South African National Parks (SANParks) is hiring a front office professional for Mountain Zebra National Park in the Eastern Cape. If you have a background in office administration, hospitality, or tourism, and enjoy working in a guest-facing role, this is a rare opportunity to build a career in one of South Africa’s most iconic conservation areas.
Work Where Nature Meets Professionalism – Receptionist Job at Mountain Zebra National Park
When people search for receptionist jobs, they’re usually thinking of city offices, hotel desks, or busy call centers. But what if you could apply your front-office skills in a breathtaking natural setting — where wildlife roams freely and every workday starts with fresh air and scenic beauty?
That’s exactly what the Receptionist position at Mountain Zebra National Park offers. Located in the Eastern Cape and managed by South African National Parks (SANParks), this role combines hospitality, administration, and nature conservation into a truly unique work experience.
If you have a National Diploma in Office Management, Administration, Hospitality, or Tourism, and 2–3 years of front desk or administrative experience, this could be your ideal career move.
Not only does this position allow you to work in one of South Africa’s most ecologically important parks, but it also gives you the chance to contribute to the success of a national heritage site — all while enjoying job stability, a supportive team, and long-term growth prospects in public service or tourism.
Job Overview: What This Receptionist Role Involves
As a Receptionist at Mountain Zebra National Park, you will serve as the first point of contact for guests, visitors, and internal staff. Your role is crucial in maintaining the park’s reputation for professional, friendly service.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Operating the front desk and switchboard, greeting guests, and answering inquiries
- Handling guest check-ins and check-outs, especially those related to bookings through the Roomseeker system
- Managing reservations, cancellations, and payments where applicable
- Coordinating with various departments (maintenance, housekeeping, conservation) to ensure guest satisfaction
- Performing administrative tasks like filing, compiling reports, updating guest logs, and managing booking systems
- Maintaining a high standard of customer service, both in-person and over the phone
- Ensuring clear communication in English and at least two local languages, as this role services a diverse range of visitors
Why This Job Is Worth Applying For
This isn’t your average receptionist position. Working at a national park comes with its own unique rewards:
- Scenic work environment: You’ll work surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Eastern Cape landscape
- National exposure: SANParks is a respected public entity with locations across South Africa. Performing well here opens doors for future roles in other parks or departments
- Job stability: Public sector roles in conservation and tourism offer long-term career prospects
- Daily variety: Every day is different — from interacting with international tourists to assisting with operational coordination inside the park
- Skills development: You’ll gain valuable experience in both hospitality and government administration
If you’re someone who thrives in a structured environment but enjoys the natural world, this role provides a rare opportunity to blend both.
Who Should Apply?
- Friendly and professional in guest interactions
- Calm under pressure and able to multitask
- Experienced in administration, customer service, or hospitality
- Confident in using Microsoft Office tools like Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Comfortable working in a structured environment with strict security protocols
- Passionate about nature, conservation, and tourism
You’ll also need to be fluent in English and at least two other local languages, given the park’s diverse visitor base.
Minimum Job Requirements
Educational Qualifications
A National Diploma (or N Diploma) in one of the following fields is required:
- Office Management and Technology
- Office Administration
- Secretarial Studies
- Tourism
- Hotel Management
- Hospitality
Work Experience
You must have 2–3 years of relevant work experience in roles such as:
- Receptionist or front office agent
- Administrative assistant or office assistant
- Switchboard operator in hospitality or tourism
- General admin within a hotel, lodge, or tourism-related facility
Technical Skills and Requirements
- Computer literacy: Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word are essential
- Experience with Roomseeker (SANParks’ internal booking system) is an added advantage
- A valid driver’s license is beneficial but not mandatory
- You must have no criminal record — background and reference checks will be conducted
Key Personal Skills Needed
Beyond formal qualifications, you’ll need the right personal qualities:
- Strong communication and telephone etiquette
- Excellent numerical and record-keeping skills
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Friendly, service-oriented attitude
- Ability to work independently and in a team
- Strong interpersonal skills for diverse customer interactions
Application Process – How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Access the official SANParks application form via this link:
https://forms.office.com/r/GiG9bkcRnQ
Note: Your application will not be considered complete unless you complete this online form.
Step 2: Email Supporting Documents
After submitting the form, email the following documents to:
mountzebravacancies@sanparks.org
Required documents:
- Detailed and updated CV
- Certified copies of your qualifications
- Copy of your ID
- Copy of your driver’s license (if available)
- Any other supporting documents relevant to the application
Application Deadline
Closing Date: 26 September 2025
Is This Receptionist Job Right for You?
If you’re looking to work in a unique environment where your skills in administration and hospitality can directly support conservation efforts and visitor satisfaction, this position is tailor-made for you.
This is more than just a desk job. It’s a chance to be part of something meaningful — to work in a place where people come to reconnect with nature and where your role helps create lasting memories for every guest.
Whether you’re already working in tourism and want a more fulfilling location, or you’re looking to enter the public sector with a respected employer like SANParks, this opportunity ticks all the right boxes.
