Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCPZ), in strategic partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), is empowering young South African graduates through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). This dynamic collaboration is not only a testament to the city’s commitment to skills development and employment creation but also a timely intervention addressing youth unemployment across the country.
Bridging the Gap Between Learning and Employment
South Africa continues to battle a significant youth unemployment crisis. Many graduates face the harsh reality of being unemployed despite holding qualifications. To tackle this challenge, JCPZ and DFFE are offering a lifeline to unemployed graduates through structured, on-the-job work experience under the EPWP initiative. These work opportunities are more than just short-term employment—they serve as a stepping stone for youth to enter the environmental, conservation, and parks management sectors with practical experience.
The programme provides fixed-term contracts for young graduates, offering them a platform to apply their academic knowledge, develop professional skills, and gain industry exposure. With guidance from experienced mentors, participants gain insight into areas such as environmental education, ecological infrastructure, biodiversity conservation, horticulture, and park operations.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The EPWP Youth Graduate Work Opportunities are specifically designed for unemployed South African graduates between the ages of 18 and 35. M + 3 (Matric plus 3 years of study) (Qualification with 360 credits or Diploma NQF 6).
Applicants must have completed a relevant qualification in fields such as:
- Environmental Science
- Nature Conservation
- Horticulture
- Botany
- Zoology
- Public Administration
- Parks and Recreation Management
- or any related field
Only youth residing in the City of Johannesburg will be considered
Candidates must be passionate about the environment and be willing to work outdoors, engage with communities, and support city initiatives that promote green living and environmental stewardship.
KEY BENEFITS FOR PARTICIPANTS:
- Workplace Exposure: Participants work alongside seasoned professionals in real-world environmental projects across Johannesburg.
- Daily Stipend (R247.50 per day): While this is not a salaried job, participants receive a monthly stipend to cover basic living costs.
- Skills Development: Practical training, workshops, and project-based assignments equip graduates with transferable skills.
- Professional Networking: Participants become part of a growing network of environmental professionals and city officials.
- Community Impact: Youths contribute to meaningful projects that enhance urban green spaces and biodiversity.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants should prepare:
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of their ID and qualifications
- A motivational letter
- Proof of residence
Email address for applications: EPWPYouthProgramme@jhbcityparks.com Please only apply for the position you qualify for and ensure that you put the reference as the subject.
- Animal Attendant/Nature Conservator/Park Ranger/Water Monitor/Climate Change Ambassador/Ecologist (only persons with Conservation Management Qualification) Ref: conservationistepwp
- Climate Change Ambassador/ Project Management Officer/ Water Monitor/Ecologist/ (only persons with Environmental Management/Environmental Science Qualification) Ref: environmentalistepwp
- Environmental Educator (only persons with Environmental Education Qualification) Ref: enviroeducationepwp
- Occupational Health Officer (Only persons with Occupational Health and Safety Qualification) Ref: safetyepwp
- Forest Monitor (Only persons with Forest Management Qualification) Ref: foresterepwp
- Ecologist/Water Monitor (only persons with Ecology, Hydrology/Water Services Qualification) Ref: hydrologistepwp
- Horticulturist (only persons with Horticulture Qualification) Ref: horticulturistepwp
DOWNLOAD THE JOHANNESBURG CITY PARKS & ZOO EPWP YOUTH GRADUATE INTERNSHIPS ADVERT HERE
The EPWP Youth Graduate Work Opportunities at Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo, in partnership with DFFE, present a beacon of hope for young South Africans eager to kickstart their careers in the environmental sector. It’s a hands-on, growth-oriented initiative that not only builds future leaders in green careers but also strengthens community resilience through active environmental stewardship.
If you’re a young graduate looking for purpose-driven work experience—this is your chance to grow, learn, and make a lasting impact.
Enquiries (only for enquiries): Sinah Magolo on 079 8981 761 or email to smagolo@jhbcityparks.com
CLOSING DATE: 27 JUNE 2025
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE