Environmental Internships at City of Johannesburg

The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) Department of Environment & Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) is offering EPWP Short Term Contract Positions to suitably qualified and unemployed youth. The Programme will run for a period NOT exceeding twelve (12) months and is aimed at youth between 18 – 35 years of age. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience in critical environmental sectors within a major metropolitan municipality.

The EISD is committed to fostering environmental sustainability and providing developmental opportunities for young professionals. This initiative aligns with the City's broader goals of promoting green initiatives, managing resources effectively, and ensuring a healthy environment for all residents. Participants will gain exposure to real-world challenges and contribute to impactful projects.

This programme is designed to equip young individuals with practical skills and knowledge, enhancing their employability within the environmental field. It offers a structured learning environment where interns can apply their academic qualifications to practical scenarios, under the guidance of experienced professionals. The short-term contract nature allows for focused engagement and a deep dive into specific environmental disciplines.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and implementation of waste management policies, strategies, and plans for sustainable waste management services.

• Manage the planning and implementation of sustainable waste projects, including audits and monitoring of service delivery.

• Facilitate and coordinate climate change initiatives, including the development of policies and strategies for climate action.

• Support the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the Climate Action Plan and related projects, including data collection and analysis.

• Support the implementation of the Air Quality Regulation function and manage the Atmospheric Emissions Licensing System.

• Assist with site inspections, emissions monitoring, and compliance assessments of industrial activities.

• Provide support for the implementation of environmental education and awareness strategies, campaigns, and programmes.

• Assist in the planning and implementation of environmental education and awareness programmes targeting schools and communities.

• Facilitate and coordinate initiatives related to open space planning and management within the City.

• Provide support for the development of the City’s policies and tools related to biodiversity and open space management.

• Assist with the implementation and monitoring of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.

• Support workplace inspections, hazard identification, risk assessments, and corrective action monitoring for OHS.

• Provide professional services in the review of development proposals and applications relating to land use to ensure adherence to environmental policies.

• Ensure the protection of unique environmental assets and the promotion of sustainability and environmental quality.

Why Join the Company

The City of Johannesburg offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a leading African city's environmental agenda. Interns will benefit from exposure to diverse environmental challenges and solutions within a large municipal framework. This programme provides a platform for professional growth, skill development, and networking within the public sector. Participants will work alongside dedicated professionals, gaining invaluable insights into municipal environmental management. The CoJ is committed to creating a supportive and dynamic work environment that encourages learning and development, preparing interns for future career opportunities in the environmental sector.

How to Apply

• Waste Management Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Climate Change Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Air Quality Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Environmental Education & Awareness Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Biodiveristy & Open Space Management Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Occupational Health and Safety Compliance Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

• Impact Management and Compliance Youth Graduate: Click here to apply for this role

Reference: STC 011/2026

• Diploma or Degree (NQF 6/7) in Environmental Science / Environmental Management / Environmental Health / Nature Conservation / Occupational Health and Safety / Energy Studies / Town and Regional Planning / Safety Management or any other closely related discipline.

• ICT literacy, including MS Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Good written and verbal communication skills.

• Project Management skills.

• Coordinating skills.

• Report writing skills.

• Good time management skills.

• Knowledge and understanding of environmental issues and relevant legislation (e.g., NEMA, NEMWA, NEMAQA, OHS Act).

• Basic knowledge of climate change science.

• Basic knowledge of land use management.

• Collaborative/Teamwork, Values and Integrity, Attention to detail, and quality-focused.

• Customer and service delivery management (Batho Pele, Ethics, professionalism).