The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is looking for fresh graduates to join its SHEQ Graduate Internship Programme 2026. This is a two‑year paid role that gives you hands‑on experience in safety, health, environment and quality (SHEQ) across several provinces in South Africa. If you’re interested in learning how to keep workplaces safe and compliant with national rules, this internship could be a great start to your career.
What the internship looks like
- Program name – Council for Geoscience SHEQ Graduate Internship Programme 2026
- Contract type – Fixed‑term, 24‑month employment
- Number of spots – 8 interns in total
- Monthly pay – R13,000 for the entire duration
- Locations – Pretoria (4), Bellville (1), Polokwane (1), Gqeberha (1), Pietermaritzburg (1)
- Reports to – Manager, Safety, Health, Environment & Quality
- Minimum education – National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Occupational Health & Safety
- Closing date – 28 January 2026
You will work under experienced professionals and get to practice real tasks like:
- Drafting and following OHS plans that protect workers
- Making sure the company follows the OHS Act and other laws
- Checking that all staff use the right personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Carrying out workplace and environmental risk checks
- Helping to spot hazards and suggest ways to stop them
- Taking part in SHEQ audits, paperwork and reporting
- Attending workshops and training sessions
- Talking to different teams and building strong written and spoken skills
The goal is to move you from being a fresh graduate to a ready‑to‑work professional in safety and environment roles.
What CGS really wants
CGS cares more about your attitude than just your grades. They want:
- Friendly, clear communication skills
- A strong desire to learn and follow advice
- A proactive, “can‑do” approach to problems
- Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Good business‑level English
You don’t need a lot of work experience. A solid diploma in OHS is enough, but a degree would help. All applicants must be South African citizens and will be checked for suitability.
Application tips
- Don’t send your application to the email address – that is only for questions.
- Social‑media messages are not accepted.
- Only those who are shortlisted will hear from CGS.
- If you don’t get a response within 8 weeks after the deadline, it likely means your application wasn’t successful.
- Your details will be protected under the POPI Act.
To apply, click the link below and follow the instructions on the CGS website.
Apply for the Council for Geoscience SHEQ Graduate Internship Programme 2026 here
How Edupstairs can help
Edupstairs isn’t just posting job ads – we give you a push to win them. Here’s what you can do before you apply:
- Update your CV so it looks clean and professional.
- Highlight any SHEQ classes, labs or projects you did in school.
- Show you understand the OHS Act – it’s a good talking point.
- Explain why safety and environment matters to you, not just that you studied it.
If you’re serious about a future in SHEQ, this internship is a strong foundation.
Career options after the internship
Once you finish the programme, you’ll be ready for roles such as:
- SHEQ Officer
- Occupational Health & Safety Practitioner
- Safety Compliance Officer
- Risk & Environmental Officer
- Quality Assurance Officer
- SHEQ Coordinator
Many people who finish go on to get professional registrations, join SETA‑accredited jobs, or do further studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly stipend?
R13,000 for 24 months.Do I need a degree?
No. A National Diploma is the lowest requirement.Is prior work experience necessary?
No. The internship is designed for graduates.Can I apply from outside the listed cities?
Yes, but you must be ready to move if you get the job.Will this internship turn into a permanent job?
There is no automatic offer of permanent employment, but the experience boosts your chances for future SHEQ roles.When does the application close?
28 January 2026.
Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not part of the Council for Geoscience. Check the official CGS career portal for the most up‑to‑date information. Our role is only to give a risk assessment and support for applicants.
Verified / Low Risk – The details come from the official CGS website, so you can trust the information.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions, and good luck with your application!
