Sappi, one of South Africa’s most respected forestry and paper manufacturing companies, is inviting applications from suitably qualified recent graduates for a one-year Geographic Information System (GIS) Internship based at the Shaw Research Centre in Tweedie, near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal. This is a rare and valuable opportunity for a young professional to gain structured, hands-on experience in applied spatial data science within a leading industrial forestry environment.
About the Opportunity
The GIS Intern will be embedded in Sappi’s Forestry division, where spatial data plays a central role in land management, environmental planning, and operational decision-making. Over the course of the twelve-month programme, the successful candidate will work alongside experienced professionals who will serve as dedicated mentors, providing guidance, support, and practical knowledge transfer throughout the internship. Sappi places great emphasis on the development of its interns, ensuring that each participant leaves the programme with meaningful real-world skills and a stronger professional foundation than when they arrived.
This is not a passive observational role. The GIS Intern will be expected to actively contribute to the Forestry division’s spatial data operations from the outset, taking on responsibilities that will challenge and grow their technical capabilities in a practical setting.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will investigate, analyse, and provide workable solutions to the division’s spatial data requirements as they arise. This will include assisting in the ongoing maintenance of spatial datasets and conducting a variety of spatial analyses to support operational and strategic planning. The intern will also provide direct service to various Sappi business units by responding to and resolving spatial queries, ensuring that accurate and timely geospatial information reaches the teams that need it. Additionally, the role includes completing basic remote sensing analytics, giving the intern exposure to satellite and aerial imagery interpretation within a real forestry context.
Who Should Apply
Sappi is looking for a recent graduate who holds a degree in Geoinformatics, Geography, or an equivalent qualification in which GIS was studied as a major subject. Candidates with a background in Environmental Science with a GIS major are equally encouraged to apply. No prior work experience is required — this internship is specifically designed to bridge the gap between academic training and professional practice.
The ideal candidate will be proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Beyond technical qualifications, Sappi values interns who are curious, detail-oriented, and willing to engage seriously with the responsibilities placed before them.
Location and Duration
The internship is based at the Shaw Research Centre in Tweedie, situated in the Howick area of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. The position runs for one year and is available with immediate effect. Applications close on 24 March 2026, so candidates are encouraged to apply without delay.
How to Apply
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