The CSIR is offering a Financial Administrator Internship in Pretoria. Accounting or Finance graduates can apply before 21 April 2026 for practical work experience.
Introduction
Graduates seeking practical experience in finance and accounting now have an opportunity to apply for a Financial Administrator Internship offered by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). This internship is designed to provide hands-on exposure to financial administration within a leading scientific and technology research organisation in South Africa. The position is based in Scientia, Pretoria, and forms part of the organisation’s financial services support team in the Advanced Production and Security Division.
The CSIR plays a vital role in researching, developing, and localising technologies that contribute to socio-economic growth and industrial development. Through this internship, selected candidates will gain valuable experience in a structured professional environment while supporting financial operations within the organisation.
About the Financial Administrator Internship
The Financial Administrator Internship is a temporary, full-time opportunity aimed at graduates who want to build experience in financial administration and accounting. The successful candidate will report to the Management Accountant within the division and will work closely with finance professionals.
The purpose of the internship is to equip graduates with practical knowledge by involving them in accounting duties, financial processes, and administrative support tasks. This hands-on exposure is intended to strengthen the intern’s understanding of financial systems, governance frameworks, and organisational procedures.
Key Responsibilities
The intern will gain exposure to the organisation’s financial policies, processes, and governance frameworks. This includes understanding internal controls and compliance requirements essential in a professional finance environment.
One of the main duties involves capturing projects and contracts in the PeopleSoft system in line with CSIR policies. The intern will also ensure that all required supporting documentation is complete and properly recorded. In addition, the role includes generating invoices once approved requests are received and assisting with follow-ups on outstanding debtor accounts.
The successful candidate will also assist with preparing financial reports such as timesheet reports and project expenditure reports. This includes supporting the preparation of journals and bad debt provisions. The intern will further provide financial administrative support to line staff and management accountants.
Other responsibilities include processing financial transactions under supervision, performing account reconciliations, and identifying discrepancies. The intern will also maintain financial records such as invoices and journals for audit and reference purposes.
The role involves assisting with month-end and year-end financial processes, ensuring that deadlines are met and transactions are recorded accurately. The intern may also be required to assist with ad-hoc finance-related tasks and contribute ideas for improving business processes.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Applicants must hold a three-year Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance. This academic background will enable the intern to apply basic accounting principles within a practical work environment.
Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of basic accounting concepts, statutory requirements, and VAT principles. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and email communication is also required.
The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with attention to detail. Good time management and planning abilities are essential, as the role involves handling multiple financial tasks. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are also important, as the intern will interact with team members and management.
In addition, applicants must be able to work under pressure, maintain good administrative and record-keeping practices, and collaborate effectively in large teams.
Location and Duration
The internship is based in Scientia, Pretoria, and is offered as a full-time temporary position. This provides graduates with an opportunity to gain workplace exposure in a professional research and technology environment.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 21 April 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.
Employment Equity and Selection Process
The CSIR is committed to employment equity and will give preference to candidates from designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Act. Applicants should note that the organisation may conduct credit and criminal checks where necessary and verify educational qualifications and employment history.
The CSIR also reserves the right to withdraw the advertisement before the closing date or not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified.
Final Thoughts
The Financial Administrator Internship at the CSIR presents a valuable opportunity for Accounting and Finance graduates to gain practical experience in a respected research organisation. With exposure to financial systems, reporting processes, and governance frameworks, the internship offers a solid foundation for building a career in finance.
Graduates who meet the requirements and are eager to develop their skills in financial administration are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
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