Kickstart Your Career with the City of Johannesburg Human Settlements Internship 2026!
Are you a bright, young South African graduate residing in Johannesburg, eager to gain practical work experience and contribute to your community? The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) has announced an exciting Student Internship opportunity within its Human Settlements Department for 2026. This initiative is a core part of the City’s commitment to fostering talent by providing critical work-based training and experiential learning, essential for completing or complementing your academic qualifications.
About the Internship Opportunity
This sought-after programme, detailed in Student Internship Circular 006/2026, offers a chance to work directly on vital projects impacting the lives of Johannesburg residents. It's an ideal stepping stone for those passionate about urban development and public service.
- Closing Date: Monday, 02 March 2026 – Act swiftly to not miss out!
- Duration: Up to 18 months – A significant period to truly embed yourself and learn.
- Location: 222 Smit Street, Braamfontein – Central and accessible.
- Remuneration: R10 109,86 per month (Basic Salary, no additional benefits) – A competitive stipend for an internship.
- Designation: Internship – Policy, Planning & Research – A strategic role with real impact.
Who Should Apply?
The CoJ is specifically looking for dedicated young individuals from Johannesburg communities who are ready to make a difference. This opportunity is designed for:
- Youth who are current residents within any of the Johannesburg communities.
- Students who have never participated in a formal internship programme before, or whose previous internship was unrelated to their current field of study.
- Strictly City of Johannesburg residents only.
Minimum Requirements to Qualify
To be considered for this invaluable experience, applicants must meet the following academic and foundational criteria:
- A National Senior Certificate (Grade 12, NQF Level 4).
- An NQF Level 7 qualification, indicating a minimum of 360 credits, in one of these relevant fields:
- Housing
- Human Settlements
- Public Administration
- Public Policy
- Development Studies
- Law
- Related Social Sciences disciplines
What You'll Be Doing & Learning
As an intern in the Policy, Planning & Research unit, you will be at the forefront of strategic initiatives, gaining comprehensive skills and practical exposure. Your responsibilities and learning areas will include:
- Primary Functions:
- Contributing significantly to research activities within the Directorate.
- Assisting in crucial policy development and foundational baseline research.
- Coordinating stakeholder engagements and facilitating public participation processes.
- Providing essential administrative support within the Directorate to ensure smooth operations.
- Key Learning Areas:
- Developing the ability to produce high-quality research reports.
- Understanding and actively participating in complex policy development processes.
- Mastering stakeholder coordination and managing public forums effectively.
- Gaining expertise in administrative support and project coordination, vital for any professional role.
Essential Competencies for Success
To thrive in this role, the CoJ seeks candidates with a strong blend of personal attributes and technical skills:
- Leading Competencies: An unwavering commitment to confidentiality, exceptional organisational skills, strong analytical and research capabilities, sound problem-solving and decision-making ability, a robust work ethic, the capacity to work under pressure and independently, and excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
- Core Competencies: Proficiency in ICT literacy (especially MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint), strong English language communication skills, foundational knowledge of the public service sector, an understanding of the challenges within Human Settlements, and adherence to Batho Pele Principles and professionalism.
Important Application Tips & Notes
Please take note of these crucial details to ensure a smooth application process:
- This internship is designed not to exceed 18 months, offering a focused learning journey.
- The City of Johannesburg reserves the right not to make an appointment, even if suitable candidates apply.
- Only online applications will be accepted; manual submissions will not be considered.
- If you do not receive a response within six weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
- Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for comprehensive background checks, including credit checks, criminal record checks, employment verification, and identity validation.
How to Apply for this Golden Opportunity
This is your chance to launch a meaningful career in public service! Applications must be submitted exclusively online. Visit the official City of Johannesburg website (`www.joburg.org.za`) and navigate to the careers section to find `Student Internship Circular 006/2026`. Alternatively, look for the direct application link in the official circular. Ensure you diligently complete the online job application form and attach certified copies of your qualification(s) and your South African ID document. Double-check all submissions for accuracy before finalising.
Don't Miss Out!
This City of Johannesburg Human Settlements Internship is more than just a job; it's an investment in your future. Gain unparalleled experience, build a professional network, and contribute to the development of South Africa's largest metropolitan area. Act fast, meticulously prepare your application, and submit it well before the 02 March 2026 closing date. Your career in public service starts here – good luck!
