East London Industrial Development Zone – 2026 Internship Opportunities

East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) is launching a 24‑month internship program for 2026.
If you are a South African graduate, 18 to 35 years old, and haven’t worked in a real job yet, this internship could give you the first real chance to learn how a big industrial company runs. The program is free for you and pays a monthly stipend while you work and study at the same time.

Quick facts

What you’ll do

The internship covers several important areas that help South Africa grow in science, engineering, and technology. You’ll learn hands‑on skills in the real workplace and could end up in a permanent role after the program. Here’s a quick look at the job fields and how many spots are open for each.

Safety Management

• Qualification: M+3 in Safety Management
• Positions: 1

Electrical Engineering (Maintenance & Facilities)

• Qualification: M+3 in Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
• Positions: 1

Records Management (Archives)

• Qualification: M+3 in Records Management / Archives
• Positions: 3

Records Management (Administration)

• Qualification: M+3 in Office Management & Technology / Office Administration
• Positions: 1

Project Portfolio Management

• Qualification: M+3 in IT, Software Development, Civil or Mechanical Engineering
• Positions: 1

Project Industrial Development

• Qualification: M+3 in Building or Civil Engineering
• Positions: 1

Supply Chain Management

• Qualification: M+3 in Supply Chain Management or Logistics
• Positions: 2

Science & Technology Park – Laboratory

• Qualification: M+3 in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, or Food Technology
• Positions: 3

Science & Technology Park – Design Centre

• Qualification: M+3 in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Electrical Engineering
• Positions: 1

Science & Technology Park – Research

• Qualification: M+3 in Agricultural Economics or Economics
• Positions: 1

Knowledge Management

• Qualification: M+3 in Business Information Systems, Data Science, Informatics or Knowledge Management
• Positions: 1

Who can apply?

You must meet every item below. If you miss just one, you will be automatically out.

• You have finished a relevant degree or diploma and are not still studying.
• You are a South African citizen.
• Your age is between 18 and 35.
• You have no paid job in your field right now.
• You have never done an internship before.
• You are not enrolled full‑time in school.
• Your grades are good – top performers get a priority.

Extra preferences

• If you live in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, you’ll get a higher chance to be selected.
• Persons with disabilities are especially welcomed.

How to send in your application

Follow these steps carefully so your application is not lost.

1. Write an application letter
   State which field you want to work in. Make the letter clear and to the point.

2. Add your latest CV
   Show your education and any small projects or volunteer work that matches the field.

3. Send copies of your degree certificates
   They must be certified copies (officially checked).

4. Send your academic record
   This must also be certified.

All documents should go to internships@elidz.co.za. Use a subject line like this:

ELIDZ Internship 2026 – [Your Desired Field]

The deadline is 4 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Why this internship matters

• You can stay in the same role for up to two years and keep learning while you earn a salary.
• You’ll work in places that are key to South Africa’s industrial and tech future.
• You’ll build skills that match the country’s biggest job needs.
• After the program, you will be ready for a permanent job in engineering, science, or the public‑private sector.

If you fit the requirements, act fast. Double‑check every document and send everything on time. This is a great way to start a career and help shape South Africa’s industrial landscape.