Johannesburg Youth Graduate Programme 2026: 60 Positions Available at City Parks & Zoo
The Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCPZ) has opened applications for its Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026, offering 60 paid internship opportunities in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). This programme provides young environmental graduates with hands-on experience in conservation, environmental management, and related fields.
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Programme Duration: 6 months
Daily Stipend: R271.04
Total Positions: 60
Application Deadline: 18 February 2026
Reference Number: EDMS 256981
Who Can Apply?
Academic Requirements
The programme targets graduates who have completed:
- Matric plus three years of tertiary education (M + 3)
- A qualification with 360 credits minimum
- A Degree or Diploma at NQF Level 6
Additional Eligibility Criteria
- Age Range: 18 to 35 years old
- Location: Must be a resident of the City of Johannesburg
- Inclusivity: People with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
Documentation Checklist
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- A formal application letter
- Current curriculum vitae
- Certified copies of academic qualifications
- Valid proof of residence in the City of Johannesburg
Important: Only applicants residing within the City of Johannesburg municipal boundaries will be considered.
Career Opportunities Across Seven Departments
Johannesburg Zoo Department (15 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Environmental Management and/or Conservation Management
The zoo offers hands-on experience in animal care and environmental education. Successful candidates will:
- Manage and clean animal enclosures
- Participate in animal feeding programmes
- Monitor and document animal behaviour
- Handle administrative documentation
- Conduct environmental education and awareness programmes
This role provides unique exposure to wildlife management and public education within an urban zoo setting.
Environmental Education Unit (8 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Environmental Management or Environmental Sciences
Environmental educators play a crucial role in raising public awareness about environmental conservation. Responsibilities include:
- Developing and delivering environmental education programmes
- Planning and executing commemorative events for environmental theme days
- Conducting outreach campaigns in schools across Johannesburg
- Engaging with City of Johannesburg residents on environmental matters
- Implementing curriculum-aligned educational programmes at education centers and nature reserves
Project Management Division (2 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Project Management, Public Administration, or Office Administration
These positions focus on the organizational backbone of environmental projects:
- Coordinating and managing environmental projects
- Facilitating communication between stakeholders
- Preparing reports and documentation
- Monitoring and evaluating project outcomes
- Providing reception and office administration support
Protected Areas and Conservation (18 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Environmental Management and/or Conservation Management
This is the largest department in the programme, reflecting the significant conservation work happening across Johannesburg’s protected areas. The role encompasses two main focus areas:
Conservation Maintenance:
- Controlling alien and invasive plant species
- Maintaining hiking trails and nature paths
- Monitoring fence integrity and boundaries
- Managing koppies and ridge ecosystems
- Overseeing bird sanctuary operations
- Managing dams and riverbank ecosystems
- Implementing controlled burning as a management tool
Law Enforcement and Compliance:
- Monitoring protected area activities
- Reporting violations and incidents
- Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations
This position offers comprehensive exposure to practical conservation management in an urban context.
Integrated Catchment Management (5 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Environmental Management, Conservation, Water Resource Management, or Hydrology
This specialized role focuses on water and ecosystem management:
- Managing catchment areas, botanical gardens, and nature reserves
- Conducting ecological assessments to determine ecosystem carrying capacity
- Implementing wildlife management strategies
- Controlling aquatic and terrestrial alien plant species
- Managing arboriculture and horticultural programmes
- Operating integrated herbarium services
Ideal for graduates interested in water resource management and ecosystem conservation.
Nursery Management (10 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Management, or Forestry Management
The nursery management team supports Johannesburg’s urban greening initiatives:
- Managing plant nursery operations and propagation
- Conducting tree census activities across the city
- Implementing safety and health protocols in nursery environments
- Supporting tree planting initiatives throughout Johannesburg
This role combines practical horticulture with urban forestry management.
Capital Infrastructure (2 Positions)
Required Qualifications: Environmental Management or Environmental Science
Infrastructure-focused environmental specialists will:
- Scope and assess development projects for environmental impact
- Conduct general project management activities
- Ensure environmental compliance in infrastructure development
- Integrate environmental considerations into capital projects
Application Process and Timeline
How to Submit Your Application
Email Address: graduatep@jhbcityparks.com
Enquiries: smagolo@jhbcityparks.com
All application materials must be submitted via email to the designated address. Ensure all required documents are attached in a single email submission.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Closing Date: 18 February 2026
- Programme Duration: 6 months from commencement
Late applications will not be considered, so applicants should prepare their documentation well in advance of the deadline.
