INTERN: INTERNAL AUDIT: REF NO: 0003/2026 (Twenty-four-month contract)

The Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI), a national government component reporting to the Minister for the Public Service and Administration, is offering a twenty-four-month internal audit internship based in Pretoria. This structured work-based learning opportunity is aimed at unemployed graduates who have completed a qualification in internal audit and who wish to gain practical experience within the public service. The CPSI plays a leading and catalytic role in public service reform and transformation through innovation, and this internship forms part of its commitment to youth skills development by giving graduates a chance to complement their studies with real workplace exposure. Candidates who have previously participated in an internship programme in any government department will unfortunately not be considered.

To be eligible for this internal audit internship, applicants must hold a Senior Certificate or Grade 12 certificate and a recognised National Diploma or Degree at NQF level 6 or 7 in Internal Audit. Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application. While not a requirement, membership of the Siyakhula Student Membership Programme or the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA) will be considered an added advantage. The successful intern will be expected to enter into an employment contract and performance agreement, and will need to complete a financial interest declaration within the first month of appointment and annually thereafter.

The core duties of the intern involve participating in the development of internal audit plans, contributing to the planning and execution of individual audit projects, and assisting with the reporting of audit findings. The intern will also provide support to audit committees and take part in follow-up activities to track the implementation of audit recommendations. This gives the intern exposure to the entire audit lifecycle within a government environment, from risk identification and scoping to reporting and monitoring, while working alongside experienced auditors.

The ideal candidate will bring a solid set of foundational skills, including office management, computer literacy, interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team. Strong interpersonal skills, a sound work ethic, and personal qualities such as honesty, respectfulness and trustworthiness are essential. The role also requires a client-oriented and customer-focused attitude, as well as a clear understanding of the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive employee information. Good verbal and written communication skills are needed, together with the ability to communicate effectively with both internal and external partners.

All shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a practical exercise, integrity checks and personnel suitability checks, which may include verification of criminal records, citizenship or permanent residency, financial records and qualifications. Reference checks will be conducted during the selection process, and applicants should be prepared to provide consent for access to their social media accounts if requested. The CPSI is committed to promoting representivity within its workforce, and equity targets will be taken into account during the selection process. The department regrets that, due to budget constraints, it cannot cover any travel, subsistence, relocation or resettlement costs for shortlisted or successful candidates. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only, and those who have not been contacted within three months after the closing date should accept that their application was unsuccessful. This internship provides a valuable stepping stone for aspiring internal auditors seeking to build a career in the public sector.