Firefighting Internship Programme 2026: 16 Paid Municipal Placements Now Open

Govan Mbeki Local Municipality has officially opened applications for its Firefighting Internship Programme for 2026. This opportunity makes 16 paid internship positions available for unemployed, trained firefighters who are ready to gain real-world experience, serve their community, and grow within a structured municipal environment.
Firefighting is not just another job opportunity. It is a career built on courage, discipline, and service. Firefighters are often the first to respond in emergencies, placing themselves in danger to protect lives, property, and communities. For trained firefighters who have been waiting for a practical entry point into municipal services, this internship can be a critical stepping stone.
If you have completed your firefighter training and are looking for an opportunity to apply your skills in real operational settings, this programme offers a solid foundation for long-term career growth.
Internship Overview
Opportunity Name: Internship Programme for Firefighters
Organisation: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
Number of Positions: 16
Duration: 12 months
Monthly Stipend: R8 300.00
Reference Number: 2025–2026/025
Target Group: Unemployed, trained firefighters
Work Location: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality (Secunda and surrounding municipal jurisdiction)
Applications must be submitted using the official municipal application form together with all required supporting documents. Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Who Should Apply
The municipality is specifically targeting unemployed individuals who have completed formal firefighter training and meet the minimum entry requirements outlined below.
Basic Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Grade 12 qualification
Age between 20 and 35 years
Fire Fighter I qualification
Fire Fighter II qualification
Hazmat Awareness certification
First Aid Level 3 certification
Physically and mentally fit for firefighting duties
Added Advantages
While not compulsory, the following will strengthen an application:
Hazmat Operational certification
Valid Code C driver’s licence
EC driver’s licence
These additional requirements indicate that the municipality is seeking candidates who are not only trained, but capable of operating vehicles and responding effectively in hazardous and high-risk environments.
Application Requirements
A significant number of applications are rejected due to missing or incorrect documentation. Applicants are strongly advised to ensure that all required documents are included and correctly prepared.
You must submit the following:
Fully completed official municipal application form
Comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV)
Certified copy of your South African ID
Certified copies of all completed firefighting qualifications, including Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Hazmat Awareness, and First Aid Level 3
Copy of a municipal services account
The official application form can be obtained from:
Secunda Main Offices
All regional municipal offices
The Govan Mbeki Municipality website
Important Compliance Notes
Applications without a completed official application form will not be considered.
Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to present original qualification documents during the interview process.
Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide SAQA verification.
Failure to comply with any of the above requirements may result in immediate disqualification.
Where to Submit Your Application
Applications must be addressed to:
The Manager: Human Capital
Private Bag X1017
Secunda
2302
Applications may also be submitted at all municipal offices within the Govan Mbeki Municipal jurisdiction.
Closing Date
Applications close on Friday, 13 February 2026.
Late submissions are generally not accepted in municipal recruitment processes. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid disappointment.
Conclusion
The Firefighting Internship Programme 2026 offered by Govan Mbeki Local Municipality presents a valuable opportunity for trained but unemployed firefighters to gain hands-on experience within a formal municipal structure. With a monthly stipend, practical exposure, and the chance to serve communities in need, this internship can play a vital role in shaping a sustainable career in emergency services.
Applicants who meet the requirements and submit complete applications stand the best chance of being considered. If firefighting is your calling and you are ready to serve, this programme could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.




