Petroleum Agency SA: Internship Programme 2026/2027

ByRainbow Time

The Petroleum Agency SA invites unemployed graduates from South Africa to take part in its two-year internship programme, which will begin in February 2026. This initiative, supported by MQA funding, is tailored to offer hands-on experience and professional advancement in critical sectors such as petroleum geoscience, environmental compliance, and finance.

Participants will receive training, gain insights into industry practices, and enhance their skills to prepare for successful careers in the energy field. Interested applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and submit their applications by the closing date of 26 September 2025.

Position: Internship Programme 2026/2027
Duration: 2 years
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date for Applications: 26 September 2025 at 16h30

Overview

The Petroleum Agency SA, a subsidiary of CEF SOC Limited, proudly presents an exciting internship opportunity funded by the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA). This two-year programme, commencing in February 2026, aims to provide valuable experience to three (3) graduates. The agency operates under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), focusing on promoting and regulating the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas resources within the Republic of South Africa, both onshore and offshore.

Eligibility Criteria
  • Applicants must be unemployed and hold South African citizenship.
  • Candidates should have achieved a relevant Higher Education and Training (HET) qualification at a recognized institution.
  • Prior participation in an MQA-funded or company-funded internship programme is not permitted.
  • No previous work experience is required, offering a fresh start for new graduates.
Internship Details

This programme spans two years and offers a structured environment for skill development. Interns will contribute to the achievement of departmental duties while acquiring essential knowledge and skills in their chosen disciplines. The opportunity includes attendance at various relevant discipline-specific training courses and conferences. Basic computer training in software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project will be provided, tailored to the current competency levels of each intern. Additionally, interns will have the chance to work independently, allowing self-assessment of progress and development.

Available Internship Positions
Internship (x1): Petroleum Geoscience
  • Responsibilities: Gain a solid foundation in Geology and Geophysics applicable to both onshore and offshore oil and gas industries. Develop the necessary tools, skills, and knowledge to qualify for employment as a Geoscientist. This includes expertise in seismic data interpretation, well interpretation and correlation, basin and petroleum systems modeling, resource evaluation, prospect generation, GIS, and an understanding of South African Geology.
  • Minimum Qualification: B.Sc. Honours in Geosciences (4 years).
Internship (x1): Environmental Compliance
  • Responsibilities: Acquire essential skills and knowledge required for employment as an environmental scientist. Tasks include processing authorization applications, conducting environmental compliance monitoring, and performing audits. Exposure to national and international environmental legislation relevant to the upstream petroleum sector will be provided. Engage directly with diverse stakeholders, including environmental assessment practitioners and officials from various regulatory bodies, to learn about environmental and operational matters.
  • Minimum Qualification: B.Sc. Honours in Environmental Sciences or Environmental Management/Natural Sciences (4 years).
Internship (x1): Finance
  • Responsibilities: Obtain exposure and experience through rotation and involvement in financial processes such as accounts receivable, petty cash, cash book management, accounts payable, financial statement preparation, financial management, budgeting and forecasting, asset management, and taxation (VAT and Income Tax).
  • Minimum Qualification: National Diploma in Accounting (3 years).
Application Requirements

Candidates must have completed their relevant qualifications and provide the following certified documents:

  • Academic Record or Statement of Results
  • Degree Certificate or Letter of Completion
  • Matric Certificate
  • RSA Identity Document

Applications will not be considered if any of the above documents are not submitted.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are required to forward a covering letter, a brief CV, and all requested documents to the email address [email protected]. The subject line of the email must reference the specific internship applying for, e.g., “Internship 26-27: Environmental Compliance.” Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as per national labour legislation.

Important Dates
  • Closing Date for Applications: Friday, 26 September 2025 at 16h30.
  • Programme Start Date: February 2026.
  • Note: Late applications will not be considered. Candidates can expect to be contacted for interviews within four weeks of the closing date. If no communication is received by then, the application should be considered unsuccessful.
Additional Information

This internship offers a unique opportunity to build a career in the petroleum, environmental, or finance sectors while contributing to the agency’s mission. The programme emphasizes practical experience, professional growth, and skill enhancement, making it an ideal stepping stone for recent graduates seeking to enter the workforce.