Meta Description:
The City of Johannesburg invites unemployed graduates to apply for the 2026 Water Management and Biodiversity Learning Programme. Earn R10,109 per month while gaining hands-on experience in environmental planning, water regulation, and biodiversity management. Apply online before 22 October 2025.
Introduction: Empowering the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
Water is the foundation of life, and in a rapidly growing city like Johannesburg, managing it sustainably is vital. The Water Management and Biodiversity Learning Programme 2026, offered by the City of Johannesburg’s Environmental Infrastructure Service Department, is designed to nurture the next generation of professionals dedicated to protecting South Africa’s most precious natural resource.
This programme offers more than just an internship — it’s a gateway to a meaningful career where science, policy, and sustainability meet. If you’re passionate about the environment and eager to gain real-world experience in water regulation, biodiversity protection, and environmental management, this opportunity is for you.
Programme Overview
The Water Management and Biodiversity Learning Programme 2026 falls under the Environmental Infrastructure Service Department, within the Water Management and Biodiversity Branch. The internship’s purpose is to equip young graduates with practical skills and administrative experience in key areas like catchment management, water quality monitoring, and open space planning.
The position is based at Traduna House, 118 Jorissen Street, Braamfontein, right in the heart of Johannesburg’s administrative hub. Interns will be immersed in the operations that keep the city’s water systems running and ecosystems thriving.
Remuneration
Successful candidates will earn a monthly stipend of R10,109.86 (basic salary, no benefits). While the internship does not include medical aid or pension contributions, it offers substantial professional value through structured mentorship, fieldwork exposure, and engagement with experienced environmental specialists.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 learning programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
- A Grade 12/Matric (NQF Level 4).
- A completed Degree (NQF Level 7) in one of the following:
- Town and Regional Planning
- Environmental Science / Environmental Management
- Geoscience / Geohydrology
- Employment Status:
- Applicants must be unemployed graduates who have not previously participated in an internship programme.
- Residency:
- Only City of Johannesburg residents are eligible.
These criteria ensure that the opportunity supports local youth while fostering inclusivity and community-driven development.
Primary Function
The main goal of this internship is to provide administrative and technical support to the Water Management and Biodiversity Directorate. Interns will work across several sub-directorates, including:
Useful Links:
- Learnerships Programme 2025
- Online courses
- Funding Bursaries
- Internships Programme
- Youth Opportunities
- Water Service Regulation and Policy Development
- Catchment Management and Water Quality
- Open Space Planning
This rotation-based structure ensures participants gain holistic exposure to how the city safeguards water resources and urban biodiversity.
Key Learning Areas
The programme offers rich learning experiences through diverse activities and responsibilities:
| Learning Focus | Description |
|---|---|
| Personnel Development Coordination | Support staff training and maintain personnel development records. |
| Borehole Applications | Assist in consolidating and circulating borehole application documents in compliance with city policies. |
| Development Applications | Handle the circulation and documentation of environmental development applications. |
| Monitoring Programmes | Contribute to monitoring and reporting systems related to water quality and environmental compliance. |
| Policy and Procedure Support | Learn how environmental policies and municipal regulations are formulated and implemented. |
| Administrative Support | Assist with organizing meetings, preparing reports, and maintaining documentation for the Directorate. |
These duties build a solid foundation in environmental governance, project coordination, and municipal operations — essential skills for anyone aspiring to work in public sector sustainability.
Leading and Core Competencies
To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate a combination of technical knowledge and interpersonal strengths.
Leading Competencies:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
- Strong communication and coordination skills
- Ability to manage multiple administrative tasks efficiently
Core Competencies:
- Understanding of Environmental Management and Town Planning
- Familiarity with key legislation, including:
- The National Water Act
- The Water Services Act
- Basic grasp of Water Resource Management concepts
- Passion for sustainability and public service
These competencies ensure participants contribute meaningfully while growing professionally in a structured learning environment.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
The Water Management and Biodiversity Learning Programme 2026 offers numerous advantages beyond financial compensation:
- Practical Experience – Work alongside professionals who manage Johannesburg’s water and ecological infrastructure.
- Career Readiness – Build a strong portfolio for roles in government, consulting, or environmental NGOs.
- Networking Opportunities – Collaborate with city planners, engineers, and environmental scientists.
- Community Impact – Contribute to real projects that protect water quality, enhance biodiversity, and promote sustainable urban living.
- Pathway to Employment – Many City of Johannesburg interns go on to secure permanent positions in related departments.
This programme empowers you to transform your academic background into measurable, community-based impact.
Application Process
Applications are only accepted online, and no manual submissions will be considered. Follow these steps carefully:
How to Apply
- Navigate to the careers or internship section.
- Click on the link:
Apply Online Here - Visit : www.joburg.org.za
- Complete all required fields accurately.
- Upload your supporting documents, including:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Matric certificate
- Academic transcript
- Degree certificate
- Proof of residence
- Updated CV
- Review your application for accuracy before submitting.
Important Dates
- Publication Date: Thursday, 09 October 2025
- Closing Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
Late applications will not be considered, so submit well before the deadline.
Selection and Contact Information
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive a response within six weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
For enquiries related to this opportunity, contact:
Siphiwe Khumalo
📞 Tel: (011) 082 7997
Why This Programme Matters
Johannesburg’s environmental future depends on skilled, dedicated professionals who understand both nature and infrastructure. With climate challenges rising and water systems under strain, the city needs forward-thinking graduates ready to innovate and adapt.
By joining this internship, you become part of a broader mission — protecting biodiversity, improving water efficiency, and shaping sustainable policies for Africa’s largest urban economy.
Your role, though temporary, contributes to long-term solutions that improve water access, safeguard green spaces, and promote eco-friendly city planning.
Final Thoughts
The City of Johannesburg Water Management and Biodiversity Learning Programme 2026 is a rare opportunity to gain specialized environmental experience in a dynamic, real-world setting. With structured mentorship, practical exposure, and a competitive stipend, it serves as both a learning journey and a career launchpad.
If you’re an unemployed graduate passionate about the environment, water management, or urban sustainability — this is your moment.
Apply before 22 October 2025 and take the first step toward a career that makes a measurable difference in South Africa’s future.
