South Africa needs more skilled people in aviation right now, and the ATNS Graduate in Training Programme 2026 offers a direct route from university to a paid, 24‑month internship.
What is the ATNS Graduate in Training Programme 2026?
Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) runs a two‑year Graduate in Training Programme. It gives fresh graduates real workplace exposure, on‑the‑job training, coaching and mentorship at ATNS’s head office in Bruma and, where needed, at the Aviation Training Academy in Johannesburg.
All successful candidates receive a market‑related monthly salary. The internship is based in Bedfordview and Bruma, Johannesburg, Gauteng.
Who can apply?
- South African citizens only.
- Hold a relevant degree or diploma (see the table below).
- Have no more than one year of full‑time work experience in the field since graduating.
- Are computer literate.
- Can commit to the full 24‑month programme.
- Can submit an online application before 04 August 2026.
What you will gain
- A 24‑month contract with a paid salary.
- Hands‑on training in aviation operations.
- Technical and professional development.
- Coaching and mentorship from experienced staff.
- Exposure to the aviation and aerospace industry.
- The possibility of a permanent role after the programme (subject to performance and business needs).
Available graduate pathways
| Programme | Reference number | Relevant qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Safety and Regulatory Oversight | atns_000939 | Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science or related |
| Information Technology | atns_000938 | Computer Science, IT, Data Science, Information Architecture, IT Governance or related |
| Governance, Risk and Compliance: Quality Management | atns_000937 | Business Management or Total Quality Management |
| Governance, Risk and Compliance: Risk and Compliance | atns_000936 | LLB degree |
| Governance, Risk and Compliance: Ethics | atns_000935 | LLB degree |
| Air Traffic Management | atns_000933 | GIS, Geospatial Studies, Land Surveying or related |
Aviation Safety and Regulatory Oversight (atns_000939)
Suitable for graduates in Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science or a related field. The role may involve aviation safety, regulatory oversight, data analysis and technical administration.
Information Technology (atns_000938)
Open to those with qualifications in Computer Science, IT, Data Science, Information Architecture, IT Governance, Strategic Management of Technology or similar. You will work with ATNS technology systems, digital services and data support.
Quality Management (atns_000937)
Prefer candidates with a Business Management degree or an advanced diploma in Total Quality Management. Expect tasks in quality systems, process improvement and performance monitoring.
Risk and Compliance (atns_000936)
Requires an LLB degree. The graduate will be exposed to risk management, regulatory compliance, policy implementation and legal research.
Ethics (atns_000935)
Also requires an LLB degree. You will work on organisational ethics, policy support, governance and ethical‑risk management.
Air Traffic Management (atns_000933)
For graduates in GIS, Geospatial Studies, Land Surveying or related subjects. The placement covers spatial information, aviation mapping, surveying and air‑traffic planning.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the official ATNS careers portal.
- Search for “Graduate in Training Programme 2026” and note the correct reference number.
- Register or log in to the portal.
- Complete all required fields in the online form.
- Upload an up‑to‑date CV that clearly shows your qualification, graduation date and any work experience.
- Attach copies of your ID, academic records and any other requested documents.
- Review the information you entered.
- Submit the application before 04 August 2026.
Click here to apply for ATNS Graduate in Training Programme 2026
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that you are a South African citizen and that your qualification matches the chosen programme.
- Keep work experience under one year; excess experience may disqualify you.
- Make sure your CV highlights the graduation date and any relevant projects or internships.
- Proofread your application for spelling or missing information.
- If you want to apply for more than one pathway, submit a separate application for each reference number.
- Apply early – waiting until the deadline can increase the risk of technical issues.
Important dates
Application closing date: 04 August 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three weeks after the closing date. If you hear nothing by then, assume you were not selected.
About Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)
ATNS provides air‑traffic management, navigation and related aviation services across South Africa. Its Graduate in Training Programme is designed to build technical and professional skills while giving young South Africans real experience in the country’s aviation sector.
