Ready to kickstart a legal career while earning a living stipend? The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) is now accepting applications for an Experiential Learner in Legal & Corporate Affairs. This 24‑month fixed‑term contract offers a monthly stipend of R13,000–R16,000 and gives you hands‑on experience in a public‑sector research setting. Moses Kotane Research Institute is looking for talented, South‑African‑qualified candidates who want to make a real impact in Durban.
What’s the Opportunity?
The MKRI’s Corporate Services Unit needs a dedicated legal and corporate affairs learner to support the manager and help the institute meet its research and innovation mandate. You’ll work on contracts, policies and compliance tasks for a 24‑month fixed‑term role, based in the Durban office.
Key Post Details
- Position: Experiential Learner: Legal & Corporate Affairs
- Reference number: EL/LEGAL-02/2026
- Business unit: Corporate Services Unit
- Number of posts: 1
- Location: Durban, MKRI Office
- Stipend: R13,000 – R16,000 per month
- Contract length: 24 months, fixed term
Who Should Apply?
If you’re a South‑African lawyer who has finished your LLB (NQF 8), is admitted as a legal practitioner to the High Court, completed practical legal training or a pupillage, holds a 2026 Letter of Good Standing from the Legal Practice Council, and has a valid driver’s licence, you’re a fit for this role. Many applicants struggle with proving their practice licence status, so keep your documents handy.
Additional advantages include:
- LLM (NQF 9)
- Two years of experience in commercial, corporate or labour law (including CCMA work)
- Contract drafting and management experience
- Specialisation in intellectual property law
What You’ll Gain
During the two‑year stint you’ll:
- Draft and review legal contracts and policies
- Support HR, legal and compliance administration
- Work independently while learning from senior managers
- Build a portfolio of real‑world legal documents
- Receive a competitive stipend and work in a dynamic research environment
Essential Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
The successful learner will bring:
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Ability to work independently
- Experience in drafting contracts and legal opinions
- Familiarity with policy drafting and review
Key Responsibilities
- Provide legal administration support and coordinate contracts
- Assist with HR, legal and compliance administration
- Draft, vet, review and manage contracts
- Draft and review policies
- Deliver legal secretariat services
- Perform other duties within the Corporate Services Unit as needed
Disqualifiers
Anyone with pending criminal or disciplinary cases, or non‑South‑African citizenship will be immediately disqualified.
How to Apply
Send an email to recruitment@moseskotane.com with the subject line “Experiential Learner: Legal & Corporate Affairs – EL/LEGAL-02/2026”. Include the following in your email or attach them as separate PDF files:
- Detailed CV
- Certified copy of ID (not older than 6 months)
- Certified copy of driver’s licence
- Certified copies of relevant qualifications (no older than 6 months)
Questions? Email the HR administrator at recruitment@moseskotane.com. Applications are accepted until 20 March 2026 – after that, no further submissions will be accepted. If you don’t hear from MKRI within six weeks post‑closing, you can assume your application was unsuccessful.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Double‑check that your licence and practice letter are current and clearly readable.
- Showcase any contract‑writing or policy‑drafting projects in your CV.
- Write a short cover letter explaining why you want to work at MKRI and how the role fits your career goals.
- Keep your email subject line clear – recruiters often sort by reference number.
- Apply early; many candidates wait until the last day and then miss the window.
Take the Next Step
Ready to step into a role that blends legal practice with public‑sector research? Submit your application by 20 March 2026 and start a 24‑month journey that will sharpen your legal skills and broaden your professional network. Good luck!
