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Internship providing hands‑on experience in environmental and social risk management at IFC, part of WBG Pioneers.
Located in Johannesburg, the role supports E&S due diligence across Southern and Central Africa, enhancing investment impact.
Job information:
Title: WBG Pioneer - Environmental and Social (E&S) Intern
Location: Johannesburg
seniority_level: internship
skills_hard: [Environmental Impact Assessment, Social Impact Assessment, E&S risk management, Due Diligence, Risk Screening, IFC Performance Standards, RepRisk, iBAT, Contextual risk assessment, Documentation, Data analysis, Research, Portfolio monitoring, Database management, Reporting]
skills_soft: [Analytical, Research, Problem-solving, Communication, Teamwork, Organizational, Time-management, Adaptability]
location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Remote: onsite
Required Language(s): English
Preferred Language(s):
Closing Date: 8/12/2026 (11:59pm UTC)
Description
WBG Pioneers, the World Bank Group’s Internship Program, offers undergraduate and postgraduate students a high impact learning experience at the heart of global development. Participants gain hands on experience in a diverse and dynamic environment, contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, and connect with international professionals working to end poverty on a livable planet.
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet.
IFC’s Environmental and Social (E&S) team is seeking an intern as part of the WBG Pioneers Program. The purpose of this internship is to provide support to the E&S regional team for Southern and Central Africa on E&S risk management vis -à-vis IFC Performance Standards with the aim of promoting compliance with IFC’s E&S standards and enhanced impact and additionality of IFC -supported investments. The role will work across both direct investments (loans, equity etc.) as well as E&S risk management on public private partnership (PPP) projects.
Duties and Responsibilities
Due Diligence and Risk Screening
- Support with the identification of key project E&S risks associated with both direct investments as well PPP projects against the requirements of IFC’s Performance Standards.
- Support with the preparation of internal E&S documentation to enable IFC’s decision making and attend internal meetings.
- Review E&S documentation, impact assessments, management plans etc. for consistency with IFC Performance Standards, accurateness, and completeness.
- Use and integrate various tools and data sources to support early risk screening identification, and development of recommendations (e.g. RepRisk, iBAT, contextual risk assessment); and
- Assist in ensuring completeness of due diligence records and documentation.
Portfolio Monitoring and Support
- Assist with the monitoring of E&S actions implemented by clients;
- Assist with client supervision visits and E&S Annual Monitoring Reports reviews;
- Update databases, records, and project documentation on a timely basis; and
- Assist with portfolio reporting.
Selection Criteria
Candidates must be currently enrolled in, or in the final year of, a postgraduate (master’s/PhD) program in the preferred fields of environmental studies or engineering, international development, sociology, biodiversity/ecology, anthropology, environmental and social sciences or related areas
Candidates must have 2-5 years of relevant professional experience in E&S risk management as well as development and review of safeguards documentation such as Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, Environmental and Social Due Diligence, and specific E&S management plans (Resettlement Action Plan etc.)
Interest and understanding in development finance and the World Bank Group’s mission
Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work effectively in diverse, team-based environments
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities within tight deadlines
Proficiency in English; additional languages are advantageous
Note: Please limit your applications to a maximum of three positions. Applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.
WBG Culture Attributes:
- 1. Sense of urgency: Anticipate and quickly respond to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.
- 2. Thoughtful risk-taking: Challenge the status quo and push boundaries to achieve greater impact.
- 3. Empowerment and accountability: Empower yourself and others to act and hold each other accountable for results.
The World Bank Group values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of World Bank Group member countries to apply, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. Sub-Saharan African nationals, Caribbean nationals, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.