City of Johannesburg Internship Opportunities 2026 – Arts, Culture and Heritage
If you live in Johannesburg and are studying a subject that links to art, history, museums or public culture, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) is looking for students like you to join their Community Development Department. These internships give you real‑world experience working with heritage sites, museums, public art projects and information services. You can work for up to 18 months and earn a small stipend while learning skills that are useful for any future job or university degree.
The internship programme is part of the City’s effort to give students hands‑on learning that helps them finish school or build a career. The positions are only open to people who already live in Johannesburg, so you won’t have to move for the job.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form – no paper copies.
- Attach certified copies of your ID, any certificates you earned, and a recent CV.
- Use Google Chrome for the best experience.
- Finish and send your application before midnight on Tuesday, 10 February 2026.
You can’t submit late, by email or in person – only the online form counts. If you do not hear from the City within six weeks of the deadline, your application will be considered unsuccessful.
What the Internship Looks Like
The programme focuses on four key areas: heritage management, museum work, arts and culture projects, and information services. Below are the specific roles that are open right now.
1. Immovable Heritage Intern (2 spots)
Where: Community Development Office, Newtown.
What you’ll do:
- Help people decide on street and place names.
- Keep the online register of historic sites up to date.
- Support the care of heritage buildings and public art.
- Record details about important structures and artworks.
- Do admin work for the Immovable Heritage Unit.
What you’ll learn:
- Basics of protecting old buildings and landmarks.
- How city councils decide on street names.
- How a public art portfolio is kept.
Requirements:
- Finished Grade 12 or a National Diploma in Heritage Studies, Fine Art, Public Administration or a related field.
- No previous work experience needed.
- Must live in Johannesburg.
Apply here: Apply for the Immovable Heritage internship (https://share.hsforms.com/14q3LENoiTCavBQAL-LylPw469tl)
2. Museums and Galleries Intern (6 spots)
Where: Various museums and galleries around the city.
What you’ll do:
- Sort and clean museum collections.
- Help put on exhibitions and run learning programmes.
- Look into the history of items in the collection.
- Show visitors around and explain displays.
What you’ll learn:
- How to manage a collection.
- The basics of conservation.
- The role of a curator.
- How museum loans and exhibitions work.
Requirements:
- Finished Grade 12 or a Diploma/degree in Conservation, Heritage Studies, Curatorial Studies, Fine Art or a related field.
- No prior experience needed.
- Must live in Johannesburg.
Apply here: Apply for the Museums and Galleries internship (https://share.hsforms.com/1JuzpfzIdRGW4d9PdscDE3A469tl)
3. Arts and Culture Intern (4 spots)
Where: Community Development Office, Newtown.
What you’ll do:
- Plan and run cultural programmes and events.
- Assist with major arts projects.
- Help manage budgets and report on spending.
- Support local creative businesses and market programmes.
What you’ll learn:
- How arts policy is made.
- Strategic planning for community projects.
- How the creative industries grow.
- Basics of event and project management.
Requirements:
- Finished Grade 12 or a Diploma/degree in Policy Studies, Public Administration, Development Studies, Arts Administration or a related field.
- No prior experience needed.
- Must live in Johannesburg.
Apply here: Apply for the Arts and Culture internship (https://share.hsforms.com/1lvA6iqMkT6ScPruvHO9LAg469tl)
4. Information Services Intern (2 spots)
Where: Museum Africa, 121 Lillian Ngoyi Street, Newtown.
What you’ll do:
- Scan and digitise museum collections.
- Take photos of artifacts.
- Edit images and record details for the digital archive.
- Help keep the online collection organized.
What you’ll learn:
- Working with Adobe Photoshop and Bridge.
- Digital editing and post‑production techniques.
- Managing data and information in a museum setting.
Requirements:
- Finished Grade 12 or a Diploma/degree in Graphic Design, Photography or a related field.
- No prior experience needed.
- Must live in Johannesburg.
Apply here: Apply for the Information Services internship (https://share.hsforms.com/1FO2x1nwkRNG4zmOE-E9jxQ469tl)
Why Join These Internships?
You’ll be part of South Africa’s largest city, learning how heritage, museums and arts shape community life. These roles are great if you want a clear path into culture, history, or public service. You’ll work with professionals who love what they do and can guide you in your next career steps. Plus, the stipend helps keep your budget balanced while you gain valuable experience.
Contact for More Information
If you have questions, call Viwe Nkohla at (011) 407 6553.
Final Thoughts
Remember, only people who live in Johannesburg can apply. If you meet the conditions, fill in the online form before the deadline and attach the required documents. Once you’re in, you’ll be part of projects that bring art, history and culture into everyday life for residents of Johannesburg. It’s a chance to learn, work, and make a difference in the city you call home.
Want to see more opportunities or learn about the City of Johannesburg? Visit the main page.