Imagine playing a pivotal role in South Africa’s democratic process, ensuring election materials are managed efficiently while gaining hands-on logistics experience. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), a Chapter 9 institution dedicated to free and fair elections, is offering a 24-month Warehousing and Logistics Internship at its Provincial Warehouse in Bloemfontein for 2025/2026. With a closing date of 13 August 2025 and a monthly stipend of ZAR 10,441.14, this is a prime opportunity for unemployed graduates. Here’s your guide to applying and thriving in this impactful programme.
Why the IEC Internship?
The IEC, established under South Africa’s Constitution, manages elections for 27 million registered voters, ensuring credibility in the democratic process. Operating nine provincial offices and a national warehouse in Pretoria, the IEC is a cornerstone of governance. This internship addresses South Africa’s 45.5% youth unemployment rate by offering:
- Paid Experience: ZAR 10,441.14 monthly stipend for 24 months.
- Practical Training: Hands-on exposure to logistics, warehousing, and electoral operations.
- Career Growth: Skills in supply chain management, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination, enhancing employability in public or private sectors.
- Impact: Contribute to democracy, supporting by-elections and national elections.
- Inclusivity: People with disabilities are encouraged to apply, reflecting IEC’s commitment to diversity.
With 70% of IEC internship graduates securing jobs (based on similar SETA programmes), this is a launchpad for a logistics career.
What Does a Warehousing & Logistics Intern Do?
As an intern at the IEC’s Bloemfontein Provincial Warehouse, you’ll support electoral logistics under the guidance of a Senior Warehousing Officer. Key training areas include:
- Receiving and Dispatching: Manage election materials (e.g., ballot papers, voting kits) for distribution to voting stations.
- Drafting Specifications: Create procurement specs for supplies and services.
- Supplier Engagement: Liaise with suppliers and service providers for timely delivery.
- Warehousing and Inventory: Oversee stock management, ensuring accurate records and material availability.
- Election Operations: Support by-elections, corporate elections, and delimitation projects.
- Party Liaison: Assist with Party Liaison Committee activities, coordinating with political stakeholders.
- Administrative Tasks:
- Take minutes and write reports.
- Prepare presentations and handle stakeholder enquiries.
- Manage filing, records, and document distribution.
- Schedule and coordinate meetings.
You’ll work extended hours, including weekends, during election periods, gaining skills transferable to logistics roles in government or companies like Unitrans or CCBSA.
Eligibility Requirements
The IEC seeks proactive, unemployed graduates who meet these criteria:
- Citizenship: South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Age: 35 or younger.
- Education:
- Matric/Grade 12/N3/NTC Level 4.
- Bachelor’s degree or National Diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Procurement from a recognized institution.
- Postgraduate qualification in Logistics or Project Management is an advantage.
- Experience: No prior work or internship in your field of study.
- Skills and Attributes:
- Proactive, service-driven, and able to work independently or in a team.
- Strong time management and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable with stakeholder engagement.
- Willing to work extended hours, including weekends.
- Technical:
- Certified copies of ID, Matric, and qualification certificates (SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications).
- Valid driver’s license (if applicable).
How to Apply
Applications are open until 13 August 2025. Follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Comprehensive, updated CV highlighting logistics-related coursework or projects.
- Certified copy of South African ID (within three months).
- Certified copies of Matric and degree/diploma certificates.
- SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications (if applicable).
- Valid driver’s license (if applicable).
- Optional: Cover letter showcasing your interest in electoral logistics.
- Click on “Warehousing & Logistics Internship 2025/2026” (Bloemfontein).
- Create or log into your IEC career portal account.
- Complete the online form and upload documents in PDF format.
- Avoid Scams: Apply only through the official IEC website. Never pay fees or share bank details. Report scams to Sy Mamabolo at +27 12 622 5700.
- Contact for Queries:
- IEC Head Office: +27 12 622 5700 or 0800 11 8000.
- Email: info@elections.org.za (do not send applications here).
What to Expect After Applying
- Review Process: The IEC verifies qualifications and eligibility.
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates are contacted within 2–3 weeks post-closing (by 3 September 2025).
- Interviews/Assessments: Expect interviews or practical tests (e.g., inventory tasks, stakeholder scenarios).
- Risk Assessments: Qualification verification and criminal record checks.
- Outcome: If not contacted by 3 September 2025, your application was unsuccessful. The IEC may not fill the position or use internal transfers.
Successful candidates start in late 2025, working at the Bloemfontein Provincial Warehouse with structured mentorship.
Tips for a Standout Application
- Highlight Logistics Interest: Emphasize any coursework, projects, or volunteer work related to logistics or supply chain in your CV/cover letter.
- Certify Documents: Ensure ID and qualifications are certified within three months by a Commissioner of Oaths.
- Showcase Soft Skills: Highlight time management, teamwork, or stakeholder engagement experience (e.g., school committees).
- Apply Early: Submit by 6 August 2025 to avoid technical issues or early closure.
- Research IEC: Understand its role in elections to align your application with its mission (see www.elections.org.za).
Why This Internship Matters
The IEC manages South Africa’s 27 million voters and 23,000 voting stations, ensuring democratic integrity. This internship offers unique exposure to electoral logistics, a niche field with skills transferable to warehousing roles at companies like CCBSA or government departments. With a ZAR 10,441.14 monthly stipend and no prior experience required, it’s an accessible entry point for graduates, especially those with disabilities, fostering inclusivity and addressing unemployment.
Conclusion
The IEC Warehousing & Logistics Internship 2025/2026 in Bloemfontein is your chance to gain 24 months of paid experience in a critical democratic institution. If you’re a South African graduate (35 or younger) with a Logistics degree/diploma and no prior internships, prepare your CV, certified ID, and qualifications, and apply online at www.elections.org.za/pw/About-Us/BrowseJobs by 13 August 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to support South Africa’s elections and build a logistics career—apply now