Download the advert here: Johannesburg Youth Graduate Programme 2026
What to Expect from the Programme
Financial Compensation
Participants receive a daily stipend of R271.04 for the duration of the six-month programme. This stipend is designed to support young graduates while they gain valuable work experience.
Skills and Experience Development
The programme offers practical, hands-on experience in various environmental and conservation fields. Participants will:
- Work alongside experienced environmental professionals
- Gain exposure to real-world conservation challenges
- Develop technical skills specific to their department
- Build professional networks within the environmental sector
- Enhance their CVs with practical work experience
Career Implications
While the programme does not guarantee permanent employment with JCPZ or DFFE, it provides:
- Valuable work experience for early-career environmental professionals
- References from recognized environmental institutions
- Networking opportunities within the conservation sector
- Enhanced employability in the environmental job market
- Practical skills that complement academic qualifications
Why This Programme Matters
Addressing Youth Unemployment
South Africa faces significant youth unemployment challenges. Programmes like this provide crucial entry points into professional careers, particularly in the specialized environmental sector where practical experience is highly valued.
Environmental Conservation in Urban Settings
Johannesburg’s green spaces, nature reserves, and zoo require dedicated conservation efforts. This programme ensures the next generation of environmental professionals understands urban conservation challenges and solutions.
Skills Development for Environmental Careers
The environmental sector requires professionals with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This six-month internship bridges the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
Tips for a Successful Application
Tailor Your Application Letter
- Clearly state which department interests you most
- Explain how your qualifications align with the position requirements
- Demonstrate genuine interest in environmental conservation
- Highlight any relevant volunteer work or extracurricular activities
Prepare a Strong CV
- Include all relevant educational achievements
- List any environmental projects or research completed during your studies
- Mention computer skills and software proficiency
- Include references from academic supervisors or previous employers
Ensure Document Certification
Academic qualifications must be certified copies. Visit a police station, post office, or commissioner of oaths to have your documents certified well before the deadline.
Verify Your Residency Documentation
Acceptable proof of residence includes:
- Recent municipal account statements
- Lease agreements showing Johannesburg address
- Affidavits confirming residency
- Recent bank statements with Johannesburg address
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for multiple departments?
While the advertisement doesn’t explicitly prohibit this, it’s advisable to focus on the department that best matches your qualifications and interests.
Q: What happens after the six-month programme ends?
There is no expectation of permanent employment. However, the experience gained significantly enhances your employability in the environmental sector.
Q: Are living expenses covered?
The daily stipend of R271.04 is provided, but participants are responsible for their own accommodation and transport.
Q: Can I apply if I’m currently studying?
No, you must have already completed your qualification (M + 3 minimum).
Q: What if I have a disability?
People with disabilities are actively encouraged to apply and should indicate this in their application.
The Partnership: JCPZ and DFFE
This programme represents a collaboration between Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. This partnership ensures:
- Alignment with national environmental priorities
- Access to broader environmental networks
- Integration of local and national conservation strategies
- Quality training and mentorship for participants
About Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo
JCPZ manages Johannesburg’s extensive network of parks, nature reserves, and the Johannesburg Zoo. The organization plays a vital role in:
- Maintaining over 2,000 parks across the city
- Managing nature reserves and protected areas
- Operating the Johannesburg Zoo
- Implementing urban greening initiatives
- Environmental education and awareness programmes
Contact Information
Applications: graduatep@jhbcityparks.com
Enquiries: smagolo@jhbcityparks.com
Physical Address: City Parks House, 40 De Korte Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2000
Website: www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com
Take Action Now
With only 60 positions available and potentially hundreds of applicants, competition will be intense. Qualified candidates should:
- Gather all required documentation immediately
- Prepare a compelling application letter
- Update your CV to highlight relevant experience
- Get your qualifications certified
- Submit your application well before the 18 February 2026 deadline
This programme offers a valuable stepping stone into environmental careers. Whether your passion lies in wildlife conservation, environmental education, water resource management, or urban forestry, there’s an opportunity aligned with your interests and qualifications.
Don’t miss this chance to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and contribute to Johannesburg’s environmental conservation efforts. Start preparing your application today.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the official advertisement (REF EDMS 256981) published by Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo. Applicants should verify all information with JCPZ directly through the provided contact details.
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