SANParks Careers

SANParks CATHSSETA Internships 2026

by

South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with Culture Arts Tourism Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA), invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the 2026 Internship Programme.

Two 12-month paid programmes are open:

  • Groenkloof National Park & SANBI Pretoria (Gauteng) – Closing 06 March 2026
  • Cape Region (Agulhas, Table Mountain & Tankwa Karoo National Parks) – Closing 09 March 2026

Stipend: R6,335.69 – R9,088.37 per month (depending on NQF level)

What Is the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme?

This is a structured graduate development programme designed to provide practical workplace experience within South Africa’s public conservation and biodiversity sector.

Interns are placed within SANParks operations and partner institutions for 12 months to develop professional skills in areas such as:

  • Human Resources
  • Labour Relations
  • Safety Management
  • Occupational Health & Safety
  • Biodiversity and conservation support functions

Important: This internship does not guarantee permanent employment after completion.

Programme 1: Groenkloof National Park & SANBI Pretoria (Gauteng)

Locations:

  • Groenkloof National Park (Head Office), Pretoria
  • South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), Pretoria

Closing Date: 06 March 2026

Fields of Study Accepted

  • Human Resources Development / Training Management
  • Industrial Psychology
  • Labour Relations
  • Safety Management
  • Occupational Health & Safety

What Interns Will Do

  • Support HR learning and development initiatives
  • Assist with payroll and performance management
  • Contribute to Occupational Health & Safety programmes
  • Participate in Human Capital Management and Labour Relations projects

Enquiries: Ms Bongiwe Ndaba – 012 426 5041
(Do not send applications to this contact.)

Programme 2: Cape Region Internship Programme

Locations:

  • Agulhas National Park
  • Table Mountain National Park
  • Tankwa Karoo National Park

Closing Date: 09 March 2026

This programme offers exposure to conservation, tourism and biodiversity operations within some of South Africa’s most iconic national parks.

Stipend range and qualification requirements are the same as Programme 1.

Eligibility Requirements (Both Programmes)

Applicants must:

  • Be a South African citizen aged 18–35
  • Be unemployed
  • Hold a National Diploma, Bachelor’s or Honours Degree (NQF 6–8)
  • Have studied at a South African Public Higher Education Institution
  • Have not previously worked in the Public Service or Public Entities
  • Have not previously participated in a Public Service internship
  • Be available for interviews and assessments

Additional Notes:

  • If applying outside your home area, you must arrange your own transport and accommodation (park accommodation may be available but is not guaranteed).
  • Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.
  • Employment Equity principles apply. Preference will be given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA).

Required Supporting Documents

All applications must include:

  • Updated CV
  • Certified copy of Matric certificate
  • Certified copies of qualifications and academic transcripts
  • Certified copy of South African ID

Manual applications will not be accepted. Applications must be submitted online.

How to Apply

Apply online through the official SANParks portal:

Groenkloof & SANBI Pretoria Programme:
https://www.sanparks.org/corporate/vacancies/sanparks-cathsseta-internship-programme-groenkloof-national-park-and-sanbi-pretoria

Cape Region Programme:
https://www.sanparks.org/corporate/vacancies/sanparks-cathsseta-internship-programme-cape-region

Closing Dates:

  • Groenkloof & SANBI Pretoria: 06 March 2026
  • Cape Region: 09 March 2026

If you do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

Why Apply?

  • 12 months of structured workplace experience
  • Monthly stipend between R6,335.69 and R9,088.37
  • Exposure to South Africa’s conservation and biodiversity sector
  • Public sector experience that strengthens your CV
  • Opportunity to work within nationally respected institutions

Important Reminders

  • Do not pay anyone to apply. The application is free.
  • Submit certified documents.
  • Apply before the closing date.
  • Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

error: Content is protected!!