Mafube Coal is inviting South African unemployed graduates to apply for its External Internship Programme 2026, a structured two-year opportunity designed to help young professionals gain real workplace experience in the mining and resources sector. This programme is aimed at graduates who are ready to grow, learn, and build meaningful careers while contributing to one of South Africa’s key industries.
The internship is based in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, and offers long-term exposure to practical training, mentorship, and professional development within a high-performance mining environment.
About Mafube Coal
Mafube Coal is an opencast coal mining operation located approximately 37 kilometres east of Middelburg in the Mpumalanga Province. The mine is a 50/50 joint venture between Thungela and Exxaro Resources, producing thermal coal mainly for export markets.
The company is recognised for its strong performance culture and deep commitment to safety, continuous learning, and people development. Mafube Coal plays an important role in South Africa’s mining and energy value chain while actively investing in skills development and future talent.
About the External Internship Programme
The Mafube Coal External Internship Programme runs over a period of two years and provides graduates with structured, hands-on workplace training. Interns will be supported through mentorship and coaching by experienced professionals, allowing them to develop practical skills aligned with their chosen fields.
This programme is well suited to graduates who are motivated, eager to learn, and interested in building long-term careers in mining-related disciplines such as human resources, environmental management, safety, communications, or media studies.
Internship Fields and Reference Numbers
Graduates may apply in the following disciplines, provided they meet the relevant qualification requirements:
Human Resource Management
Qualification: National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, BTech, or BCom in Human Resource Management
Reference Number: HRM2026
Environmental
Qualification: Diploma, BTech, or BSc in Environmental Management or Environmental Sciences
Reference Number: ENV2026
Safety
Qualification: National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or BTech
Reference Number: SAF2026
Communications / Media Studies
Qualification: National Diploma or BA in Communications or Journalism
Reference Number: COM2026
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Minimum Grade 12 plus a relevant qualification related to the internship field applied for
- A valid driver’s licence
- Sound knowledge of safety systems, regulations, and standards
- Willingness to work shifts, standbys, and call-outs when required
- Must be in possession of, or able to obtain, a certificate of fitness
What Mafube Coal Offers
Successful interns will benefit from:
- Strong career and personal development opportunities
- A culture that promotes continuous learning and innovation
- Mentorship and coaching from qualified professionals
- A competitive remuneration package
- A people-focused and inclusive working environment
Commitment to Safety, Inclusion and Diversity
Mafube Coal places safety at the centre of everything it does and operates under some of the most rigorous safety standards in the mining industry. The company continuously invests in systems and technology to ensure employees return home safely every day.
In addition, Mafube Coal is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees to grow and reach their full potential.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email. Interested candidates are required to include the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than three months)
- Certified copies of qualifications (not older than three months)
Email applications must be sent to:
jobs@mafubecoal.com
The reference number for the internship you are applying for must be clearly stated in the email subject line. The closing date for applications is 13 January 2026.
Conclusion
The Mafube Coal External Internship Programme 2026 offers unemployed graduates a valuable opportunity to gain real-world experience within a respected mining operation. With structured training, professional mentorship, and exposure to critical areas of the industry, this programme provides a solid foundation for graduates who are serious about building sustainable and rewarding careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mafube Coal Internship Programme?
The internship runs for a period of two years and offers structured on-the-job training throughout.
Where is the internship based?
The internship is based in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, at the Mafube Coal operation.
Who can apply for this internship?
South African unemployed graduates who meet the qualification and minimum requirements for the relevant internship field may apply.
How do I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted via email, including all required documents and the correct reference number in the subject line.
Is work flexibility required?
Yes, interns must be willing to work shifts, standbys, and call-outs when required, depending on operational needs.
