Apply for 4 Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor positions at Mapungubwe National Park. SANParks EPWP Programme 2026 paying R311 per day. Closing date 17 June 2026.
Apply for SANParks EPWP Jobs 2026 – Earn R311 Per Day as a Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor
Are you passionate about wildlife conservation, environmental protection, anti-poaching operations, and safeguarding South Africa’s natural heritage? The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced an exciting Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) employment opportunity for 4 Skilled Armed Environmental Monitors at the renowned Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site in Limpopo.
This fixed-term contract position offers successful candidates the opportunity to work in one of South Africa’s most important conservation areas while earning a daily wage of R311 per day until 31 March 2027.
If you have experience in environmental monitoring, anti-poaching operations, law enforcement patrols, wildlife conservation, or game reserve management, this could be the perfect opportunity to advance your career in the conservation sector.
EPWP Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor Vacancy Overview
Employer: South African National Parks (SANParks)
Programme: Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Position: Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor
Number of Positions: 4
Location: Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site, Limpopo
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract
Contract Duration: Until 31 March 2027
Daily Wage: R311 per day
Closing Date: 17 June 2026
About Mapungubwe National Park
Mapungubwe National Park is one of South Africa’s most treasured conservation areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated near Musina in Limpopo Province, the park is internationally recognized for its rich biodiversity, cultural significance, archaeological heritage, and conservation efforts.
The park forms part of a transfrontier conservation area connecting South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, making it a vital region for environmental protection and anti-poaching initiatives.
Working at Mapungubwe offers environmental professionals a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection of endangered wildlife and natural ecosystems.
Why Apply for the SANParks EPWP Programme?
The Expanded Public Works Programme is designed to provide employment opportunities, skills development, and practical work experience to unemployed South Africans.
Benefits of joining the programme include:
- Valuable conservation experience
- Exposure to anti-poaching operations
- Wildlife protection training
- Environmental management skills
- Career development opportunities
- Experience working within SANParks
- Professional networking opportunities
- Enhanced employability in conservation and environmental sectors
For individuals passionate about nature conservation and wildlife protection, this opportunity can serve as a stepping stone into a rewarding long-term conservation career.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Requirements
Candidates must possess:
- Matric / Grade 12 Certificate
- NCV Level 4 qualification
In addition, applicants must have either:
- Basic Field Ranger Armed Training Course, or
- Qualification in Nature Conservation, or
- Qualification in Game Ranch Management
Experience Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A minimum of two years’ experience as an Armed Environmental Monitor
Relevant experience in conservation, anti-poaching operations, environmental protection, law enforcement patrols, or wildlife monitoring will be highly advantageous.
Firearm Competency Requirements
Successful applicants must possess:
Self-Loading Rifle Competency
The following firearm competency standards are mandatory:
- Unit Standard 119650
- Unit Standard 123511
SAPS Firearm Competency
Applicants must provide proof of:
- SAPS firearm competency certification
Firearm Legislation Knowledge
Candidates should have knowledge of:
- Firearm Control Act
- Unit Standard 117705
These competencies are essential because Environmental Monitors are responsible for law enforcement and anti-poaching activities within protected areas.
Additional Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Be willing to work weekends
- Be available for after-hours duties
- Be physically fit
- Be medically fit
- Have excellent communication skills
- Be proficient in English
- Have no criminal record
- Understand Occupational Health and Safety principles
- Be passionate about conservation
Successful candidates will undergo medical fitness assessments before appointment.
Key Responsibilities
The Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor plays a critical role in protecting wildlife, enforcing environmental laws, and supporting park operations.
Anti-Poaching and Law Enforcement
Responsibilities include:
- Conducting anti-poaching patrols
- Monitoring wildlife activities
- Border patrol operations
- Preventing illegal hunting activities
- Responding to conservation threats
- Protecting endangered species
Patrol and Security Operations
Environmental Monitors will:
- Conduct foot patrols
- Conduct vehicle patrols
- Monitor high-risk areas
- Ensure park security
- Assist with problem animal control
Conservation and Environmental Management
Successful candidates will assist with:
- Natural resource management
- Biodiversity conservation
- Environmental protection activities
- Conservation projects
- Research support initiatives
Data Collection and Reporting
Duties include:
- Recording wildlife sightings
- Maintaining incident reports
- Collecting environmental data
- Capturing data on computer systems
- Assisting with research documentation
Infrastructure Maintenance
Participants will help maintain:
- Fencing systems
- Water points
- Access roads
- Park facilities
- Conservation infrastructure
Access Control and Visitor Management
Responsibilities include:
- Managing access points
- Monitoring visitors
- Supporting staff security
- Ensuring compliance with park regulations
Waste Management and Cleanliness
Environmental Monitors will assist with:
- Waste collection
- Waste disposal
- Environmental cleanliness
- Pollution prevention
Alien Plant Control
Candidates will support:
- Identification of invasive species
- Removal of alien plants
- Environmental rehabilitation projects
Salary and Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
Daily Wage
R311 per day
Depending on the number of working days per month, participants could earn approximately:
- R6,842 – R7,153 per month
This income provides valuable financial support while gaining practical experience in conservation and environmental protection.
Employment Equity
SANParks is committed to transformation and employment equity.
Preference may be given to:
- Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI)
- Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA)
This supports SANParks’ commitment to diversity and inclusive employment practices.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Your CV should highlight:
- Conservation experience
- Environmental monitoring experience
- Law enforcement experience
- Firearm competencies
- Patrol experience
Certified Identity Document
Provide a certified copy of your South African ID.
Certified Qualification Certificates
Include copies of:
- Matric Certificate
- Field Ranger Qualification
- Conservation Qualifications
- Other relevant training certificates
Police Clearance Certificate
Applicants must submit:
- Police Clearance Certificate, or
- Proof of application for police clearance
Failure to provide these documents may affect your application.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications together with all supporting documents to:
Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site
Attention: Iris Mathebula
Postal Address:
P.O. Box 383
Musina
0900
Email Applications
Applications may be emailed to:
Hand Delivery
Candidates may also hand-deliver applications at:
Mapungubwe National Park Gate
Enquiries
Telephone:
015 534 7923
Important Application Tips
To increase your chances of being shortlisted:
Highlight Relevant Experience
Use keywords such as:
- Anti-Poaching
- Environmental Monitoring
- Conservation
- Wildlife Protection
- Law Enforcement
- Ranger Patrols
- Firearm Competency
- Natural Resource Management
Ensure Documents Are Complete
Double-check that all supporting documents are attached before submission.
Submit Early
Avoid waiting until the closing date to submit your application.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is:
17 June 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Final Thoughts
The SANParks EPWP Skilled Armed Environmental Monitor Programme offers an incredible opportunity for individuals passionate about conservation, environmental protection, wildlife management, and anti-poaching operations.
With four positions available at the prestigious Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site, successful applicants will gain valuable experience while contributing to the preservation of South Africa’s natural heritage.
If you meet the requirements and have the necessary skills and firearm competencies, submit your application before the closing date and take the next step toward a rewarding conservation career.
For more conservation jobs, EPWP opportunities, SANParks vacancies, internships, learnerships, and government jobs, visit GoIntern.co.za daily.
