The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced an exciting employment opportunity for a General Worker position at Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) – Matyholweni Section. This opportunity is suitable for individuals who are passionate about tourism, hospitality, environmental conservation, and maintaining world-class visitor facilities.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Duty Manager and play an important role in ensuring that tourism facilities, accommodation areas, public spaces, and operational environments remain clean, safe, and welcoming for visitors.
Candidates with a Grade 12 qualification, practical work experience, and good communication skills are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
Position Details
Position: General Worker
Location: Addo Elephant National Park – Matyholweni Section, Eastern Cape
Job Grade: Paterson A3
Closing Date: 15 October 2026
About Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is one of South Africa’s most popular national parks and attracts thousands of local and international tourists every year. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, wildlife conservation efforts, and tourism experiences.
General Workers play a critical role in maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and hospitality within the park. The position offers an opportunity to work in a unique environment while contributing to the visitor experience and supporting conservation-related tourism activities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 (Matric), NCV Level 4 certificate, or equivalent qualification.
- 1–2 years of practical work experience in a general worker, tourism, hospitality, or related environment.
- A valid driver’s licence will be advantageous.
- Chainsaw and brush cutter experience will be advantageous.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
- Knowledge of First Aid will be an added advantage.
- Ability to follow workplace instructions, policies, and Occupational Health and Safety procedures.
- Good organisational and time-management skills.
- A short course in landscaping will be advantageous.
- Basic knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety principles.
- Willingness to work weekends, public holidays, and different shifts as required in the hospitality industry.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
The General Worker will perform various duties to support tourism operations and maintain facilities within Addo Elephant National Park.
Cleaning and Hygiene Duties
The successful candidate will:
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in public areas, offices, campsites, accommodation facilities, and ablution blocks.
- Assist in cleaning chalets, huts, kitchens, and guest facilities.
- Ensure waste is collected and disposed of correctly.
- Keep refuse and waste areas clean and organised.
Maintaining clean facilities is essential to providing visitors with a positive experience and supporting SANParks’ reputation for excellence.
Grounds Maintenance
The role includes assisting with:
- Sweeping public spaces and pathways.
- Clearing vegetation.
- Removing litter.
- Maintaining landscaped areas.
- Supporting general outdoor maintenance activities.
Candidates with landscaping, brush cutter, or chainsaw experience may have an advantage during the selection process.
Maintenance Support
General Workers may also be required to:
- Assist with painting.
- Conduct minor repairs.
- Report maintenance issues to supervisors.
- Identify damaged infrastructure and safety hazards.
These duties help ensure that facilities remain safe and functional for visitors and staff.
Operational Support
The successful candidate will assist with:
- Loading and unloading equipment.
- Transporting operational materials and supplies.
- Moving linen and stock.
- Setting up facilities for tourism activities.
- Supporting tourism teams during busy periods.
Additional support may be required before guest arrivals and after departures to ensure facilities are prepared to the expected standards.
Safety and Compliance
Occupational Health and Safety is an important aspect of the position. The General Worker will be expected to:
- Follow all safety procedures.
- Use equipment correctly.
- Maintain clean and safe work areas.
- Report hazards and damaged equipment.
- Assist during emergency situations when necessary.
Compliance with environmental and organisational policies is also essential.
Skills That May Improve Your Application
Although not compulsory, the following skills may strengthen an application:
- Driver’s licence.
- Landscaping experience.
- Chainsaw operation.
- Brush cutter experience.
- First Aid knowledge.
- Hospitality experience.
- Tourism-related experience.
- Basic maintenance skills.
Applicants who demonstrate reliability, a strong work ethic, and excellent customer service abilities may stand a better chance of being shortlisted.
Salary and Benefits
The position falls under the Paterson A3 salary grade, and the remuneration package includes a basic salary aligned with SANParks’ salary structures.
Applicants should note that:
- No official accommodation is available within the park.
- Successful candidates will be responsible for arranging their own accommodation.
Candidates are encouraged to consider accommodation arrangements before accepting employment.
Employment Equity
SANParks has indicated that appointments will be made in accordance with the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan targets.
All applicants are encouraged to apply if they meet the requirements.
Important Application Instructions
Applications will only be considered complete if both application steps are followed.
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Applicants must complete the official online application form using the following link:
Step 2: Email Supporting Documents
Supporting documents must be emailed to:
Email Address: [email protected]
Applications should include:
- Detailed CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of driver’s licence (if applicable)
- Any other relevant supporting documents
Reference Number
Applicants must use the following reference in their application:
Reference: GENERAL WORKER
Attention
Attention: Ms Ilze Jonker
Addo Elephant National Park
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is: 15 October 2026
Applications submitted after the closing date may not be considered.
Applicants who do not receive feedback within 21 days after the closing date should regard their applications as unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
The SANParks General Worker vacancy at Addo Elephant National Park presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking employment in tourism, hospitality, conservation support, and facility maintenance.
This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy working outdoors, maintaining clean and safe environments, and contributing to one of South Africa’s most important conservation and tourism destinations.
Applicants who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before 15 October 2026 and ensure that all required documents and application steps are completed correctly.