South Africa needs fresh engineering talent now, and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is offering a Mechanical/Mechatronics Technologist Internship that starts this year. This is a chance to work on cutting‑edge manufacturing projects while you finish your degree.
What the internship is
The CSIR is the country’s leading science and technology research institute. The Photonics Centre’s Laser Enabled Manufacturing (LEM) group is looking for an intern to join its Future Production: Manufacturing Cluster at the CSIR Scientia campus in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will support senior scientists and engineers in research, development and innovation work.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must have one of the following qualifications:
- BSc, BEng or BTech in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Metallurgical Engineering or a related field
- Or an equivalent degree recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
Final‑year students may apply if they will graduate before the internship begins. You also need at least 12 months of engineering experience, which can include university lab work or industry placement.
International qualifications must be assessed by SAQA.
What you will gain
- Hands‑on experience with additive manufacturing, laser‑enabled processes and prototype development
- Skills in computational modelling, finite‑element analysis and multibody dynamics
- Exposure to testing, automation, sensors and systems integration
- Opportunities to present findings and write technical reports
- Learning and development programmes alongside senior scientists and engineers
- Access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities
Key responsibilities
You will support a range of engineering and research activities, including:
- Conducting literature reviews and summarising results
- Running experiments and collecting data with high‑speed cameras and sensors
- Designing, building and testing prototype systems
- Performing finite‑element and multibody dynamic analyses
- Helping with explosive science, vehicle mobility and soldier‑safety projects
- Preparing technical reports, presentations and research papers
- Participating in research symposiums and health‑and‑safety briefings
- Maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on protection technology development
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Current CV
- Certified copy of your most recent academic results or transcript
- Certified copies of your degree certificates
- If you are still studying, a proof of registration or a confirmation letter from your university
- SAQA evaluation report for any overseas qualifications
- Visit the CSIR online recruitment portal: Apply for the Mechanical/Mechatronics Technologist Internship 2026
- Search using these details:
- Position: Internship: Mechanical/Mechatronics Technologist
- Job ID: 315184
- Location: CSIR Scientia, Pretoria
- Upload all documents, complete the online questionnaire and submit before the deadline.
- For any questions, contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre at 012 841 4774 or email Recruitmentinfo@csir.co.za.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to highlight any lab work, project work or internships that relate to manufacturing, modelling or testing.
- Provide clear, certified copies of all certificates – blurry scans are often rejected.
- In your cover letter (if the portal allows), mention specific CSIR projects you find exciting, such as laser‑enabled manufacturing or additive‑manufacturing research.
- Proofread every field before submitting; simple spelling errors can hurt first impressions.
- Apply early. The portal can become slow as the deadline approaches.
Next steps
Make sure your application is complete and submitted by 27 September 2026. The CSIR will only contact shortlisted candidates, so keep an eye on your email and phone. Even if you are not selected, the process gives you a concrete example of a strong application for future opportunities.
