South Africa needs fresh talent in the energy sector, and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is offering paid internships that start this year – apply before 16 November 2026 to secure a place.
What is the NERSA Internship Programme?
ERSA is opening a 24‑month internship programme in Pretoria for unemployed graduates. The role is a full‑time contract that gives you hands‑on experience in a public‑sector regulator.
Who can apply?
- South African citizens who are currently unemployed.
- Completed Grade 12 and hold a recognised tertiary qualification from a South African university.
- Relevant qualification at NQF Level 6, 7, 8 or 9 (see below).
Qualification levels include:
- National Diploma – NQF 6
- Bachelor’s Degree / BTech / Advanced Diploma – NQF 7
- Postgraduate Diploma / Honours – NQF 8
- Master’s Degree – NQF 9
What you will gain
- Real‑world exposure to energy regulation and public‑sector processes.
- Professional skills in research, analysis, communication and project management.
- Mentoring from senior officials in fields such as law, finance, ICT and more.
- A 24‑month contract that can be a springboard to a permanent career.
Available internship divisions
Legal Advisory Services – Reference: LAS2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Law.
Information Communication and Technology – Reference: ICT2026
- Information Technology
- Information Management
Information Resource Management – Reference: IRM2026
- Information Technology
- Information Management
Communication and Stakeholder Management – Reference: CSM2026
- Communication
- Public Relations
- Marketing
- Journalism
Human Resources Management – Reference: HRM2026
- Human Resources Management
Internal Audit Unit – Reference: IAU2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field.
Regulatory Analysis and Research – Reference: RAR2026
- Economics
- Finance
- Statistics
Finance Management and Governance – Reference: FMG2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance or Economics.
Supply Chain Management, Facilities / Project – Reference: SCM2026
- Supply Chain Management
- Purchasing Management
- Logistics Management
Office of the CEO – Reference: CEO2026
- Business Administration
- Office Management
Security Management – Reference: SM2026
- Security Management
- Security Risk Management
- Safety and Security Management
International Relations – Reference: IR2026
- Diplomacy Studies
- International Relations
- Political Studies
Strategic Planning and Monitoring – Reference: SPM2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Business Management, Public Policy or a related field.
Electricity Pricing and Tariffs – Reference: EPT2026
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
Electricity Licensing, Compliance and Dispute Resolution – Reference: ELC2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Law, Energy Law or a related discipline.
Gas Licensing, Compliance and Dispute Resolution – Reference: GLC2026
Relevant qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Law, Energy Law or a related discipline.
Gas Competition and Market Analysis – Reference: GCM2026
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
Gas Pricing and Tariffs – Reference: GPT2026
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
Petroleum Pipelines Tariffs – Reference: PPT2026
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
Petroleum Licensing, Compliance and Dispute Resolution – Reference: PLC2026
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
Documents you must submit
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your qualification
- Full academic record (transcripts)
How to apply – step by step
- Prepare the documents listed above.
- Write a clear email and attach the documents as PDF.
- Use the exact reference number and the division name in the email subject line (e.g., “LAS2026 – Legal Advisory Services”).
- Send the email to applications@nersa.org.za. You can also click here to apply for NERSA Internships 2026 / 2027.
- If you prefer post, mail a hard copy to:
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa
Human Resources Division
PO Box 40343
Arcadia, Pretoria
0007
Attn: Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply only for divisions that match your qualification.
- Double‑check the reference number and department in the subject line.
- Tailor your CV to highlight relevant coursework and any project work.
- Include a brief cover note explaining why you are interested in energy regulation.
- Submit a separate email for each internship you are interested in.
- Make sure all copies are certified and legible.
- Send your application well before the 16 November deadline.
Final thoughts
This internship can launch a career in South Africa’s energy sector. Gather your documents, follow the steps carefully, and submit before 16 November 2026. Good luck!
