The South African National Parks (SANParks) is inviting suitable candidates to apply for three Semi Skilled Environmental Monitor positions under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). This opportunity is available at Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site in Limpopo and offers successful applicants the chance to contribute to environmental conservation while gaining valuable practical experience.
The positions are offered on a fixed term contract running until 31 March 2027. Successful candidates will receive a daily wage of R208.00, in accordance with the approved Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) rates.
This opportunity is suitable for individuals who have completed Grade 12, enjoy working outdoors, and have an interest in environmental conservation, wildlife protection, and park management. The programme provides meaningful work experience while supporting the conservation of one of South Africa’s most important national parks.
Position Details
- Programme: Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
- Position: Semi Skilled Environmental Monitor
- Number of Posts: 3
- Location: Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Limpopo
- Contract Duration: Fixed term until 31 March 2027
- Salary: R208 per day
- Closing Date: 13 July 2026
About the EPWP Environmental Monitor Programme
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a government initiative designed to create temporary employment opportunities while providing participants with valuable workplace experience and practical skills. Through this programme, participants contribute to projects that benefit communities, protect natural resources, and improve public infrastructure.
Environmental Monitors play an important role in supporting conservation activities within national parks. Their daily responsibilities help protect wildlife, preserve biodiversity, maintain park infrastructure, and support the overall management of protected areas.
Working at Mapungubwe National Park allows participants to become part of one of South Africa’s most significant conservation areas. The park is internationally recognised for its rich biodiversity, historical importance, and cultural heritage. Environmental Monitors help ensure that this valuable natural environment remains protected for future generations.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements before applying:
- Grade 12 (NQF Level 4).
- Valid Code 08 driver’s licence.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and after hours when required.
- Good written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Ability to communicate in other official South African languages will be an advantage.
- Good physical health and fitness to perform outdoor duties.
- Basic understanding of health and safety principles.
- No criminal record.
- Police Clearance Certificate must be attached to the application, or proof that the certificate has been applied for.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee appointment, as SANParks will consider all eligible applications during the selection process.
Main Responsibilities
Successful applicants will perform a variety of conservation, environmental, and operational duties within the national park.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting with protected area management activities.
- Supporting wildlife protection and maintaining the integrity of conservation areas.
- Monitoring problem animals and reporting incidents.
- Participating in ecological monitoring projects.
- Assisting with habitat restoration programmes.
- Supporting invasive alien plant clearing activities.
- Participating in conservation projects when required.
- Reporting directly to the local Section Ranger.
- Assisting with maintenance of park infrastructure.
- Helping maintain fences, roads, water points, and other facilities.
- Supporting natural resource management programmes.
- Participating in environmental research projects.
- Collecting field data.
- Capturing environmental information on computer systems.
- Completing timesheets and logbooks.
- Preparing reports when required.
- Cleaning and organising storerooms.
- Assisting with stock control.
- Supporting access control activities.
- Assisting with visitor, staff, and security management.
- Participating in waste collection and disposal activities.
- Helping maintain cleanliness throughout the park.
- Assisting with cleaning and maintenance of staff accommodation.
- Performing additional park management duties assigned by supervisors.
The position requires commitment, teamwork, responsibility, and a willingness to work in different weather conditions while carrying out conservation activities.
Skills That Will Be Beneficial
Although only the listed requirements are mandatory, candidates with additional skills may have an advantage during the selection process.
Useful skills include:
- Good communication abilities.
- Teamwork and cooperation.
- Time management.
- Basic computer literacy.
- Problem solving.
- Ability to work independently.
- Observation skills.
- Physical endurance.
- Interest in wildlife conservation.
- Respect for environmental protection.
- Willingness to learn new skills.
- Ability to follow safety procedures.
Working Environment
Environmental Monitors spend most of their working hours outdoors. Duties may involve walking long distances, inspecting infrastructure, monitoring wildlife, clearing invasive vegetation, collecting environmental information, and assisting with conservation projects.
Working conditions may include hot weather, uneven terrain, and physically demanding activities. Applicants should therefore be physically fit and prepared to work in different environmental conditions.
The role also involves working closely with Rangers, Conservation Officers, researchers, and other park staff to support daily park operations.
Why This Opportunity Is Valuable
This EPWP opportunity offers more than temporary employment. Participants gain practical workplace experience in environmental conservation while developing skills that may improve future employment opportunities.
Benefits of participating include:
- Practical conservation experience.
- Exposure to wildlife management.
- Experience working within a national park.
- Opportunity to develop environmental monitoring skills.
- Improved teamwork and communication skills.
- Administrative experience through report writing and record keeping.
- Knowledge of park operations.
- Experience with infrastructure maintenance.
- Exposure to environmental research activities.
- Valuable work experience that strengthens a CV.
Many employers value practical field experience, particularly within recognised conservation organisations such as SANParks.
Employment Equity
SANParks is committed to the principles of Employment Equity.
Preference will be given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) in accordance with SANParks employment policies.
SANParks also reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting an application:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of highest qualification obtained.
- Police Clearance Certificate or proof that the application for the certificate has been submitted.
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the recruitment process.
How to Apply
Candidates who meet the requirements outlined above should submit their applications along with the required supporting documents. A complete application must include a detailed CV, a certified copy of an identity document, and a certified copy of the highest qualification obtained.
Post:
Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site
ATT: Iris Mathebula
P.O. Box 383
Musina
0900
Email: [email protected]
Enquiries: 015 534 7923
Hand Deliver: Applications with all required documents can also be hand delivered to the Mapungubwe National Park gate.
Subject Line: MAPUNGUBWE NATIONAL PARK SEMI-SKILLED ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORS
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all documents are complete before submission to avoid delays during the recruitment process.
Important Information
Only applicants who meet the minimum requirements should apply.
Applications received after the closing date may not be considered.
Candidates who do not receive any communication within 14 days after the closing date should regard their applications as unsuccessful.
Submitting accurate information and all required documents is important, as incomplete applications may not proceed through the selection process.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 13 July 2026.
Interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable conservation experience, contribute to environmental protection, and work within one of South Africa’s most important national parks while earning a daily wage of R208 under the Expanded Public Works Programme.
