Psychology Graduates Wanted by Labour Department: Trainee Counsellor Jobs
| Job Title: | Trainee Employment Counsellor (x130 Posts) |
|---|---|
| Date: | Closing Date: 12 September 2025 |
| Location: | All 9 Provinces of South Africa |
| Salary: | R7,860.40 per month (stipend) |
| Company: | Department of Employment and Labour |
| Duration: | 12-month Internship Programme |
| Application Link: | Apply on ESSA |
Kickstart Your Psychology Career with a Government Internship
If you’re a psychology graduate eager to launch your career, the Department of Employment and Labour is offering a golden opportunity in the form of its 2025/2026 Trainee Employment Counsellors Programme. This internship is designed for South African unemployed graduates looking to gain practical work experience in employment counselling and labour market services. With 130 positions available across all provinces, this 12-month programme offers a real stepping stone into public sector jobs while giving you hands-on exposure in a professional government environment.
About the Role: What Trainee Employment Counsellors Do
As a Trainee Employment Counsellor, you’ll be working alongside experienced professionals in the field of labour market services and human resource development. Your duties will include providing administrative support to employment counsellors, conducting research on labour market needs, helping with recruitment and placement, and registering work-seekers on the ESSA system. You will also assist with the implementation of best practices in employment counselling and career guidance. It’s a dynamic, people-facing role that allows you to make a meaningful impact on job seekers’ lives while gaining core skills for your career in psychology or HR.
Who Should Apply for This Internship
This opportunity is ideal for psychology and industrial psychology graduates who want to grow within the public sector. Whether you’ve recently completed your undergraduate degree or hold an Honours in Psychology, this programme is your chance to gain meaningful work experience. If you’re registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Registered Counsellor or Psychometrist, even better — preference will be given to you. The programme is especially suited to those who haven’t participated in similar internships before and are keen to work in government departments.
Skills & Requirements for Eligibility
- South African citizenship
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Three-year qualification in Psychology or Industrial Psychology
- Honours degree is an added advantage
- HPCSA registration as a Registered Counsellor or Psychometrist is a bonus
- Strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and within a team
Make sure to fully complete the new Z83 application form, initial and sign it, and ensure your CV is comprehensive and up to date. Only these two documents should be submitted in PDF format as a single file.
Benefits of Joining the Department of Employment and Labour
This is more than just an internship—it’s your entry into the world of government careers. You’ll earn a monthly stipend of R7,860.40 while gaining practical work experience aligned with your studies. Working within the Department of Employment and Labour allows you to build a network in the public sector and gain a deep understanding of government job systems and labour dynamics. You also get access to mentors and employment services professionals who can guide your career. If you’ve been looking for entry-level government jobs, this programme is the perfect springboard.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions
To apply, visit the official ESSA platform at https://crs.labour.gov.za. Make sure to select the post relevant to your province and use the correct reference number in your application. Attach your signed Z83 form (new version only) and CV in one PDF file. You do not need to submit qualifications or ID unless shortlisted. Ensure your application is accurate and complete—incorrect or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Closing Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out
This internship with the Department of Employment and Labour is a rare and valuable opportunity for psychology graduates eager to enter the public sector. It provides more than just a monthly stipend—it offers mentorship, meaningful job experience, and a potential future in government employment. If you meet the criteria and are ready to help shape South Africa’s workforce, apply before the deadline on 12 September 2025. Your future starts here—don’t let it slip away!
