The CSIR invites accounting and finance graduates to apply for the Finance Asset Office Internship based in Pretoria.
Introduction
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has opened applications for its Finance Asset Office Internship Programme, offering two internship positions to qualifying graduates. This opportunity is based in Pretoria and forms part of the organisation’s broader commitment to skills development and capacity building within South Africa’s scientific and industrial landscape.
This internship is designed for graduates seeking practical exposure in accounting, asset management, and financial administration within a nationally recognised research institution.
About the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
The CSIR is one of South Africa’s leading scientific and technology research organisations. Its work focuses on researching, developing, localising, and transferring technologies that contribute to socio-economic development, industrial growth, and the strengthening of a capable state.
Through its research and innovation efforts, the CSIR supports both public and private sector development while creating opportunities for young professionals to gain meaningful workplace experience.
About the Finance Asset Office Internship
The Finance Asset Office Internship falls within the CSIR’s Finance portfolio. The purpose of the programme is to provide graduates with structured, hands-on experience by involving them in accounting and administrative functions related to asset management and financial controls.
Interns will work under supervision and guidance while developing practical skills aligned with professional finance and accounting environments.
Key Responsibilities
Interns appointed to the Finance Asset Office will be responsible for a range of finance and asset-related duties.
Financial Processing and Reconciliation
Interns will assist with processing financial transactions under supervision, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal policies, procedures, and relevant legislation. This includes performing financial account reconciliations to identify discrepancies and ensure transactions are recorded in the correct accounting periods.
Asset Management and Documentation
The role involves preparing and attaching supporting documentation for approvals before processing asset additions and journal entries. Interns will maintain accurate records of journals, additions, disposals, transfers, reconciliations, and verification documents for audit purposes.
Queries, Reporting, and Compliance
Interns will follow up on and resolve queries from divisions, clusters, portfolios, and custodians, escalating matters to supervisors or accountants where necessary. Compliance with month-end and year-end financial processes is essential to support timely closure of financial records.
Asset Verification and Audit Support
The internship includes physical verification of assets, scanning of barcodes and QR codes across CSIR locations, and follow-up visits to departments to confirm and compare asset information. Interns will contribute to creating a transparent audit trail and support quarterly document management to ensure audit readiness.
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
Applicants must meet the minimum academic and skills requirements to be considered.
Minimum Qualification
- A three-year diploma or degree in Accounting or Finance
Technical Knowledge
- Understanding of basic accounting principles
- Basic knowledge of VAT principles
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Outlook
Personal and Professional Skills
- Strong attention to detail and sound analytical skills
- Good problem-solving ability
- Effective time management and planning skills
- Ability to work under pressure and manage stress
- Good administrative and record-keeping skills
- Professional written and verbal communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills and teamwork ability
- Punctuality, adaptability, and a strong work ethic
Interns must also be capable of working remotely when required and demonstrate self-discipline, accountability, and initiative.
Employment Equity and Background Checks
The CSIR is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles of the Employment Equity Act. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups.
Applicants should note that the CSIR may conduct criminal and credit checks, as well as verify educational qualifications and employment history, particularly for roles involving financial responsibility and trust.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official CSIR recruitment platform. Applicants are advised not to send applications to the recruitment enquiry email address, as it is strictly for information requests only.
To apply for this job please visit candidate.csir.co.za.
Closing Date
The application deadline for this internship opportunity is 19 December 2025.
Conclusion
The CSIR Finance Asset Office Internship Programme offers accounting and finance graduates a valuable opportunity to gain structured workplace experience within a respected national research organisation. With exposure to asset management, financial controls, and audit processes, this internship provides a strong foundation for graduates aiming to build a career in finance, accounting, or public sector administration.
Eligible graduates are encouraged to apply within the specified timeframe to be considered for this professional development opportunity.
