Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo invite unemployed youth graduate to apply for EPWP Youth Internship program! 125 positions available for graduates aged 18-35 to impact public health and the environment.
This is an exciting, career-boosting initiative that offers four months of real-world experience with a daily stipend of R247.50, all while contributing to Johannesburg’s environmental sustainability and community development.
For jobless graduates with a NQF 6 certificate (a diploma or a qualification with 360 credits) who wish to obtain work experience in fields including environmental science, horticulture, animal care opportunity. This curriculum puts you at the centre of environmental action around Johannesburg in addition to offering beneficial on-the-job training.
What Is the EPWP Youth Graduate Programme?
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Youth Graduate Work Opportunities are short-term, skills development roles created to combat youth unemployment, especially among those who have completed tertiary education but lack practical experience.
Through this collaboration, JCPZ and DFFE are inviting 125 graduates to join various projects across Johannesburg, ranging from animal care and park maintenance to climate change advocacy, environmental education, and occupational safety.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to:
- South African youth aged 18 to 35
- A minimum of a NQF 6 qualification (a diploma or equivalent 360-credit qualification) is required of graduates.
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- Only candidates who reside in the City of Johannesburg will be considered
To apply, you must prepare:
- A motivated application letter
- Your up-to-date CV
- Certified copies of your qualifications
- Proof of residence confirming your location within Johannesburg
Breakdown of Available Positions by Department
Each role is tied to a specific field of study. Below is a comprehensive list of the positions, required qualifications, and key responsibilities:
1. Animal Attendant (15 positions) – Johannesburg Zoo
Field of Study: Environmental Management or Conservation Management
Role Summary:
- Clean animal enclosures and feed animals
- Monitor and document animal behavior
- Support environmental education initiatives
2. Environmental Educators (16 positions) – Across all City Regions
Field of Study: Environmental Education, Environmental Management or Science
Role Summary:
- Deliver educational programmes at environmental centers
- Conduct outreach campaigns to schools and communities
- Organize awareness events around environmental themes
3. Nature Conservators / Park Rangers (65 positions) – Protected Areas
Fields: Conservation Maintenance, Law Enforcement, Ecotourism, Research
Required Qualification: Environmental Science or Management, Conservation Management
Role Summary:
- Maintain trails, remove invasive species, and monitor fire hazards
- Enforce environmental regulations
- Engage communities on sustainable tourism
- Assist in research and ecological assessments
4. Ecological Services (13 positions)
Roles: Water Monitor, Climate Change Ambassador, Ecologist, Horticulturist
Required Qualifications:
- Environmental Management, Water Resource Management, Hydrology, Horticulture
Responsibilities: - Manage biodiversity in reserves and catchment areas
- Monitor aquatic systems and water quality
- Support botanical garden functions including alien plant control
5. Nursery & Forestry Management (14 positions)
Roles: Forestry Monitor, Occupational Health Officer, Climate Change Ambassador
Required Fields:
- Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Forestry
Duties: - Oversee safety in nursery operations
- Participate in tree census and planting initiatives
- Support propagation and nursery management projects
6. Capital Infrastructure (2 positions)
Role: Project Management Officer
Field: Environmental Management or Environmental Science
Role Summary:
- Support planning and implementation of environmental infrastructure projects
- Assist with project scoping and reporting
How to Apply
To apply, submit your documents via email to:
EPWPYouthProgramme@jhbcityparks.com
Important: Use the correct reference code in your email subject line based on your qualification and the position you’re applying for.
| Position | Required Field | Reference Code |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Attendant, Nature Conservator | Conservation Management | conservationistepwp |
| Climate Change Ambassador, Ecologist | Environmental Science | environmentalistepwp |
| Environmental Educator | Environmental Education | enviroeducationepwp |
| Occupational Health Officer | OHS | safetyepwp |
| Forest Monitor | Forestry | foresterepwp |
| Water Monitor | Hydrology, Ecology | hydrologistepwp |
| Horticulturist | Horticulture | horticulturistepwp |
Deadline for all applications is: 27 June 2025.
Who to Contact for Help
For questions or further information, contact:
Sinah Magolo at 079 898 1761
Or email: smagolo@jhbcityparks.com
Why You Should Apply
If you’re a qualified youth looking to get your foot in the door of South Africa’s growing environmental sector, this programme is your stepping stone. You’ll gain:
- Hands-on experience in your field of study
- A steady stipend while gaining work exposure
- The chance to network with professionals in government and conservation
- A CV boost that may open up permanent opportunities
Whether your interest lies in animal care, environmental policy, climate change activism, water resource management, or urban greening, this programme offers real-world experience in meaningful, community-driven projects.
The JCPZ EPWP Youth Graduate Work Opportunities are more than just short-term jobs—they’re a path toward long-term impact and meaningful employment. With the right passion and qualification, you can start your journey towards becoming a skilled environmental professional while helping improve Johannesburg’s parks, reserves, and natural spaces.
