Apply for SANPARKS EPWP Environmental Internships 2025 - Find Jobs, Share Jobs, Grow Together

Contributing to environmental conservation and community development while gaining valuable work experience? The South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), is offering unemployed South African youth an opportunity through the Environmental Monitors Programme 2025.

Who is SANParks?

South African National Parks (SANParks) is the custodian of South Africa’s natural heritage, managing 19 national parks across the country. Beyond protecting biodiversity, SANParks promotes environmental education, tourism, and socio-economic development. Through initiatives like the EPWP Environmental Monitors Programme, SANParks empowers young people to gain skills while contributing to conservation and sustainability.

What is the EPWP Environmental Monitors Programme

The Environmental Monitors Programme 2025 provides fixed-term employment to unemployed youth who are passionate about nature conservation. Successful candidates will work within the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in Clarens, Free State, supporting environmental monitoring, education, and community outreach.

The programme runs until 31 March 2026, offering practical experience and personal development aligned with conservation goals.

What you will gain

Daily wage between R208 and R311 (EPWP rates)
On-the-job training in conservation, environmental education, and resource management
Experience in ecological monitoring, awareness campaigns, and community engagement
Development of administrative, communication, and teamwork skills
A platform for future opportunities in the environmental and tourism sectors

Candidate Role During the Programme

Environmental Monitors will:

Conduct ecological monitoring and support natural resource management
Deliver environmental education programmes and awareness campaigns
Assist with community outreach events and conservation initiatives
Maintain facilities at Wilgehof Environmental Education Centre (kitchen, dining, ablution, outdoor areas)
Support stock control of consumables and cleaning supplies
Ensure compliance with health, hygiene, and safety standards
Handle administrative duties such as logbooks, timesheets, and reports

Programmes/Jobs Offered

Environmental Monitors (9 positions available) – Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Are you Eligible? Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 qualification (Standard 10)
Certificate or Diploma in Natural Environment or related field (advantageous)
Valid Code B driver’s licence (advantageous)
Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Outlook)
Good physical fitness for fieldwork
Clear criminal record with valid SAPS Clearance Certificate
Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and after-hours
Proof of residence (preference for local candidates)
Own transport and accommodation (no staff housing provided)

Ideal Candidate Exhibits

Passion for environmental conservation
Strong communication and presentation skills
Reliability and accountability in daily tasks
Teamwork and interpersonal skills
Physical fitness and adaptability for outdoor duties
Organisational skills for community programmes and events
Basic computer and administrative skills

Core Skill Values

Conservation passion and commitment
Integrity and accountability
Community service orientation
Team collaboration and adaptability

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

A detailed CV with cover letter
Certified copies of ID and qualifications (not older than 3 months)

Applications can be submitted via:

Postal Address
South African National Parks
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Private Bag X3
Clarens, 9707

Email Applications

Socio Economic: Maduvhahafani.Matodzi@sanparks.org
Technical Services: fanie.mokoena@sanparks.org
Conservation: Nomcebo.Shabalala@sanparks.org

Location

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Clarens, Free State, South Africa

Application Commences

Applications are currently open for 2025.

Stipend/Remuneration

Daily wage between R208 – R311 (EPWP rates).

Closing Date

19 September 2025

Note

Application Deadline: 19 September 2025
Programme Duration: Until 31 March 2026
Stipend: R208 – R311 per day (EPWP rates)
Restrictions: Own accommodation and transport required; preference to local candidates

Recommendations

Apply early to secure one of the nine available positions
Ensure your SAPS clearance and documents are valid and certified
Highlight conservation or community involvement in your CV
Be prepared for fitness assessments and flexible working hours

Tips for Applying

Showcase your passion for conservation and teamwork in your application
Emphasise any volunteer or educational experience in environmental programmes
Double-check your documents for accuracy before submission
Keep copies of your application for reference