• Start date: The Centre for Environmental Rights NPC (CER) is seeking to hire two candidate legal practitioners for placement starting on 13 January 2026.
• Contract Duration: The successful candidate will be offered a two-year fixed-term contract to serve their practical vocational training (Articles). We are looking for graduates who have a special interest in and passion for environmental and climate justice, and who are committed to using the law to uphold environmental rights.
• Salary: The current salary for the position is R374 173 (total cost to company) which includes the compulsory membership to the Centre’s group medical aid and pension plan subsidy benefits.
• Location: The CER main office is based in Mowbray, Cape Town, with a satellite office in Johannesburg.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Consulting with clients
• Conducting legal research in support of advocacy and litigation
• Drafting legal documents, submissions and opinions
• Liaising with the media and other stakeholders
• Representing CER in civil society forums

Qualifications and Requirements:

• An LLB or equivalent qualification; an LLM in a relevant field will be an advantage.
• Demonstrable writing and analytical skills, good presentation skills, and attention to detail
• Computer literacy and excellent legal research skills
• A passion for environmental, social and climate justice

CER is committed to diversity, inclusion and transformation and strives to reflect South Africa’s racial, cultural, sex and gender diversity within its staff complement. Candidates from historically disadvantaged or marginalised groups are strongly encouraged to apply for this post and will be preferred.

How to Apply for The Centre for Environmental Rights NPC (CER): Candidate Legal Practitioner Programme 2026-2028

Please send the following documents to: recruitment@cer.org.za with the email subject line: “CER CLP 2026-2028, Ref no. 06/2025, Your full name”:

• Your updated CV;
• A cover letter setting out your skills and relevant experience, and motivating why you want to work at the CER; and
• Two written references or recommendation letters not less than six months old.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete relevant tests or assignment to demonstrate competency. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The Centre reserves the right not to appoint should there be no suitable candidate.