City of Joburg Environmental Internships Offer Youth Development Opportunities

The City of Johannesburg’s Environment & Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) is offering valuable internship opportunities for unemployed South African youth. These positions are part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and aim to provide practical experience in various environmental fields. This program is designed for young individuals looking to build a career in environmental management, conservation, and related sectors.

The internships are available for a period not exceeding 12 months and are open to graduates with qualifications in environmental science, management, health, conservation, safety, planning, and other related disciplines. This initiative provides a stepping stone for young professionals to gain hands-on experience within a municipal setting.

Key Takeaways

• The City of Johannesburg’s Environment & Infrastructure Services Department offers 12-month internships for unemployed South African youth.
• These internships provide practical experience in various environmental fields like waste management, climate change, and air quality.
• Applicants need a Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in relevant environmental or safety disciplines.
• The application deadline for these opportunities is September 10, 2026.

Available Environmental Internship Roles

The City of Johannesburg has opened applications for several Youth Graduate opportunities within the Environment & Infrastructure Services Department. Each role requires specific qualifications and offers unique learning experiences.

Waste Management Youth Graduate

This role supports sustainable waste management initiatives across the city. Responsibilities include auditing Pikitup sites, monitoring service delivery, promoting recycling, and assisting with illegal dumping issues. Applicants need a Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Health, Nature Conservation, or Occupational Health and Safety.

Apply for Waste Management Internship

Climate Change Youth Graduate

This position focuses on supporting the implementation of the Climate Action Plan. Duties involve climate data collection, greenhouse-gas inventories, research, and stakeholder coordination. A Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Energy Studies is required.

Apply for Climate Change Internship

Air Quality Youth Graduate

The successful candidate will assist with atmospheric emission licenses, conduct site inspections, and monitor air quality. This role also involves investigating pollution complaints. Applicants should have a Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Conservation Management.

Apply for Air Quality Internship

Environmental Education & Awareness Youth Graduate

This internship supports environmental education campaigns and community programs. Responsibilities include developing awareness materials and monitoring program outcomes. A Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Management, Environmental Sciences, or Nature Conservation is necessary.

Apply for Environmental Education & Awareness Internship

Biodiversity & Open Space Management Youth Graduate

This role provides administrative support for biodiversity and open space management. Tasks include record keeping, assisting with city policies, and compiling reports. A Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Town and Regional Planning, or Nature Conservation is required.

Apply for Biodiversity & Open Space Management Internship

Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Youth Graduate

This position supports the implementation of occupational health and safety policies. Duties involve workplace inspections, hazard identification, and incident reporting. Applicants need a Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Safety Management or a related field.

Apply for Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Internship

Impact Management and Compliance Youth Graduate

This role involves reviewing development proposals to ensure compliance with environmental policies and legislation. An understanding of environmental laws like NEMA, NEMWA, and NEMAQA is beneficial. A Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Nature Conservation is required.

Apply for Impact Management and Compliance Internship

General Skills and Requirements

All applicants should possess computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with abilities in presentation, project management, coordination, report writing, and time management. Depending on the specific role, knowledge of environmental legislation, climate change, land-use management, or occupational health and safety may be required.

Eligibility Criteria

These internship opportunities are open to unemployed South African youth aged between 18 and 35 years old. Candidates must also meet the specific qualification requirements for the internship they are applying for.

How to Apply

To apply for these environmental internships, candidates must use the direct online application links provided for each specific position. It is important to select the correct internship and submit all required information accurately through the City of Johannesburg’s application form.

Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted by 10 September 2026. It is advisable to apply well before the deadline to ensure all information is correctly submitted.

Conclusion

The City of Joburg Environmental Internships program offers a significant opportunity for young graduates to gain practical experience and develop their careers in critical environmental fields. By applying for these positions, individuals can contribute to the city’s sustainability efforts while advancing their professional development.

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