Jones & Wagener

About Jones & Wagener

Jones & Wagener is a South African firm of consulting engineers and scientists. It was established in 1966 and celebrates 60 years in 2026. The firm has about 250 professionals, and over a third of them are professionally registered engineers and scientists. It is employee-owned and holds Level 1 B-BBEE status.

The firm is known for its geotechnical, tailings and mining-related work. It offers 13 main service areas. These include structural and geotechnical engineering, environmental management, mining infrastructure, waste engineering and mine closure. Its offices are in Johannesburg and Pretoria in South Africa. Furthermore, it works from Milton Keynes in the United Kingdom, Accra in Ghana and Windhoek in Namibia.

How Jones & Wagener supports students

Jones & Wagener offers a limited number of bursaries. They are for civil engineering students at South African universities. Grade 12 learners who plan to study BEng or BSc Civil Engineering can apply. So can students who are already at a tertiary institution. The firm says it focuses on mentorship and the growth of young engineers, which explains why it funds students.

The bursary covers university tuition fees and accommodation. It may also include a limited allowance for textbooks and living out. Awards depend on academic merit and financial need. In addition, the firm aims to reflect the population make-up of South Africa in its selection.

What to know before applying

Work obligations are part of the deal. Bursars do six weeks of paid vacation work at the firm's offices in Rivonia or Centurion. This takes place during the July or December recess. After graduating, they work for Jones & Wagener for a period equal to the time they received the bursary. Therefore, students should be happy to start their career with this firm.

The vacation work has a real benefit. Students see geotechnical and structural projects first-hand and build a network before they graduate. Employers value that experience, so it can open doors even later.

Because the number of awards is limited, competition is strong. Strong matric results in Mathematics and Physical Science help school leavers. Current students should keep their pass rate high. Prepare a certified ID, academic records and a clear motivation about why civil engineering suits you.

Geotechnical work gives the firm a distinct place in the industry. Tailings dams, mine closure and waste facilities need careful design and long-term monitoring. Consequently, young civil engineers who join the firm may gain experience that many general consultancies do not offer. That focus may suit students who like soil, water and environmental challenges as much as concrete and steel.

Applications have been submitted by email or post to the firm's bursary contact. Closing dates change every year and were not confirmed for the current cycle. Therefore, check the firm's official website before you apply.