South African National Parks (SANParks) is recruiting four Skilled Environmental Monitors for Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The EPWP contract position offers a daily wage of R311 and provides valuable conservation, anti-poaching, environmental management, and law enforcement experience. Applications close on 15 July 2026.
SANParks Opens Applications for Skilled Environmental Monitor Positions at Golden Gate Highlands National Park
South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced an exciting employment opportunity for individuals passionate about environmental conservation, wildlife protection, and natural resource management. Through its Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), SANParks is recruiting four Skilled Environmental Monitors to join the conservation team at the breathtaking Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State.
The positions offer candidates the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in conservation management while contributing to the protection of one of South Africa’s most iconic natural landscapes. The successful candidates will be employed on a fixed-term contract running until 31 March 2027 and will earn R311 per day in accordance with EPWP wage rates.
Applications close on 15 July 2026.
About Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Located in the scenic foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State Province, Golden Gate Highlands National Park is renowned for its spectacular sandstone cliffs, diverse wildlife, rolling grasslands, and unique biodiversity.
The park plays an important role in conservation efforts, protecting valuable ecosystems while providing opportunities for tourism, environmental education, and sustainable development.
Environmental Monitors serve as a critical part of SANParks’ conservation operations, helping safeguard natural resources and supporting the organization’s broader environmental objectives.
An Opportunity to Make a Difference
The Skilled Environmental Monitor position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and have a strong interest in environmental protection and wildlife conservation.
Participants will contribute directly to efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity, preventing environmental degradation, combating illegal activities such as poaching, and maintaining critical conservation infrastructure.
This role combines fieldwork, law enforcement support, environmental monitoring, and conservation management responsibilities, making it an excellent opportunity for those seeking practical experience in the environmental sector.
Position Details
Job Title
Skilled Environmental Monitor (Conservation)
Number of Positions
4 Positions Available
Employer
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Programme
Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Location
Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State
Contract Duration
Fixed-term contract until 31 March 2027
Daily Wage
R311.00 per day
Minimum Requirements
SANParks is seeking physically fit, committed, and motivated individuals who can operate effectively in challenging environmental conditions.
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Grade 12 certificate (NQF Level 4).
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, overtime, standby duties, and public holidays when required.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and participate in extended patrols under challenging mountainous conditions.
- Successful completion of a medical fitness examination.
- No criminal record.
- Submission of a SAPS Verification Certificate.
- Basic administrative knowledge and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to undergo a fitness assessment as part of the selection process.
The park environment often requires personnel to work in remote areas and difficult terrain, making physical endurance and resilience important qualities for applicants.
Additional Advantages
While not mandatory, certain qualifications and skills will strengthen an applicant’s chances of selection.
These include:
Driver’s Licence
Possession of a valid driver’s licence will be considered advantageous.
Firearm Competency
Certification in the use of:
- Self-loading rifles
- Manual-operated rifles
- 9mm pistols
will be beneficial for candidates involved in law enforcement and anti-poaching operations.
Conservation Experience
Previous experience in conservation, environmental monitoring, wildlife management, or law enforcement may also be advantageous.
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Key Responsibilities
The Skilled Environmental Monitors will perform a variety of conservation and environmental protection duties throughout the park.
Conducting Patrols and Law Enforcement Activities
A major component of the role involves supporting conservation law enforcement initiatives.
Responsibilities include:
- Conducting foot patrols
- Vehicle patrols
- Horseback patrols
- Monitoring protected areas
- Supporting anti-poaching operations
- Assisting with problem animal control activities
These efforts help protect wildlife and maintain ecological balance within the park.
Environmental Monitoring
Environmental Monitors will assist in identifying and reporting environmental issues, illegal activities, and wildlife sightings.
Accurate reporting ensures that park management can make informed conservation decisions.
Infrastructure Maintenance
The role includes assisting with the maintenance of essential conservation infrastructure such as:
- Boundary fences
- Hiking trails
- Roads
- Erosion control systems
- Rehabilitation projects
Maintaining these assets helps preserve both the environment and visitor experiences.
Alien Vegetation Management
Invasive alien species pose a threat to biodiversity across South Africa.
Environmental Monitors will assist in clearing invasive plants and supporting ecosystem restoration efforts.
Fire Management
Fire management remains a critical conservation activity in many protected areas.
Successful candidates may assist with:
- Wildfire suppression
- Firebreak construction
- Prescribed burns
- Fire prevention activities
These interventions help protect ecosystems, wildlife, infrastructure, and surrounding communities.
Vehicle Administration
Environmental Monitors will be responsible for maintaining accurate vehicle logbooks and ensuring proper use of conservation vehicles.
Stable Support Activities
The position also involves supporting horse-riding operations and assisting with stable management where required.
Working Environment
The role is largely field-based and requires individuals to spend significant time outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Environmental Monitors must be prepared to:
- Walk long distances
- Patrol rugged mountainous terrain
- Work in remote locations
- Respond to emergency conservation incidents
- Participate in physically demanding conservation activities
For individuals who enjoy nature, wildlife, and outdoor work, this position offers a unique and rewarding professional experience.
Accommodation Information
Applicants should note that the vacancy advertisement contains an important update regarding accommodation.
While one section indicates that candidates should arrange their own accommodation, SANParks later confirms that accommodation will be provided inside the park for successful candidates.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to seek clarification if needed during the recruitment process.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that includes:
Required Documents
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of all qualifications obtained
All certified documents must be no older than three months.
Applications should clearly indicate:
“Skilled Environmental Monitor – Conservation”
in the subject line.
Submission Methods
Applications may be submitted via email or hand delivered.
Email Applications
Applications should be sent to:
Postal Applications
South African National Parks
Attention: Sammy Lukhele
Private Bag X3
Clarens
9707
Hand Delivery
Applicants may also submit applications directly to the Conservation Office at Golden Gate Highlands National Park between:
08:00 and 15:30
Important Closing Date
Applications must be submitted before:
15 July 2026
Applicants who do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Why This Opportunity Matters
South Africa’s protected areas require dedicated conservation professionals who are committed to safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
The SANParks Skilled Environmental Monitor programme not only creates employment opportunities but also helps build environmental management skills while strengthening conservation efforts across the country.
For individuals interested in environmental protection, wildlife conservation, anti-poaching operations, and outdoor careers, this position offers valuable practical experience within one of South Africa’s most respected conservation organizations.
With a daily wage of R311, hands-on conservation experience, and the opportunity to contribute to the protection of one of South Africa’s most beautiful national parks, this vacancy represents an excellent opportunity for aspiring environmental professionals. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before 15 July 2026.
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