SANParks Field Ranger and Room Attendant Vacancies 2026

If you want a stable job surrounded by wild elephants or zebras, SANParks is hiring for 2026. The deadline is next week, so act now.

What the vacancies are

SANParks has two permanent positions in the Eastern Cape:

• Field Ranger – Addo Elephant National Park – salary R153,593.79 – R206,639.15 per year – closing 03 September 2026.
• Room Attendant – Mountain Zebra National Park – salary R127,497.16 – R170,600.60 per year – closing 02 September 2026.

Who can apply – Field Ranger (Addo Elephant National Park)

You need the following qualifications and experience:

• Matric (Grade 12) or NQF Level 4 qualification.
• NQF Level 2 National Certificate in Conservation Guardianship.
• Basic Field Ranger training after you are hired.
• EMI Grade 5 or ability to obtain it in the required time.
• 1–2 years as an Armed Environmental Monitor, Field Guard or similar.
• Good knowledge of conservation law.
• Valid Code 8 driver’s licence.
• Basic computer skills.
• Firearm proficiency for a self‑loading rifle (NQF Level 4 paperwork).
• At least 60 % physical fitness and willingness to pass a fitness test.
• Willingness to undergo a medical exam.
• Attach a SAPS criminal record if you have one; a background check will be done for the selected candidate.

Desirable, but not required:

• National Diploma in Nature Conservation.
• Certificate in Resource Guardianship (NQF Level 5) or equivalent.

What you gain – Field Ranger

• Annual salary between R153 k and R207 k plus allowances and benefits.
• Live inside the park – official accommodation provided.
• Experience in anti‑poaching patrols, wildlife handling and land management.
• Opportunities to develop field‑data collection and reporting skills.
• Career growth within SANParks’ structured grading system.

How to apply – Field Ranger

1. Complete the online form: SANParks Field Ranger application.
2. Email the following documents to addovacancies@sanparks.org using the reference AENP/A028:
   • Cover letter
   • Curriculum Vitae
   • Certified copy of ID
   • Certified copy of driver’s licence
   • Certified copies of all relevant qualifications
3. Make sure you submit everything before 03 September 2026.

Tips for a strong Field Ranger application

• Tailor your cover letter to the duties listed – mention patrols, anti‑poaching, and fitness.
• Highlight any previous work with wildlife, armed monitoring or conservation.
• Include evidence of your firearm licence and driver’s licence.
• Proofread for spelling and grammar – a clear CV shows attention to detail.
• Attach the SAPS criminal record if you have it; it speeds up the background check.

Who can apply – Room Attendant (Mountain Zebra National Park)

Basic requirements:

• Matric (Grade 12) or NCV Level 4.
• 1–2 years cleaning or tourism experience.
• Customer‑service knowledge.
• Familiarity with SANParks Tourism Standard Procedures.
• Health‑and‑safety awareness.

Desired personal skills:

• Good interpersonal communication.
• Effective time‑management.
• Planning and organising ability.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

What you gain – Room Attendant

• Annual salary between R127 k and R171 k plus benefits.
• Work in a scenic park setting with regular guests.
• Develop hospitality and cleaning expertise.
• Potential to move into other SANParks tourism roles.
• Accommodation is not provided – you will live outside the park.

How to apply – Room Attendant

1. Fill out the online form: SANParks Room Attendant application.
2. Email your CV and supporting documents to mountzebravacancies@sanparks.org.
3. Submit before 02 September 2026.

Tips for a strong Room Attendant application

• Show specific examples of cleaning or hospitality work in your CV.
• Mention any training you have received in health‑and‑safety or tourism standards.
• Highlight your ability to work flexible hours and respond quickly to guest needs.
• Proofread all documents and use a professional email address.
• If you do not hear back within 21 days, consider the application unsuccessful.

Employment equity and general notes

SANParks is an equal‑opportunity employer. Appointments follow the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan. South African citizens are given priority unless stated otherwise. SANParks may decide not to fill a post.

Key dates to remember

• Room Attendant – Mountain Zebra National Park: 02 September 2026
• Field Ranger – Addo Elephant National Park: 03 September 2026

Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in South Africa’s national parks.