Field Assistant (Fixed-Term Contract) – SANParks
Field Team Supervisor (Fixed-Term Contract) – Namaqua National Park
Employer: South African National Parks (SANParks)
Location: Namaqua National Park, Northern Cape
Contract Type: Fixed-term contract until 31 March 2027, with the possibility of renewal by mutual agreement
Grade / Salary: Paterson Grade B4
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Monthly Salary: R12,414.41
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Housing Allowance: R2,559.55 per month
Accommodation: Candidate must arrange their own accommodation outside the park
Closing Date for Applications: 17 September 2025
If you do not receive a response within 14 days of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.
Employment Equity: SANParks is committed to the principles of Employment Equity. Preference may be given to suitable candidates from underrepresented groups.
Position Overview
South African National Parks (SANParks) is seeking a dedicated and experienced individual to serve as a Field Team Supervisor in Namaqua National Park on a fixed-term basis. This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to one of South Africa’s most biodiverse protected areas. The successful candidate will play a key role in rehabilitation efforts, field operations, and team management within the context of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
As a Field Team Supervisor, you will be responsible for coordinating field-based activities, mentoring EPWP contractors, and ensuring that the work is delivered on time, to a high quality, and in compliance with all relevant health and safety standards. Your role will include hands-on supervision of land rehabilitation, erosion control, alien vegetation removal, and environmental monitoring. You will also be responsible for mapping, data collection, and reporting on project progress.
This role demands a high degree of fieldwork capability, people management, and environmental knowledge, particularly in soil conservation and land rehabilitation techniques.
Key Responsibilities
As Field Team Supervisor, you will take a leadership role in ensuring that environmental field projects are planned, executed, and documented in line with SANParks’ conservation objectives and the framework of the EPWP. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
1. Field Operations Planning and Implementation
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Assist with the detailed planning of project activities, ensuring that timelines, resource needs, and outputs are clearly defined.
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Support daily coordination of fieldwork, including scheduling tasks, allocating teams, and managing logistics.
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Ensure tasks are carried out according to technical specifications and environmental best practices, particularly in land rehabilitation, erosion control, and vegetation management.
2. Contractor Supervision and Mentoring
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Provide on-site supervision to teams of EPWP contractors engaged in physical and environmental restoration work.
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Offer technical guidance and practical mentorship to ensure that contractors understand and meet project expectations.
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Conduct regular assessments of work quality, output, and compliance with work standards.
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Promote teamwork and productivity through effective communication, problem-solving, and positive engagement.
3. Health, Safety, and Programme Standards Enforcement
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Enforce strict adherence to Health and Safety regulations in accordance with national legislation and SANParks policies.
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Conduct regular safety briefings, ensure that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used properly, and respond promptly to safety incidents or hazards.
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Monitor contractor attendance, adherence to codes of conduct, and compliance with programme standards and ethical practices.
4. Field Data Management and Reporting
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Accurately map and record field data using basic GPS or mobile-based mapping tools.
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Capture and maintain structured records of work completed, including photo documentation, measurements, and progress logs.
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Compile weekly and monthly progress reports for submission to Project Managers and other stakeholders.
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Assist with the evaluation of outcomes and impact of rehabilitation work against defined performance indicators.
5. Stakeholder Liaison and Communication
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Act as a communication bridge between field teams, project management staff, and external stakeholders where necessary.
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Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and stakeholder engagement events.
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Provide feedback from field operations to inform future planning and continuous improvement.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
Educational Requirements
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Matric Certificate / Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 equivalent.
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Additional training or certification in conservation, environmental management, agriculture, or related disciplines will be advantageous.
Licensing
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A valid Code 08 (B) South African Driver’s Licence is essential.
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Willingness and ability to travel within the park and surrounding areas using SANParks vehicles.
Technical Skills
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Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) for data entry, report writing, and communications.
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Basic understanding of mapping tools, GPS use, and field data collection techniques.
Work Experience
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A minimum of 2 years’ experience supervising or coordinating work teams, especially in a contractor-based or EPWP environment.
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Demonstrated experience in soil and land rehabilitation, erosion control, or related environmental fieldwork.
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Proven track record in health and safety compliance, including conducting toolbox talks and risk assessments.
Competencies and Attributes
Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following skills, attributes, and personal characteristics:
Leadership and People Management
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Ability to supervise and motivate diverse teams, including individuals with limited formal training.
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Skilled in conflict resolution, mentoring, and performance management.
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Committed to empowerment and skills development of team members.
Practical Field Knowledge
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Sound understanding of ecological restoration techniques, including brush packing, gully stabilization, re-seeding, and alien species clearing.
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Comfortable working outdoors for extended periods and in various weather and terrain conditions.
Analytical and Administrative Capability
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Strong attention to detail in recording field data and compiling reports.
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Ability to interpret maps, work plans, and technical guidelines.
Communication
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Able to communicate clearly in English, with proficiency in Afrikaans or local languages being an advantage.
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Good verbal and written communication skills to liaise effectively with teams and project stakeholders.
Personal Attributes
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Physically fit and resilient.
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Dependable, punctual, and committed to delivering quality outcomes.
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Flexible and adaptable to changing work environments and priorities.
Working Conditions and Environment
This role is field-based and will require extensive outdoor work in remote and rural areas of Namaqua National Park. Applicants must be comfortable with:
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Walking long distances, often in rugged terrain.
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Exposure to the elements, including heat, wind, and dust.
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Travel between different project sites within the park area.
The candidate must reside outside the boundaries of the park and will be expected to arrange their own accommodation. A housing allowance is provided as part of the compensation package.
Why Join SANParks?
Working for SANParks means becoming part of a respected conservation organization that manages some of South Africa’s most iconic and ecologically significant protected areas. As Field Team Supervisor in Namaqua National Park, you will have the opportunity to:
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Contribute directly to the rehabilitation and restoration of fragile ecosystems.
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Gain valuable experience in environmental project coordination and public works management.
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Be part of a dynamic team committed to conservation, sustainability, and community development.
How to Apply:
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Interested applicants should submit their applications in line with the instructions provided by SANParks. Ensure your application includes:
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A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
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Certified copies of your ID, driver’s licence, and qualifications.
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A brief motivation letter explaining your suitability for the role.
Please ensure all documents are submitted before the closing date of 17 September 2025.
Additional Notes
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Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend interviews and field practical assessments.
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Only successful candidates will be contacted. If you have not received feedback within 14 days after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
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SANParks reserves the right not to make an appointment.