Unemployed Graduates Wanted: York Timbers Opens 12-Month Internship Programme

York Timbers has opened applications for its 2025/2026 Internship Experience Programme, inviting unemployed South African graduates to gain real workplace exposure within one of the country’s leading forestry and timber companies.

This 12-month paid internship is designed to help young graduates transition from academic study into the professional environment, while building industry-relevant skills, confidence, and a competitive CV.

Internship Overview

  • Programme Name: Internship Experience Programme
  • Company: York Timbers
  • Duration: 12 months
  • Contract Type: Fixed-term
  • Intake Size: 11 interns
  • Eligibility Age: 18–35 years
  • Closing Date: 23 January 2026
  • Location: York Timbers operations (South Africa)

Fields Available in the 2025/2026 Intake

York Timbers will place interns across multiple operational and support divisions:

  • Human Resources – 2 positions
  • Logistics – 1 position
  • Administration – 1 position
  • Finance – 3 positions
  • Agriculture – 2 positions
  • Fire & Road Management – 1 position
  • Technical Security – 1 position

Each placement offers hands-on exposure to real business activities and daily operational responsibilities.

What the Internship Offers

The York Timbers Internship Experience Programme focuses on practical learning rather than classroom theory.

Interns will benefit from:

  • Real-world work experience in a professional environment
  • Mentorship and guidance from experienced staff
  • Exposure to forestry operations and corporate functions
  • Skills development aligned with employer expectations
  • Improved employability after completion

The stipend and employment conditions will be provided in line with York Timbers’ internal policies.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Be unemployed at the time of application
  • Be between 18 and 35 years old
  • Be a South African citizen
  • Hold a diploma or university degree relevant to the chosen field
  • Be available to commit to the full 12-month programme

York Timbers applies Employment Equity principles, ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process.

How to Apply for the York Timbers Internship

Applications must be submitted by email only.

Application Email Details

📧 Email Address: Internships@york.co.za
🗓 Closing Date: 23 January 2026

Email Subject Line

Clearly indicate the internship field you are applying for, for example:
“Finance Internship Application”

Documents Required (Important)

Your application email must include all of the following:

  • A motivational cover letter explaining your interest and learning goals
  • An updated CV
  • Certified copy of your South African ID
  • Certified copies of qualifications or academic certificates

⚠️ Applications with missing, unclear, or uncertified documents will not be considered.

Important Notes to Remember

  • Late applications will be automatically disqualified
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
  • Incomplete applications will not be reviewed
  • The internship does not guarantee permanent employment, but greatly improves employability

Why This Internship Is Worth Applying For

Graduate unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa. This internship provides a structured opportunity to:

  • Gain practical work experience
  • Build professional networks
  • Learn workplace systems and processes
  • Strengthen your CV with industry exposure

York Timbers’ long-standing presence in the forestry sector means interns learn from professionals working in an industry that supports economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this internship open to currently employed graduates?

No. Only unemployed graduates are eligible.

Can I apply for more than one field?

It is recommended to apply for one field that matches your qualification.

Is the internship paid?

Yes. A stipend is provided according to company policy.

Will I get a permanent job after the internship?

There is no guarantee, but the programme significantly improves future job prospects.

Where will the internship take place?

At York Timbers’ operational sites in South Africa.

Related Opportunities on SETACareers

Itumeleng Ndlovu

Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills development programmes. She specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges, and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable, and up-to-date guidance. She is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so South African students and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence. Contact: info@setacareers.co.za