Graduate Development Programme – Environmental Management (24‑Month Role)

Rand Water

Available Locations: Johannesburg, Gauteng

Job Description

Job Summary


Rand Water is inviting passionate, high‑potential Environmental Management graduates to join a structured 24‑month Graduate Development Programme. You will rotate across key environmental functions (e.g., water quality, compliance, sustainability, biodiversity, waste, and climate risk), work alongside seasoned professionals, contribute to real projects, and build the technical, behavioural, and leadership competencies needed for a long-term career in the water sector.



Key Responsibilities



  • Support environmental compliance monitoring, auditing, and reporting against applicable legislation, licences, and internal standards.

  • Assist with water quality sampling, data management, trend analysis, and preparation of technical summaries.

  • Contribute to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), and rehabilitation/mitigation plans.

  • Participate in sustainability, ESG, and climate adaptation initiatives, including data collection and KPI tracking.

  • Help implement waste, air quality, and biodiversity management programmes.

  • Conduct site inspections and risk assessments; log findings and track corrective actions.

  • Prepare presentations, dashboards, and stakeholder communication materials.

  • Support continuous improvement projects (policy updates, procedural reviews, digitalisation of environmental records, etc.).

  • Adhere to health, safety, environmental, and quality (HSEQ) standards at all times.



Required Skills and Qualifications



  • Bachelor’s degree (NQF 7 or equivalent) in Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Water & Sanitation, Natural Sciences, or a closely related field.

  • Academic average of 60% or higher (or as specified by programme entry criteria).

  • Solid understanding of South African environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA, NWA, NEM:WA, NEM:AQA) and permitting frameworks.

  • Strong analytical, numerical, and report‑writing abilities.

  • Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); exposure to GIS/statistical tools is advantageous.

  • Valid driver’s licence (or willingness to obtain within the programme period) is an advantage.



Experience



  • No formal work experience required—this programme is designed for recent graduates.

  • Any internships, vacation work, research projects, or volunteering in environmental management/water sector will be advantageous.



Working Hours



  • Standard 40-hour work week (Monday to Friday), with flexibility required for site visits, fieldwork, or urgent compliance tasks.

  • Occasional travel to plants, reservoirs, laboratories, and project sites.



Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities



  • Knowledge of environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001) and basic HSE principles.

  • Familiarity with sampling protocols, laboratory chains of custody, and data integrity practices.

  • Ability to interpret environmental data, identify trends, and propose corrective actions.

  • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving mindset, and commitment to ethical standards.

  • Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

  • Team player with the ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines.



Benefits



  • Structured learning plan with rotations, coaching, and formal training modules.

  • Mentorship by experienced environmental and water professionals.

  • Competitive stipend and potential access to medical aid and other company benefits (as per programme policy).

  • On-the-job exposure to large-scale water utility operations and compliance frameworks.

  • Opportunity to build a professional portfolio and gain references for future roles.



Why Join Rand Water?



  • Work for one of Africa’s leading water utilities with a public-impact mission.

  • Contribute to sustainable water resource management and environmental stewardship at scale.

  • Gain broad exposure across disciplines, fast-tracking your readiness for entry-level specialist roles.

  • Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and safety-first culture that invests in graduate talent.

  • Build a network of peers and leaders across the sector.



How to Apply


Please submit the following (in a single PDF where possible):



  1. Updated CV (with contact details and academic achievements).

  2. Certified copies of your ID and academic transcripts/qualification(s).

  3. Motivation/Cover Letter (max 1 page) explaining why you are a strong fit for the Environmental Management stream.

  4. Proof of residence (if required for EE/Locality criteria).


Application Method: Apply via Rand Water’s careers portal or the advertised channel, quoting “Graduate Development Programme – Environmental Management (24‑Month Role)” in the subject/reference line.


Closing Date: As advertised. Early applications are encouraged—shortlisting may begin before the deadline.

Apply Now

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