Every year, thousands of graduates struggle to find their first real workplace opportunity. Degrees are completed. Diplomas are earned.
But experience? That’s where the challenge begins.
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) continues to address this gap by investing in youth development through structured internship programmes. The City of Joburg Internship Programme 2026 within the Transport Department is one such opportunity designed to give graduates practical, hands-on exposure inside one of South Africa’s largest metropolitan municipalities.
For many young professionals, internships like this are not just temporary placements.
They are stepping stones into long-term careers in government, state-owned entities, and even the private sector.
If you are a Johannesburg resident with a qualification in marketing or business-related studies, this opportunity could shape your professional future.
Quick Overview of the Internship
Before diving into details, here’s a clear summary of what the programme offers:
Position: Customer Care Internship
Department: Transport
Branch: Marketing and Communication
Duration: Up to 18 months
Location: 75 Helen Joseph Street, Old Mutual Building, Johannesburg
Monthly Stipend: R10 109.86 (basic, no benefits)
Eligibility: City of Johannesburg residents only
Minimum Qualification: Diploma or NQF Level 6 in Marketing, Business Management or Business Administration
Experience Required: None
Application Method: Online only
Closing Date: Friday, 27 February 2026
This is a structured public-sector internship aimed at developing customer service and communication professionals.
Why This Internship Matters
Many graduates underestimate the power of public-sector experience.
Working inside a municipality like the City of Johannesburg exposes interns to:
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Real service delivery systems
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Public communication processes
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Administrative structures
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Community engagement operations
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Transport service coordination
Customer service in a government environment is different from retail or private companies. It involves handling diverse communities, complex service queries, and public accountability standards.
That experience is extremely valuable.
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Role Purpose: What You Will Actually Do
The main objective of the Customer Care Agent Intern is to deliver efficient, professional, and solution-focused customer service.
This means more than answering calls.
It means:
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Resolving issues at first contact
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Providing accurate information to residents
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Recording and tracking customer interactions
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Supporting communication between transport services and the public
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Assisting with service reporting
Interns are trained to operate within structured municipal systems, ensuring that residents receive clear, helpful, and professional responses.
Minimum Requirements Explained
To apply, you must meet the following criteria:
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Grade 12 (NQF Level 4)
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Diploma or NQF Level 6 qualification in Marketing, Business Management, or Business Administration
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No prior work experience required
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Must be a resident of the City of Johannesburg
This is an entry-level internship. It is designed specifically for graduates who do not yet have formal work experience.
Preference is typically given to candidates who demonstrate:
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Strong communication skills
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Initiative and willingness to learn
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Professional attitude
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Basic computer literacy
Even without work experience, your attitude and readiness matter.
What You Will Learn During the Internship
This internship is not just about performing tasks. It is structured around learning.
1. Customer Information Services
Interns will:
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Provide accurate information about transport services
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Assist residents with programme-related enquiries
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Maintain customer records
You will learn how municipal information systems operate.
2. Query and Complaint Management
Handling complaints is one of the most important skills in customer care.
Interns will:
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Follow standard procedures for resolving complaints
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Escalate complex issues properly
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Ensure professional communication at all times
This builds strong conflict-resolution skills.
3. Stakeholder Engagement
Municipal environments involve multiple stakeholders.
Interns will support communication between:
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Internal departments
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Transport service teams
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External service users
This strengthens coordination and communication skills.
4. Service Reporting
You will assist in compiling:
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Customer service reports
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Interaction summaries
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Operational updates
Reporting accuracy and timeliness are critical skills in both public and private sectors.
Competencies You Will Develop
This internship builds highly transferable skills.
Leading Competencies
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Customer service orientation
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Active listening
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Verbal and written communication
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Computer literacy (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
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Complaint resolution
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Organisational skills
Core Learning Competencies
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Understanding municipal systems
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Records administration
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Public service standards
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Attention to detail
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Initiative and professionalism
These competencies are valuable in industries such as:
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Banking
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Telecommunications
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Retail
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Logistics
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Public administration
What Makes This Internship Valuable
Many graduates struggle because employers ask for “experience.”
This internship provides:
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Recognised public-sector exposure
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Real customer interaction experience
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Structured workplace training
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Professional references
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Networking opportunities
An 18-month structured internship can significantly improve employability.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applications must be submitted online only.
Here’s how to apply properly:
Step 1: Prepare Your CV
Ensure your CV is:
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Updated
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Professionally formatted
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Free from spelling errors
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Focused on communication skills and teamwork
If you have volunteer experience, include it.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Have certified copies of:
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ID
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Qualification certificate
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Academic transcripts
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Proof of Johannesburg residency
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Fill in all required fields carefully.
Double-check:
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Contact number
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Email address
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Qualification details
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Step 4: Submit Before Deadline
Closing Date: Friday, 27 February 2026
Late submissions are not accepted.
Tips to Stand Out as an Applicant
Competition can be high. Here’s how to improve your chances:
Strengthen Your CV
Highlight:
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Communication roles
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Leadership positions
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Community involvement
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Group projects
Demonstrate Customer Orientation
Mention examples where you:
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Helped someone solve a problem
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Coordinated group activities
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Managed responsibilities
Prepare for Possible Interviews
Learn about:
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Johannesburg transport systems
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Public service delivery
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Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit services
Understanding the department shows initiative.
Improve Digital Skills
Practice:
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Microsoft Word
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Excel spreadsheets
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Basic report writing
These skills are essential in administrative roles.
Career Growth After Completing the Internship
This internship can open doors to multiple career paths.
Public Sector Pathways
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Customer Relations Officer
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Administrative Officer
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Community Liaison Officer
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Transport Operations Support
Private Sector Opportunities
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Contact Centre Consultant
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Client Services Coordinator
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Marketing Assistant
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Operations Administrator
Further Education Options
Many interns pursue:
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Advanced diplomas in Public Administration
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Certificates in Customer Relationship Management
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Project Management courses
The experience gained makes further studies more practical and valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Residents of the City of Johannesburg with relevant qualifications.
Is work experience required?
No. This is designed for graduates without experience.
How long is the programme?
Up to 18 months.
Is there a salary?
Interns receive a stipend of R10 109.86 per month.
Is permanent employment guaranteed?
No, but experience gained significantly improves job prospects.
Can applicants outside Johannesburg apply?
No. Only City of Johannesburg residents qualify.
Final Thoughts: Is This Internship Worth Applying For?
If you are a graduate looking for structured workplace exposure, this internship is a valuable opportunity.
It offers:
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Real public-sector experience
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Professional growth
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Skill development
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Monthly financial support
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Career foundation building
Internships are not permanent jobs.
But they are powerful stepping stones.
For many young professionals, one structured internship becomes the beginning of a long-term career.
If you meet the requirements and are serious about building a future in customer service, administration, or transport operations, apply before 27 February 2026.
Opportunities like this help transform qualifications into careers.
Rajani Kant
Content Writer | South Africa & Namibia
Rajani Kant is an experienced content writer with over 7 years of expertise
in covering News of South Africa, Namibia, and other African countries.
He focuses on Entertainment news government vacancies news,
grants, scholarships, and public service updates, strictly based on
official and verified government sources.
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