wildlife, supporting conservation projects, and assisting with law enforcement activities inside the parks.

Job Details

Position: Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor

Number of Posts: 2

Programme: Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)

Location: Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site

Contract Duration: Fixed-term contract until 31 March 2027

Daily Wage: R311.00 per day

What Does a Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor Do?

This position involves protecting wildlife, assisting with anti-poaching operations, maintaining park infrastructure, and helping ensure the safety of visitors, staff, and protected animals.

Environmental Monitors spend much of their time working outdoors and may patrol the park on foot or by vehicle. They also help collect environmental information, support research activities, and assist with various conservation projects.

This role is ideal for people who are physically fit, disciplined, and passionate about protecting South Africa’s natural environment.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Successful applicants will be expected to carry out a variety of important duties, including:

• Conducting law enforcement patrols throughout the park.
• Participating in anti-poaching operations.
• Carrying out border patrol duties.
• Monitoring wildlife and reporting incidents.
• Assisting with problem animal control.
• Supporting Corporals and Sergeants with area management.
• Enforcing environmental laws and park regulations.
• Assisting with access control for staff and visitors.
• Maintaining park safety and security.
• Repairing and maintaining fences, roads, water points, and other infrastructure.
• Recording incidents, wildlife sightings, and patrol information accurately.
• Assisting with natural resource management projects.
• Participating in environmental research activities.
• Collecting field data and capturing information on computers.
• Organising and maintaining storerooms.
• Assisting with waste collection and disposal.
• Helping keep the park clean and environmentally friendly.
• Cleaning and maintaining staff living quarters.
• Assisting with the control of alien invasive plant species.
• Supporting other park management activities when requested.
• Assisting with other EPWP projects as needed.

Minimum Requirements

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

• Grade 12 (Matric) or NCV Level 4.
• Basic Field Ranger Armed Training Course or a qualification in Nature Conservation or Game Ranch Management.
• At least 2 years of experience working as an Armed Environmental Monitor.
• Firearm competency for Self-Loading Rifle (Unit Standards 119650 and 123511).
• Valid SAPS firearm competency certificate.
• Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act (Unit Standard 117705).
• Good written and spoken English.
• Knowledge of another official South African language will be an advantage.
• Must be willing to work weekends, public holidays, and after-hours when required.
• Must be medically fit.
• Must be physically fit for fieldwork.
• Understanding of Health and Safety principles.
• No criminal record.
• Police Clearance Certificate or proof that one has been applied for must be included with the application.
• Successful applicants will be required to undergo a medical fitness examination.

Skills That Will Help You Succeed

The ideal candidate should have:

• Good communication skills.
• Strong observation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good problem-solving ability.
• Physical endurance.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Passion for wildlife conservation.
• Commitment to protecting natural resources.
• Good record-keeping skills.
• Basic computer skills for capturing field data.

Why This Opportunity Is Worth Considering

Working as a Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor offers valuable experience in wildlife conservation while allowing you to contribute directly to protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.

Some benefits of this opportunity include:

• Gain practical conservation experience.
• Work in one of South Africa’s famous national parks.
• Contribute to wildlife protection and anti-poaching efforts.
• Build experience in environmental law enforcement.
• Earn R311 per day through the EPWP programme.
• Develop valuable field and conservation skills.
• Work alongside experienced conservation professionals.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copy of South African ID.
• Certified copy of your highest qualification.
• Police Clearance Certificate or proof that you have applied for one.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

How to Apply

Interested applicants who meet the minimum requirements should send their applications together with all required supporting documents to:

Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site

Attention: Iris Mathebula

Postal Address:

P.O. Box 383

Musina

0900

Email: iris.mathebula@sanparks.org

Contact Number: 015 534 7923

Alternatively, applicants may hand-deliver their CV and supporting documents to the Mapungubwe National Park Gate.

Email Subject Line:

MAPUNGUBWE NATIONAL PARK SKILLED ARMED ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORS

Employment Equity

SANParks is committed to Employment Equity. Preference will be given to suitable candidates from Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA). The organisation also reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is:

01 July 2026

Late applications are unlikely to be considered, so interested candidates should apply as soon as possible.

Take the Next Step Towards a Career in Conservation

Environmental protection is one of the most rewarding career paths for people who enjoy working outdoors and making a positive impact. This SANParks opportunity gives experienced environmental monitors the chance to protect wildlife, fight poaching, support conservation research, and help preserve one of South Africa’s most important national parks.

With only 2 positions available, competition is expected to be strong. If you meet the requirements and have the necessary experience, prepare your documents early and submit your application before 01 July 2026 to avoid missing this opportunity.