Gauteng Department of Environment Internships 2026: A Guide for Graduates

The Gauteng Department of Environment is offering a valuable opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain practical experience through its Internship Programme for 2026-2028. This 24-month program is designed to provide structured workplace exposure across various fields, helping graduates kickstart their careers in public service. If you hold a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree and are looking to gain hands-on experience, this program could be an excellent fit.

Understanding the Internship Programme

The Gauteng Department of Environment’s Internship Programme is a non-renewable, 24-month initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Successful interns will be integrated into departmental projects and activities, working alongside experienced professionals. This hands-on approach ensures that participants receive comprehensive training and develop essential skills relevant to their chosen disciplines. The program seeks to equip graduates with the practical knowledge needed to succeed in the environmental sector and public administration.

Available Internship Opportunities and Requirements

The department has a range of internship positions available, each with specific educational requirements. These roles are located in Johannesburg and Pretoria, offering diverse areas of focus.

Air Quality Internship

This internship focuses on issues related to air quality management.

• Reference Number: AQ2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Earth Science, or Natural Science.

Pollution & Waste Management Internship

This role involves working on projects related to pollution control and waste management strategies.

• Reference Number: PWM2026
• Number of Posts: 2
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Natural Science, or Geography.

Environmental & Impact Management Internship

This position focuses on assessing and managing the environmental impact of various projects.

• Reference Number: EIM2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Environmental Science or Environmental Management.

Environmental Policy, Planning & Coordination Internship

This role supports the development and coordination of environmental policies and plans.

• Reference Number: EPPC2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Pretoria (Council for Scientific & Industrial Research)
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Environmental Science or Environmental Management.

Compliance & Enforcement Internship

This position involves ensuring adherence to environmental regulations and laws.

• Reference Number: CE2026
• Number of Posts: 4
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Natural Science.

Office of the Head of Department Internship

This role provides administrative and operational support within the Head of Department’s office.

• Reference Number: HOD2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Public Management, Public Administration, or Office & Technology Management.

Financial Management Internship

This internship focuses on financial administration and accounting within the department.

• Reference Number: FM2026
• Number of Posts: 2
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: N6, Diploma, or Degree in Financial Management or Accounting Science.

Organisational Development Internship

This role supports initiatives aimed at improving the department’s organizational efficiency and structure.

• Reference Number: OD2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Work-study, Operations Management, Management Services, or Production Management.

ICT Internship

This position involves supporting the Information and Communications Technology needs of the department.

• Reference Number: ICT2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Degree or Diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Business Informatics.

Communications Internship

This role supports the department’s communication strategies and public relations efforts.

• Reference Number: COM2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Media Studies or a related qualification.

Graphic Design Internship

This position focuses on creating visual content for the department’s various communication needs.

• Reference Number: GD2026
• Number of Posts: 1
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Graphic Design or a related qualification.

Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation Internship

This role supports the department’s efforts in planning, tracking progress, and evaluating outcomes.

• Reference Number: ICT2026 (Note: This reference number appears to be a duplicate from the ICT Internship. It’s advisable to double-check the original source for accuracy.)
• Number of Posts: 2
• Location: Head Office, Johannesburg
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
• Required Qualifications: Diploma or Degree in Social Science, Public Management & Governance, or Monitoring & Evaluation.

Key Responsibilities for Interns

Interns participating in this program can expect to engage in a variety of activities designed to foster professional growth. These include receiving structured workplace exposure, actively participating in departmental projects and programs, and attending relevant training and development sessions. The primary goal is to gain practical work experience that directly relates to their academic qualifications, all under the guidance of experienced professionals within the department.

Essential Application Requirements

To be considered for the Gauteng Department of Environment Internship Programme, applicants must meet several key criteria. Firstly, candidates must be unemployed South African graduates. Secondly, they must not have previously participated in a Public Service internship program. All qualifications submitted must be from accredited educational institutions. It is important to note that only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of their documents.

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF document and should include a fully completed new Z83 form and a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV). Applications submitted as JPEGs or pictures will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible graduates should submit their applications via email to [email protected]. When sending your application, ensure that you clearly state the relevant reference number for the internship position you are applying for in the subject line of your email. This will help the department process your application efficiently.

Important Dates and Contact Information

• Application Closing Date: 22 May 2026
• Internship Duration: 24 Months
• Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75

For any inquiries regarding the internship program, you may contact Mr. Livhuwani Mutswana at (011) 240 2590.

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