Well established company based in Makhanda are seeking an experienced and qualified applicant to join their dynamic teamKey Responsibilities:Production Management:Plan and oversee the mounting process for all taxidermy projects, including game heads, life-size mounts, birds, fish, and custom pieces.Ensure the workflow is efficient, meeting production timelines and quality expectations.Oversee the preparation, tanning, and mounting processes to ensure each piece is structurally sound and aesthetically accurate.Quality Control:Inspect all completed mounts to ensure they meet the company's high-quality standards and client expectations.Troubleshoot and resolve any issues with mounts, including anatomical inaccuracies or finish imperfections.Ensure all materials and processes adhere to best practices for longevity and durability of mounts.Team Leadership and Training:Supervise and mentor a team of taxidermists, sharing expertise and guiding them in advanced mounting techniques.Provide training to staff to improve their skills in sculpting, skin preparation, painting, and habitat creation.Foster a positive, collaborative, and productive work environment.Customer Interaction:Liaise with clients to understand their requirements and provide expert recommendations on mounting options.Ensure customer satisfaction by delivering mounts that meet or exceed their expectations.Address any concerns or requests from clients in a professional and timely manner.Habitat and Artistic Design:Oversee the creation of realistic and artistic habitats to complement mounts, including foliage, rocks, and water features.Ensure mounts are presented in lifelike poses that reflect natural behavior and anatomy.Material and Equipment Management:Manage inventory of taxidermy supplies, including forms, hides, paints, and tools, ensuring materials are of the highest quality.Ensure all equipment and tools are maintained in good working condition.Source new materials and tools to improve efficiency and quality where necessary.Compliance and Documentation:Ensure all projects comply with local and international wildlife laws and regulations.Maintain accurate records of incoming specimens, permits, and completed projects.Ensure proper labeling and tracking of all specimens in the workshop.Continuous Improvement:Stay updated with new techniques, tools, and trends in taxidermy to maintain the company's competitive edge.Lead initiatives to innovate and enhance the quality and artistic appeal of mounts.Qualifications and Skills:Education:High school diploma or equivalent; formal training in taxidermy is highly desirable.Experience:Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in taxidermy, with expertise in mounting a wide variety of animals, including large game, small mammals, birds, and fish.Proven experience managing or supervising a taxidermy workshop or team.Skills:Mastery of taxidermy techniques, including skinning, tanning, sculpting, and finishing.Strong artistic ability with an eye for detail and realism.Excellent leadership and team management skills.Effective time management and organizational skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously.Knowledge of wildlife anatomy and behavior.Proficient in creating naturalistic and visually appealing habitat displays.Competencies:Attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional quality.Creativity and artistic vision for lifelike mounts.Problem-solving and decision-making skills to address production challenges.Strong communication skills for interacting with clients and team members.Passion for wildlife and conservation.Working Conditions:Primarily workshop-based with exposure to chemicals, tools, and equipment used in taxidermy processes.May require occasional travel to collect specimens or meet clients.Requires physical dexterity, stamina, and the ability to work with heavy materials and equipment.