The construction and skilled trades industries are vital to South Africa’s economy, playing a major role in infrastructure, housing, transport, and energy. If you’re studying civil engineering, quantity surveying, project management, or a skilled trade like plumbing or electrical work, an internship or apprenticeship is your best pathway into the field.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the top construction and trades internships in South Africa and give you practical tips on how to land one in 2025.
👷‍♂️ What Are Construction & Trades Internships?
Construction internships are short-term work placements designed to give students and graduates hands-on experience in:
- Site work and construction processes
- Project planning and management
- Health and safety compliance
- Quantity surveying and cost control
- Skilled trades (electrical, welding, plumbing, etc.)
These internships help build both your technical skills and industry network.
🏗 Top Construction & Trades Internship Opportunities in South Africa (2025)
1. Murray & Roberts Learnership and Internship Programme
Location: Nationwide
Fields: Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Health & Safety, Construction Management
Murray & Roberts is one of South Africa’s biggest engineering and construction groups. They offer structured graduate and internship programmes in construction-related fields.
đź”— www.murrob.com
2. WBHO Construction Internship Programme
Location: Johannesburg & Project Sites
Fields: Building Science, Civil Engineering, Construction Management
Interns get real-world exposure to building projects and work alongside experienced engineers and project managers.
đź”— www.wbho.co.za
3. Raubex Group Internships
Location: Bloemfontein, Gauteng, and across South Africa
Fields: Civil Engineering, Construction Supervision, Roadworks
Raubex is a leader in road and infrastructure construction and offers opportunities for students in engineering and technical trades.
đź”— www.raubex.com
4. Aveng Grinaker-LTA Internship Programme
Location: Gauteng and project sites
Fields: Electrical Engineering, Construction Safety, Site Management
Interns gain exposure to major infrastructure projects including bridges, buildings, and rail systems.
đź”— www.aveng.co.za
5. Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Internships
Location: Nationwide
Fields: Bricklaying, Plumbing, Painting, Carpentry, Civil Engineering
DPWI offers artisan development programmes and internships focused on trades and national infrastructure development.
6. TVET College Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
TVET colleges often partner with construction companies to place students in practical internships or apprenticeships (WIL). If you’re studying at a college like Ekurhuleni East TVET, Motheo TVET, or Northlink College, ask your student support office about partnerships.
🔧 Great for trades like: Welding, Electrical, Fitting, Boiler Making, Plumbing
🔑 How to Get a Construction or Trade Internship in South Africa
Here are some practical steps to follow:
âś… 1. Build a Practical CV
Highlight:
- Technical subjects (maths, engineering graphics, design)
- Workshops or hands-on training
- Any site visits, short courses, or safety training (e.g. First Aid, SHE Rep)
- Attach copies of certificates (especially for trades)
👉 Need a free template? Download a CV Template for Internships
âś… 2. Start Applying Early
Large construction firms post graduate programmes between February and May, and many TVET and artisan opportunities open throughout the year.
âś… 3. Get Your Documents Ready
Prepare:
- Certified ID copy
- Academic transcript
- CV and cover letter
- Proof of address
- Trade qualifications (if applicable)
âś… 4. Apply Through the Right Channels
Use trusted websites like:
- GoIntern.co.za
- Careers24
- Indeed SA
- Direct company websites (search “Graduate” or “Careers” pages)
âś… 5. Network in the Industry
Ask your lecturers, family, or friends if they know any site managers, contractors, or local builders. Many small to medium construction firms don’t advertise internships but are open to offering short-term placements to eager students.
👷‍♀️ Final Thoughts
Construction and trades internships give you the experience and confidence to work on real projects, follow safety protocols, and collaborate with skilled teams. With infrastructure being a national priority, there’s growing demand for young talent in both technical and trade fields.
👉 Ready to apply?
Check out the latest openings on GoIntern.co.za and start building your future, brick by brick.
Leave a Reply