The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has officially opened applications for its Graduate in Training (GIT) Programme for 2025. If you’re a recent graduate in Electronic Engineering or Mechatronic Engineering and looking to kickstart your career in a high-tech environment, this is one of the best opportunities you’ll come across this year.
The roles are based at the CSIR’s Scientia Campus in Pretoria and will follow a hybrid working model. Applications close on 30 July 2025.
What Is the GIT Programme All About?
The CSIR is looking for young professionals to join its Aerospace Systems Impact Area, which forms part of the broader Defence and Security Cluster. These aren’t your average graduate roles. You’ll be working hands-on in one of the most advanced research and development spaces in the country—perfect if you want experience that’s both technical and meaningful.
These are full-time, fixed-term roles—so you’re signing up for real responsibility and valuable training that can launch your career.
Position 1: Graduate in Training – Electronic Engineer
Here’s What You’ll Be Doing:
- Help out with installations, upgrades, and troubleshooting of electrical systems
- Get involved in energy management projects, especially for the wind tunnel plant
- Work on PLC systems—both programming and support—on platforms like Siemens and Allen Bradley
- Take part in designing power factor correction systems and printed circuit boards
- Assist with data acquisition, instrumentation, and even project coordination
- Keep your technical documentation up to date and support your engineering team wherever needed
What You Need to Qualify:
- A bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Experience using CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks
- You should know your way around PLC programming and industrial automation
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- South African citizenship is essential, and you need to qualify for security clearance
Position 2: Graduate in Training – Mechatronic Engineer
Your Day-to-Day Tasks Will Include:
- Supporting upgrades and maintenance of electromechanical systems
- Diagnosing and fixing issues with motors, wiring, and control systems
- PLC programming and design of PFC and PCB systems
- Assisting in automation and control system setups
- General engineering project support—working closely with the technical team
To Be Considered, You’ll Need:
- A bachelor’s degree in Mechatronic Engineering
- Familiarity with AutoCAD and SolidWorks for technical drawings
- Good understanding of mechanical systems, PLCs, and variable speed drives
- Solid teamwork ethic and strong critical thinking skills
- South African citizenship and the ability to obtain security clearance
Who Should Apply?
If you’re passionate about innovation, technology, and solving real-world problems, and you want to work in an environment where you’re constantly learning, the CSIR GIT Programme is the right place to start. You’ll need to be ready to step up, take initiative, and work under pressure at times—but you’ll be surrounded by smart people doing impactful work.
They’re looking for graduates who can think on their feet, communicate well, and contribute to a team that’s pushing boundaries in science and tech.
How to apply
Click here to apply for the CSIR Graduate in Training (GIT) Programme 2025:
For enquiries, contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre:
012 841 4774
Recruitmentinfo@csir.co.za
