In November 2006, Kumba Resources Limited unbundled, and Kumba’s coal and other assets merged with Eyesizwe Coal to create Exxaro Resources Limited. Exxaro has since grown to become one of the largest black-empowered and diversified mining companies in South Africa. The company operates facilities and offices in Africa, Asia, Europe and Australia. It’s listed on the JSE and, on 31 December 2021 had assets of R75.7 billion and a market capitalisation of R53.4 billion.
About the Exxaro Graduate Internship Programme 2026
Exxaro is offering internship opportunities to unemployed graduates who are eager to gain real-world work experience. This programme gives young professionals the chance to apply what they have learned in their studies while developing practical skills in a supportive working environment. A monthly stipend will be paid to the candidate for the duration of the contract, providing financial support as they grow their confidence, strengthen their abilities, and take important steps toward building a successful career.
Key Programme Details
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Exxaro Graduate Internship Programme 2026 |
| Company | Exxaro Resources Limited |
| Business Unit | Belfast Coal |
| Location | Belfast, Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Contract Duration | 24 Months |
| Closing Date | 12 March 2026 |
| Age Requirement | Under 35 years |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend provided |
| Accommodation | Not provided |
| Preference | Applicants from Emakhazeni Municipality |
Fields Available:
- Supply Chain Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering (X2 positions)
- Human Resource Management (People & Performance)
Internship Fields Available (2026 Intake)
Below is a breakdown of each internship stream offered.
-
Supply Chain Management Internship
Reference: EXX260224-8
This internship exposes graduates to procurement, logistics coordination, supplier management, and operational planning within a mining environment.
You may gain experience in:
- Inventory management systems
- Vendor coordination
- Procurement compliance
- Supply chain optimisation
- Operational reporting
This field is critical in mining because equipment, materials, and logistics must operate efficiently to maintain production.
-
Electrical Engineering Internship
Reference: EXX260224-7
Electrical Engineering interns will work alongside technical teams responsible for maintaining mining equipment and electrical infrastructure.
Possible exposure includes:
- Electrical maintenance planning
- Equipment diagnostics
- Industrial electrical systems
- Safety compliance processes
- Energy efficiency projects
This experience is particularly valuable for graduates pursuing professional engineering registration.
-
Mechanical Engineering Internship
Reference: EXX260224-6
Mechanical Engineering interns participate in maintaining and improving heavy mining machinery.
Learning areas may include:
- Mechanical inspections
- Equipment reliability systems
- Preventative maintenance
- Workshop operations
- Engineering problem-solving
Mining environments provide hands-on mechanical exposure rarely matched in other industries.
-
Mining Engineering Internship (X2 Positions)
Reference: EXX260224-5
Mining Engineering interns gain direct exposure to core mining operations.
This may involve:
- Production planning
- Mine safety systems
- Operational monitoring
- Geological coordination
- Resource extraction processes
For graduates aiming to become Mine Managers or Production Engineers, this is one of the strongest entry pathways available.
-
Human Resource Management Internship (People & Performance)
Reference: EXX260220-1
HR interns support workforce management and employee development within mining operations.
Exposure areas include:
- Recruitment administration
- Performance management systems
- Employee relations
- Training coordination
- HR analytics and reporting
Mining HR roles require specialised knowledge of labour legislation and workforce safety standards.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following academic criteria:
Qualifications
Applicants must hold:
- National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field:
Field-specific qualifications:
- Supply Chain Management or related field
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Human Resource Management or related discipline
General Eligibility Requirements
Candidates must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be younger than 35 years
- Be unemployed graduates
- Successfully complete the selection process
- Pass interviews
- Complete psychometric assessments
- Pass a medical fitness assessment conducted by Exxaro
Additional considerations:
- Candidates living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- Valid driver’s licence is advantageous
- Preference given to Emakhazeni Municipality residents
Internship Conditions and Benefits
Key programme conditions include:
- Contract duration: 24 months
- Monthly stipend paid throughout programme
- Structured training programme
- Performance monitoring and development support
- Exposure to real mining operations
Important note:
- Accommodation is NOT provided by Exxaro.
- Successful completion does not automatically guarantee permanent employment.
However, internship completion significantly improves employability in mining, engineering, logistics, and corporate sectors.
Duties and Responsibilities
Across all disciplines, interns must:
- Perform according to the training programme
- Follow company rules and regulations
- Demonstrate professional conduct
- Commit to continuous learning
- Participate actively in workplace development activities
This programme emphasises professional growth and workplace readiness.
Get Opportunities
Currents South African Vacancies
Apply for Learnerships Programme
Get Apprenticeships Programmes
How to Apply Exxaro 2026 Graduate Internship Programme
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the official Exxaro Careers Portal. Applicants are advised to:
NB. Use the links given below to Apply
Supply Chain Management Interns
Apply Online for the Supply Chain Management Internship
Electrical Engineering Interns
Apply Online for the Electrical Engineering Internsship
Mechanical Engineering Interns
Apply Online for the Mechanical Engineering Internsship
Mining Engineering Interns
Apply Online for the Mining Engineering Internship
Human Resource Management Interns
Apply Online for the Human Resource Management Internship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Exxaro Graduate Internship Programme?
It is a structured internship programme offering graduates hands-on work experience in mining and energy.
Who can apply?
Recent South African graduates with relevant qualifications in engineering, finance, HR, supply chain, environmental management, or related fields.
What is the duration of the internship?
The programme typically runs for 12 to 24 months, depending on placement.
Where are the internship opportunities located?
At various Exxaro operational sites and offices across South Africa.
Is this internship paid?
Yes, Exxaro provides a stipend to all graduate interns.
Do I need work experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required; the programme is designed for recent graduates.
What fields are available?
Engineering, Environmental Management, Finance, Human Resources, Supply Chain, and more.
Is this a permanent job?
No, it is a graduate internship programme, but successful interns may be considered for future employment.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants must hold a relevant NQF Level 6 or 7 qualification.
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted via the official Exxaro Careers Portal.
When is the closing date?
The closing date varies by field; applicants should check the official portal for updates.
Can I apply for more than one field?
Yes, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for each field.
Does the internship offer mentorship?
Yes, interns receive guidance from experienced professionals.
Will I gain practical skills?
Yes, the programme focuses on hands-on work experience and professional development.
Is this programme nationwide?
Yes, internships are available at multiple Exxaro sites across South Africa.
Why should I apply for Exxaro Graduate Internship 2026?
It provides work experience, mentorship, and a pathway to a career in mining and energy.
