South African National Parks (SANParks) invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Security Guard at Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with security experience who are looking to build a career within one of South Africa’s most important conservation and heritage destinations.

The successful candidate will contribute to the protection of wildlife, visitors, employees, and park assets while supporting daily security operations and law enforcement activities. Applicants who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.

Position Details

Job Title: Security Guard
Location: Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Limpopo
Paterson Grade: B2
Closing Date: 22 June 2026

The successful candidate will report directly to the Ranger Corporal and Section Ranger and will be responsible for assisting with various security functions and operational activities throughout the park.

About Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site is one of South Africa’s most significant cultural and environmental heritage destinations. Located in Limpopo Province near the borders of Zimbabwe and Botswana, the park is known for its rich biodiversity, archaeological significance, and conservation efforts.

Security personnel play a vital role in ensuring the safety of visitors, employees, wildlife, and infrastructure while supporting anti-poaching initiatives and maintaining law and order within the protected area.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates interested in this position must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Grade 12 (Matric) qualification.
• At least two years of experience working as a Security Guard.
• Security Grades E, D, and C.
• Security Grades B and A will serve as an added advantage.
• A Code C1 driver’s licence with a Professional Driving Permit (PDP) will be advantageous.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English.
• Knowledge of Tshivenda, Xitsonga, and Sepedi will be beneficial.
• Good communication skills.
• Strong organisational abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• High levels of physical fitness and mental alertness.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Punctuality, responsibility, and professionalism.

Candidates who possess additional qualifications or experience related to security operations, law enforcement, or conservation security may have an advantage during the selection process.

Key Responsibilities

The Security Guard will perform a variety of duties aimed at protecting the park and ensuring that all security protocols are followed.

Access Control and Monitoring

One of the primary responsibilities will be controlling access to the park. This includes monitoring entry and exit points, verifying permits, recording vehicle movements, and ensuring that only authorised individuals gain access to restricted areas.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Monitor entrances and exits.
• Verify permits and access authorisations.
• Maintain accurate vehicle registers.
• Record movements of visitors, employees, contractors, and service providers.
• Prevent unauthorised access to the park.

Law Enforcement Support

The position includes participation in security operations designed to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and trespassing.

Responsibilities include:

• Participating in routine security patrols.
• Supporting anti-poaching operations.
• Monitoring suspicious activities.
• Reporting security breaches.
• Assisting law enforcement efforts within the park.

The ability to remain alert and respond appropriately to potential threats is essential.

Protection of Assets

Park infrastructure, equipment, and property require ongoing protection. The Security Guard will help safeguard these resources by monitoring movements and ensuring compliance with security procedures.

Duties include:

• Observing departing personnel.
• Preventing theft of park property.
• Ensuring authorised removal of equipment and assets.
• Monitoring vulnerable areas.
• Reporting suspicious behaviour.

Visitor Assistance

Visitors form an important part of the park’s operations, and security staff are often among the first points of contact.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Assist tourists professionally and courteously.
• Provide guidance to community groups.
• Assist students and learners visiting the park.
• Offer information regarding security procedures.
• Ensure visitors understand entry requirements.

Strong customer service skills will therefore be beneficial.

Emergency Response

Security personnel are often required to respond quickly during emergencies.

Responsibilities include:

• Contacting the South African Police Service when necessary.
• Reporting incidents to the Ranger Corporal or Section Ranger.
• Responding to fire-related incidents.
• Monitoring emergency situations.
• Assisting with incident management.

Quick decision-making and effective communication are important aspects of this responsibility.

Security Patrol Operations

The position requires active participation in maintaining security across different areas of the park.

Tasks include:

• Conducting patrols.
• Monitoring high-risk areas.
• Identifying safety hazards.
• Reporting unusual activities.
• Ensuring area integrity at all times.

The successful candidate may be required to work in various locations depending on operational requirements.

Transport and Operational Support

The Security Guard may also assist with transport-related duties.

Responsibilities include:

• Transporting security personnel to workstations.
• Driving security vehicles when required.
• Responding to breakdown incidents involving tourists.
• Supporting operational movements within the park.

Candidates with a valid driver’s licence and PDP may therefore have an advantage.

Additional Duties

The successful applicant may be assigned additional tasks related to security operations and park management as required by supervisors.

Flexibility and willingness to support broader operational objectives will be important.

Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate should possess the following skills and attributes:

• Strong observation skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Integrity and honesty.
• Professional conduct.
• Good communication abilities.
• Teamwork and cooperation.
• Problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Physical stamina.
• Reliability and accountability.

These competencies are essential for maintaining a secure environment within a national park setting.

Salary and Benefits

The remuneration package includes:

• A basic salary aligned with the Paterson B2 job grade.
• Applicable allowances.
• Employee benefits according to SANParks policies.
• Accommodation within the park.

Successful candidates should note that official accommodation will be provided within the park. Due to current housing limitations, room-sharing arrangements may be required.

Employment Equity

SANParks is committed to employment equity and equal opportunity principles.

Preference will generally be given to South African citizens unless otherwise stated. The organisation also reserves the right not to make an appointment should no suitable candidate be identified.

Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete to improve their chances of being considered.

Application Process

Candidates must submit a comprehensive application that includes all required supporting documents.

Applications should contain:

• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copy of South African ID.
• Certified copies of educational qualifications.
• Certified security certificates.
• Certified copy of driver’s licence (if applicable).
• Any other relevant supporting documents.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Where to Submit Applications

Applications should be sent to:

Attention: Me. Morongwa Maepa
Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site
R572 Pontdrift Road
Musina
0900

Alternatively, applications may be emailed to: morongwa.maepa@sanparks.org

Applicants should ensure that all documents are clear, certified, and submitted before the closing date.

Important Information

Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted. If no response is received within 14 days after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.

Early submission is recommended to avoid last-minute challenges and to ensure all required documentation is included.

The closing date for applications is: 22 June 2026

Interested candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and take advantage of this opportunity to work within one of South Africa’s most important conservation and heritage sites while contributing to security and wildlife protection efforts.