Internship Opportunities at Department of Correctional Services

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is offering a comprehensive Graduate Internship programme for the 2026/2027 period, designed to provide invaluable work exposure to recent graduates. This 24-month programme aims to equip participants with practical skills and industry knowledge within various sectors of the DCS. Applicants must be unemployed South African citizens who have not previously participated in a Graduate Internship programme. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in public service and contribute to the correctional services mandate of South Africa. The programme spans across multiple regions and departments, offering diverse learning experiences.

The DCS is committed to developing young talent and fostering a new generation of public servants. Interns will be exposed to the operational and administrative functions of the department, working alongside experienced professionals. This programme is a stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in public administration, IT, finance, legal services, social work, and many other fields. Successful candidates will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of working within the correctional services environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the day-to-day operations of assigned departments within the DCS.

• Support senior staff with administrative and operational tasks.

• Participate in training sessions and workshops to enhance skills and knowledge.

• Contribute to project work and research initiatives as required.

• Adhere to departmental policies, procedures, and ethical standards.

• Gain exposure to specific fields such as Built Environment, Legal, Finance, Psychology, Social Work, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Theology, Correctional Service Management, Occupational Health & Safety, Agriculture, Kitchen/Bakery, Artisans, and Clothing and Textile.

• Prepare reports and presentations on assigned tasks and projects.

• Collaborate with team members to achieve departmental objectives.

• Maintain accurate records and documentation.

• Uphold the values and principles of public service.

Why Join the Company

Joining the Department of Correctional Services as an intern offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a vital public service sector. Interns will benefit from a structured learning environment, mentorship from experienced professionals, and exposure to a wide range of government operations. The DCS is dedicated to fostering personal and professional growth, providing a platform for interns to develop their careers and make a meaningful impact. This programme is an investment in future leaders within the public service, offering a chance to learn, grow, and serve the South African community. The department values integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to rehabilitation and social reintegration.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted with a Z83 form (Download pdf / Editable Z83 form) and must be accompanied by recently updated CV. Please indicate the Reference number, Position and Area/Centre on your application form.

Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of an ID documents, qualifications, and recent academic transcripts / records.

Send your complete application to: 

National Head Office:

Department of Correctional Services, Post Advertisement Section, Private Bag X136, Pretoria, 0001

OR Hand deliver at: 124 WF Nkomo Street, Poyntons Building, Cnr WF Nkomo and Sophie De Bruyn Street, Pretoria, 0001 (Previous: Cnr Church and Schubart Street)

OR you can email your application to 📧 HQHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 HQHRD@dcs.gov.za

Gauteng Region:

The Regional Commissioner Gauteng, Recruitment Section, P/Bag X393, Pretoria, 0001

OR Hand deliver at: 1077 Forum East Building, Arcadia Street, Hatfield

OR you can email your application to 📧 GPHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 GPHRD@dcs.gov.za

Eastern Cape Region: The Regional

Commissioner Eastern Cape. Recruitment Section, P/Bag X9013, East London

OR Hand deliver at: Moore Street, Block E Ocean Terrace Quigney, East London, 5211

OR you can email your application to 📧 ECHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 ECHRD@dcs.gov.za

Free State and Northern Cape Region:

The Regional Commissioner Free State and Northern Cape, Recruitment Section, P/Bag X20530, Bloemfontein, 9300

OR Hand deliver at: 103 Zastron Street, Agrimed Building, Bloemfontein, 9300

OR you can email your application to 📧 FSNCHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 FSNCHRD@dcs.gov.za

KwaZulu-Natal Region:

The Regional Commissioner: Kwa-Zulu Natal, Recruitment Section, P/Bag X9126, Pietermaritzburg, 3201

OR Hand deliver at: Correctional Services, Eugene Marais Road, Napierville, Pietermaritzburg, 3201,

OR you can email your application to 📧 KZNHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 KZNHRD@dcs.gov.za

Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West Region:

The Regional Commissioner Limpopo, Mpumalanga & North West, Recruitment Section, P/Bag X142, Pretoria, 0001

OR Hand deliver at: Cnr Johannes Ramokhoase (Proes) & Paul Kruger Street, 196 Masada Building, 09th Floor, Pretoria, 0001

OR you can email your application to 📧 LMNHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 LMNHRD@dcs.gov.za

Western Cape Region:

The Regional Commissioner Western Cape, Recruitment Section, P/Bag X14, Goodwood, 7459

OR Hand deliver at: Peninsula Drive, Monte Vista, 7460

OR you can email your application to 📧 WCHRD@dcs.gov.za" class="text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-300 font-semibold hover:underline inline-flex items-center bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/30 px-1.5 py-0.5 rounded">📧 WCHRD@dcs.gov.za

• National Diploma/Degree in Architectural Technology, Interior Design Landscape, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering.

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB).

• National Diploma/Degree in Financial Accounting/ Financial Management.

• Degree in Psychology.

• Degree in Social Work.

• National Diploma/Degree in Information Technology.

• National Diploma/Degree in Supply Chain Management.

• National Diploma/Degree in Theological Studies.

• National Diploma/Degree in Correctional Services Management/ Correctional Sciences / Penology/ Criminology/ Security Management.

• National Diploma/Degree in Safety Management / Environment.

• National Diploma/Degree in Animal or Plant Production / Horticulture.

• National Diploma/Degree in Food and Consumer Science / Food Technology.

• National Diploma/Degree/ Trade Certificate in Plumbing / Electrical/ Brick Laying/ Welding/ Motor Mechanic/ Upholstery/ Carpentry/ Fitting.

• National Diploma/Degree in Pattern Making/ Clothing design.

• Must be unemployed South African Citizens.

• Must have never participated in the Graduate Internship Programmes previously.