Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026 (X60 Opportunities) – Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo
If you are a young graduate living in the City of Johannesburg and looking for real-world work experience in environmental management, conservation, project management, or public service, the Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026 offered by Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCPZ) is an opportunity worth applying for.
This 6-month paid graduate programme, implemented in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), is designed to help unemployed graduates gain hands-on workplace exposure while contributing meaningfully to the protection, management, and sustainability of Johannesburg’s natural and environmental assets.
With 60 graduate positions available across multiple departments and a daily stipend of R271.04, this programme offers both financial support and valuable career-building experience.
Programme Overview
Municipal Youth Graduate Programme is a structured, short-term graduate development initiative aimed at empowering youth between the ages of 18 and 35. Successful candidates will be placed within various operational units of Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo, where they will gain practical skills, professional mentorship, and exposure to municipal environmental operations.
The programme focuses on:
- Environmental protection and conservation
- Public environmental education and awareness
- Project coordination and administration
- Protected areas management
- Nursery and forestry management
- Environmental compliance and infrastructure support
This opportunity is open only to youth residing in the City of Johannesburg, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Duration and Stipend
- Programme duration: 6 months
- Daily stipend: R271.04
- Programme type: Graduate Programme (No guarantee of permanent employment)
Please note: While this programme provides valuable experience, there is no expectation of permanent absorption or placement after completion.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is ideal for:
- Recent graduates who have completed Matric plus three years of study (M+3)
- Youth holding a Degree or Diploma at NQF Level 6 (360 credits)
- Graduates seeking hands-on experience in environmental, conservation, or public-sector roles
- Johannesburg residents who want to contribute to sustainable urban development
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Matric plus three years of post-school study (M+3)
- A Degree or Diploma (NQF Level 6, 360 credits)
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be a resident of the City of Johannesburg
- People with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit all of the following documents:
- A formal application letter
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of residence within the City of Johannesburg
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Available Graduate Placement Areas and Responsibilities
A total of 60 graduate positions are available across the following departments:
1. Johannesburg Zoo (15 Positions)
Qualification Required: Environmental Management and/or Conservation Management
Key Responsibilities:
- Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
- Feeding animals and monitoring daily routines
- Observing and recording animal behaviour
- Assisting with environmental education initiatives
- Supporting administrative and record-keeping duties
This role is ideal for graduates passionate about wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
2. Environmental Education (8 Positions)
Qualification Required: Environmental Management or Environmental Sciences
Key Responsibilities:
- Educating communities on environmental issues
- Planning and supporting environmental theme day events
- Conducting outreach campaigns in schools and communities
- Implementing environmental education programmes in nature reserves and education centres
This placement suits graduates who enjoy communication, public engagement, and awareness-building.
3. Project Management (2 Positions)
Qualification Required: Project Management, Public Administration, or Office Administration
Key Responsibilities:
- Supporting project planning and coordination
- Communication, reporting, and monitoring activities
- Assisting with evaluation processes
- Providing reception and office administration support
This role provides exposure to municipal project operations and governance systems.
4. Protected Areas and Conservation (18 Positions)
Qualification Required: Environmental Management and/or Conservation Management
Key Responsibilities:
- Alien plant control and ecosystem restoration
- Trail and fence maintenance
- Monitoring koppies, ridges, dams, and riverbanks
- Supporting bird sanctuaries and protected habitats
- Assisting with fire management as a conservation tool
- Supporting law enforcement and environmental compliance through monitoring and reporting
This is a hands-on, field-based role for graduates committed to conservation work.
5. Integrated Catchment Management (5 Positions)
Qualification Required: Environmental Management, Conservation, Water Resource Management, or Hydrology
Key Responsibilities:
- Managing catchment areas, botanical gardens, and nature reserves
- Supporting ecological management services
- Assessing carrying capacity and wildlife management needs
- Managing aquatic and terrestrial alien plant species
- Supporting arboriculture, horticulture, and herbarium services
This placement offers valuable experience in water systems and ecological sustainability.
6. Nursery Management (10 Positions)
Qualification Required: Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Management, or Forestry Management
Key Responsibilities:
- Nursery operations and plant propagation
- Conducting tree census activities
- Assisting with health and safety compliance
- Supporting tree planting programmes across Johannesburg
This role is ideal for graduates interested in forestry, greening initiatives, and urban sustainability.
7. Capital Infrastructure (2 Positions)
Qualification Required: Environmental Management or Environmental Science
Key Responsibilities:
- Scoping and assessing development projects
- Supporting environmental and project management activities
- Assisting with environmental compliance for infrastructure projects
This role provides insight into environmental planning and development processes.
Why Apply for the Municipal Youth Graduate Programme?
By joining this programme, you will:
- Gain practical, workplace experience in your field of study
- Receive a daily stipend while building your career
- Work within a respected municipal entity
- Contribute to environmental protection and sustainability
- Strengthen your CV with public-sector experience
- Network with professionals in environmental and municipal services
How to Apply
All applications and supporting documents must be emailed to:
Enquiries:
smagolo@jhbcityparks.com
Download the Municipal Youth Graduate Programme 2026 PDF for full information on the programme, available positions, and application instructions.
Important Dates
- Closing date for applications: 18 February 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
If you meet the requirements and are ready to grow professionally while making a difference, this programme is an excellent place to start.
