If you are an unemployed graduate looking for structured, paid work experience in South Africa’s mining and resources sector, the Exxaro Resources Internship Programme is one of the most competitive and career-focused opportunities available.
Internship Application Closing Date: 12 March 2026
Internship Application Location: Belfast, Mpumalanga
What Is the Exxaro Internship Programme?
The Exxaro Internship Programme is a 24-month graduate development contract designed to give recently qualified graduates practical workplace exposure aligned to their qualifications.
Interns:
- Work alongside experienced professionals
- Participate in live operational projects
- Follow structured training plans
- Receive a monthly stipend for the full duration of the contract
This is not short-term shadowing. It is a structured professional development programme aimed at preparing graduates for specialist and leadership roles.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is aimed at:
- Unemployed South African graduates
- Candidates holding a relevant undergraduate qualification
- Graduates with little or no formal work experience
- Individuals residing near Exxaro operational areas (preference given to host communities such as eMalahleni and Lephalale)
While preference is given to host communities, other qualified candidates may still apply.
Fields of Internship Placement
Available roles may vary per intake, but Exxaro typically offers internships in the following areas:
- Corporate Affairs
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Industrial, Mining)
- Finance and Accounting
- Data Science and Information Technology
- Community Development
- Occupational Hygiene
- Renewable Energy
- Geology and Mine Surveying
- Human Resources
- Environmental Management
Each internship is linked to specific qualification requirements, so applicants must ensure their degree matches the position.
What Interns Receive
The Exxaro Internship Programme offers more than just a stipend.
Interns benefit from:
- A structured Professional-in-Training (PIT) model
- Mentorship from senior professionals
- Exposure to operational mining and sustainability projects
- Industry registration support (for engineers and regulated professions)
- Potential pathway to permanent employment
Many former interns move into permanent positions within Exxaro after completing the programme.
Practical Arrangements
- Duration: 24 months
- Stipend: Paid monthly
- Accommodation: Not provided
- Transport: Interns are responsible for their own transport (company transport may be available at certain business units)
Applicants should consider relocation and accommodation costs before applying outside their home region.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online via the official Exxaro careers portal.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the official internship listings page.
- Select a position that matches your qualification.
- Create or log into your eRecruit profile.
- Complete your candidate profile accurately.
- Upload your CV, certified qualifications, academic transcripts and ID.
- Submit your application and keep your reference number.
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Important Reminders
- Only online applications are accepted.
- Exxaro does not charge any application fees.
- Selection is competitive.
- Closing dates vary per intake.
Always check the official portal for updated closing dates and requirements.
Why This Internship Is Worth Applying For
Graduate unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa, especially in technical fields. One of the biggest barriers to employment is the lack of workplace experience.
The Exxaro Internship Programme directly addresses this challenge by providing:
- Paid structured experience
- Industry exposure
- Professional mentorship
- Career progression opportunities
For graduates in engineering, environmental sciences, finance, data science or corporate services, this programme can be a strong foundation for a long-term career.
Final Advice
If you meet the requirements and are serious about building a career in the mining and renewable energy sector, apply early and ensure your documents are complete.
For the latest updates, always refer to the official Exxaro careers portal.