Start Your Conservation Career: Joburg City Parks & Zoo Youth Graduate Programme 2026
[Joburg City Parks & Zoo] is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026 opportunities. The closing date for applications is 18 February 2026.
If you’re a 15‑25 year old living in Johannesburg, finished a diploma or degree in an environmental field, and want a paid, hands‑on job that could lead to a career in conservation or public service, this is for you.
You’ll work six months inside parks, zoos, and city infrastructure, learning real skills while earning a daily stipend of R271,04.
What the programme looks like day‑to‑day
- Rotational learning – You’ll switch between departments (Zoo, Education, Project Management, etc.) to get a taste of every role.
- Hands‑on tasks – From feeding animals to monitoring rivers, you’ll do real work that counts on your CV.
- Mentorship – Senior staff will guide you and give you feedback every week.
- Paid – R271,04 a day, plus travel costs for on‑site work.
- Networking – You’ll meet professionals in the environmental sector and make contacts that can help you get future jobs or bursaries.
Who can join?
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age | 18–35 years |
| Qualification | NQF Level 6 diploma or degree (360 credits minimum) |
| Location | Must be a resident of the City of Johannesburg |
| Disability | Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply |
Documents you’ll need
- Cover letter – Explain why you want to work in parks or conservation.
- Curriculum Vitae – Highlight any fieldwork or volunteer experience.
- Certified copies of your qualification – Diploma or degree transcripts.
- Proof of Johannesburg residence – e.g., utility bill, ID.
How to apply – 5 easy steps
- Grab your docs – CV, cover letter, certificates, proof of residence.
- Write a quick motivation letter – 1‑2 paragraphs, no fluff.
- Send everything to graduatep@jhbcityparks.com.
- Use the subject line “Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026 – [Your Name]”.
- Apply before 18 February 2026 – late applications won’t be considered.
Tip: Email early, so you’re not rushing on the last day and can double‑check your documents.
Departments and what you’ll do
| Dept | Positions | Key duties | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg Zoo | 15 | Cleaning enclosures, feeding, monitoring animals, admin | Environmental Management / Conservation |
| Environmental Education | 8 | Awareness campaigns, school outreach, curriculum design | Environmental Management / Sciences |
| Project Management | 2 | Reporting, coordination, reception, documentation | Project Management / Public Administration |
| Protected Areas & Conservation | 18 | Alien plant control, trail upkeep, fire management, law enforcement | Environmental Management / Conservation |
| Integrated Catchment Management | 5 | Water conservation, ecological monitoring | Environmental Management / Conservation / Water Resource |
| Nursery Management | 10 | Tree propagation, planting, compliance | — |
| Capital Infrastructure | 2 | Project scoping, environmental assessments | Environmental Management / Science |
Why this matters for you
- First‑hand experience that looks great on a CV.
- Networking with city officials and conservationists.
- Stepping stone to permanent jobs or higher training (SETAs, university programmes).
- Pay while you learn – no need to find a part‑time gig elsewhere.
After the programme – career options
- Environmental Officer
- Conservation Officer
- Biodiversity Field Technician
- Environmental Education Practitioner
- Water Resource Management Assistant
- Nursery & Forestry Specialist
- Compliance Monitor
- Project Administrator in green infrastructure
Many graduates go on to secure internships, apply for government trainee programmes, or enter SETA‑funded courses.
FAQs in a nutshell
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | 18–35 years old, living in Johannesburg, with a Level 6 diploma/degree. |
| Is it a job or training? | A six‑month skills‑development programme – not a permanent role. |
| Do I need prior experience? | No, it’s for recent graduates. |
| Is there a stipend? | Yes, R271,04 per day. |
| Can people outside Johannesburg join? | No, only city residents. |
| What is the closing date? | 18 February 2026. |
Ready to apply?
Apply right here before it closes.
Want more details? Check the official portal on the Joburg City Parks & Zoo homepage.
Final thoughts
Think of this as your first big break in the environmental world. You’ll earn cash, build a portfolio, and possibly unlock future paid roles. Don’t wait until the last day; a few hours’ prep can set you apart. Good luck!
