🌿 Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo Youth Graduate Internship 2026 – EPWP Programme
Are you a young South African graduate looking to launch your career while making a meaningful contribution to environmental conservation and urban green spaces? The Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo Youth Graduate Internship Programme 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for unemployed youth to gain practical experience, grow professionally, and make an impact in one of South Africa’s most vibrant cities. Hosted by Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo, in strategic partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), this programme is part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) designed to empower youth with workplace experience in environmental, conservation, and community services.
🌱 Programme Overview
- Positions Available: Approximately 125 internship placements
- Duration: 4 months (fixed‑term, experiential learning)
- Daily Stipend: R247.50 per day
- Closing Date: Expected mid‑year 2026 (similar to 2025 cycle)
- Location: City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Eligibility: Only youth residing in the City of Johannesburg may apply.
This internship programme is designed to provide meaningful work exposure and hands‑on training for graduates who have completed tertiary qualifications but lack formal workplace experience. It offers a structured pathway for you to build skills, enhance your employability, and contribute to environmental stewardship across Johannesburg’s parks, reserves, and zoo operations.
🎓 Who Should Apply – Eligibility & Qualifications
To qualify for the 2026 Youth Graduate Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✔ Minimum Requirements
- Educational Qualification: Matric plus at least three years of tertiary study (Diploma or Degree with 360 credits / NQF Level 6 or higher).
- Age Requirement: Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Residency: Must provide proof of residence in the City of Johannesburg.
- Unemployed Status: Applicants must not be currently employed or enrolled in other internships/learnerships.
- Persons with Disabilities: Encouraged to apply and supported under the programme’s inclusion policy.
- Application Documents:
- Motivational application letter
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, affidavit)
This internship is particularly suited for graduates who want real‑world experience in environmental science, conservation management, park operations, biodiversity, zoology, and related fields.
🧭 Available Fields and Internship Areas
The programme offers internships across multiple departments and specialisations. Each role aligns with specific academic backgrounds and career interests, providing you with relevant work experience that can boost your CV. Below are the key fields and responsibilities:
🐾 1. Johannesburg Zoo – Animal Attendant
- Number of Posts: ~15
- Field of Study: Environmental Management or Conservation Management
- Key Duties:
- Feeding and caring for animals
- Maintaining clean and safe enclosures
- Observing and recording animal behavior
- Supporting environmental education functions at the zoo
- Promoting animal welfare and visitor engagement
📚 2. Environmental Educator – All City Regions
- Number of Posts: ~16
- Field of Study: Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Education
- Key Duties:
- Designing and delivering outreach campaigns
- Educating communities and schools about environmental conservation
- Organising events and public awareness activities
- Leading guided educational tours in parks and green spaces
🌳 3. Nature Conservator / Park Ranger
- Number of Posts: ~65
- Fields of Study: Conservation Management, Environmental Science/Management
- Key Duties:
- Supporting protected area management
- Assisting with ecological maintenance and invasive species control
- Engaging with local communities on conservation issues
- Contributing to safety, compliance monitoring, and ecotourism education
💧 4. Ecological Services & Water Monitoring
- Number of Posts: ~13
- Fields of Study: Ecology, Hydrology, Water Resource Management, Horticulture, Climate Science
- Key Duties:
- Monitoring catchments, wetlands, and rivers
- Supporting climate change programmes and ecological assessments
- Assisting with plant care and horticultural tasks
🌲 5. Forestry & Occupational Health
- Number of Posts: ~14
- Fields of Study: Forestry, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science
- Key Duties:
- Tree planting and nursery operations
- Conducting health and safety checks
- Supporting green initiatives and forest maintenance activities
📊 6. Project Management Officer
- Number of Posts: ~2
- Fields of Study: Environmental Management or Science
- Key Duties:
- Assisting with environmental project planning
- Supporting impact assessments and reporting
- Working on capital infrastructure and green project delivery
🌟 Benefits of Joining the Internship Programme
Participating in the Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo Youth Graduate Internship has multiple advantages:
✅ Hands‑on Experience
You will work alongside experienced professionals in environmental science, conservation, public education, and city planning — applying your academic knowledge to real‑world challenges.
💼 Professional Development
Gain valuable workplace skills such as project coordination, ecological monitoring, communication, and community engagement — all of which improve your employability.
🤝 Networking Opportunities
Work with government departments, NGOs, and environmental stakeholders, expanding your professional network for future career opportunities.
💚 Community Impact
Your work directly contributes to a greener, healthier Johannesburg — from conservation and biodiversity protection to public education and sustainable practice.
📩 How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare all required documentation and submit their applications via email to:
📧 EPWPYouthProgramme@jhbcityparks.com
Important:
- Include the correct reference code in the subject line based on the position you are applying for (e.g., conservationistepwp, enviroeducationepwp, safetyepwp).
- Attach your application letter, CV, certified qualifications, and proof of residence.
- Only apply for roles that match your qualifications and field of study.
🌍 Conclusion
The Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo Youth Graduate Internship 2026 is more than just a temporary position — it’s a stepping stone into a rewarding career in environmental and conservation fields. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife care, park management, climate action, ecological education, or sustainable urban development, this programme gives you the practical skills, experience, and confidence to succeed. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative opportunity that nurtures young talent and supports Johannesburg’s vision for greener, thriving communities.
📧 EPWPYouthProgramme@jhbcityparks.com