CSIR: Finance Internship Programme 2025

The CSIR has an Internship Opportunity within the Account Payable department in the Financial Services portfolio. 

The incumbent will be responsible to accurately and completely prepare and process financial transactions in line with the CSIR policy, processes, guidelines and legislation for the timeous and correct payment, receipting and accounting of transactions within the required time frames and under pressure to meet deadlines. The position is based in Pretoria. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Verify correctness of and processing of supplier invoices and ensure accurate processing in terms of approvals (need to comply with CSIR policies and procedures), financial code allocations, VAT requirements, calculations and vendor details. 
• Process payments and receipts accurately after validation against substantiating documents and ensure the legislative requirements, terms and banking information is correct and the correct account is updated. 
• Supplier reconciliations need to be prepared on ALL statements received to detect long outstanding amounts for action in order to reduce the risk of loss, improve communication with suppliers and prevent fraud. 
• Record keeping of all relevant documents in adherence with the CSIR document retention policy and legislative requirements to ensure documents are available when necessary. 
• Assist internal and external auditors in meeting the audit deadlines by providing the required information ensuring that the supporting documentation is accurate and complete. 
• Comply with month-end and year-end processes according to the established plan so that transactions, processes, and reports are completed on time. 
• Inform management of possible risks identified during daily work activities that could result in wastage or misuse of the CSIR resources 
• Follow up and resolve outstanding stakeholder queries (internal and external) or escalate to the Supervisor. 
• Identify opportunities to improve business processes and to perform duties more efficiently and effectively and communicate these to the management accountant/finance manager. 
• Create a culture of customer service and continuous improvement. 

Requirements:

• A three-year National Diploma in: Accounting or Finance. 
• Ability to adapt time frames and work under pressure to meet deadlines. 
• Basic knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite and VAT principles. 
• The ability to pay attention to detail, work under pressure and manage stress.  
• Knowledge of statutory requirements, legislation, policies and procedures typically relevant in area of responsibility. 
• Good verbal, written and listening communication skills. 
• Ability to work/function well within teams.  
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a sound work ethic. 
• Time management skills and ability to manage stress. 
• Good office administration and record keeping skills. 
• Good time management and planning skills. 
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.