The Council for Geoscience (CGS) has opened applications for its SHEQ Internship Programme 2026, offering unemployed South African graduates a rare opportunity to gain two years of structured workplace experience in Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ).
This 24-month paid internship is hosted within a national science council environment and is ideal for graduates seeking hands-on exposure to occupational health and safety compliance, audits, and risk management under professional mentorship.
Internship Overview
- Programme: SHEQ Internship Programme
- Organisation: Council for Geoscience (CGS)
- Number of Positions: 8
- Contract Duration: 24 months (Fixed Term)
- Monthly Stipend: R13 000
- Closing Date: 28 January 2026
- Reporting To: Manager – Safety, Health, Environment & Quality
Internship Locations
Successful candidates will be placed at CGS offices across South Africa:
- Pretoria – 4 positions
- Bellville – 1 position
- Polokwane – 1 position
- Gqeberha – 1 position
- Pietermaritzburg – 1 position
Purpose of the Internship
The internship aims to support the Council for Geoscience in meeting its Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) obligations while developing interns into competent SHEQ practitioners.
Interns will receive practical exposure to workplace safety systems, environmental controls, and quality compliance within a regulated scientific and research environment.
Key Responsibilities
Under supervision and mentorship, interns will assist with:
- Implementing Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental (OHSE) plans
- Maintaining SHEQ records, reports, and documentation
- Participating in workplace inspections and compliance audits
- Monitoring correct usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Supporting occupational hygiene and safety risk assessments
- Assisting with hazard identification and risk mitigation measures
- Promoting SHEQ awareness among internal and external stakeholders
- Attending relevant training sessions and workshops
- Providing general SHEQ administrative support
Skills & Competencies Required
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A proactive and willing-to-learn attitude
- Basic to intermediate computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Professional-level English communication
- Ability to work responsibly within a regulated environment
Minimum Educational Requirements
To qualify, applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric), and
- National Diploma (NQF Level 6) – preferably in Occupational Health and Safety
🎓 A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant SHEQ-related field will be an added advantage.
Employment Equity Commitment
The Council for Geoscience is committed to Employment Equity and diversity.
Preference may be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, and women and previously disadvantaged individuals are strongly encouraged to apply.
Important Application Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If no response is received within 8 weeks of the closing date, consider the application unsuccessful
- All appointments are subject to positive vetting and background checks
- Personal information will be processed in accordance with the POPI Act (Act 4 of 2013)
- ❌ Applications submitted via email or social media will not be accepted
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only through the official CGS recruitment platform.
👉 Apply here for the Council for Geoscience SHEQ Internship Programme 2026
📩 Enquiries only: recruitment@geoscience.org.za
(Applications sent to this email will not be considered)
Why This Internship Is Valuable
This programme offers:
- Two full years of paid workplace experience
- Exposure to SHEQ systems in a national science council
- Practical understanding of OHS legislation and compliance
- Professional mentorship and skills development
- A strong foundation for careers in safety, health, environment and quality management
Graduates completing this programme are well-positioned for roles in SHEQ coordination, compliance, auditing, and risk management across both public and private sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this internship open to employed graduates?
No. Only unemployed graduates are eligible.
How long is the internship?
The internship runs for 24 months.
Is the internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend of R13 000.
Can I apply if I have a degree instead of a diploma?
Yes. A degree is considered an added advantage.
Can I email my application?
No. Applications must be submitted online only.
Related Opportunities on SETACareers
- Unemployed Graduates Wanted: York Timbers Opens 12-Month Internship Programme
- CRL Rights Commission Internships 2026: Paid Legal Internships for LLB Graduates
- NAMC Graduate Placement Programme 2026: Your Path to Professional Growth
- 174 Eskom NTCSA Learnerships & Graduate Internships 2026
