Looking for a real first‑step into the workforce? The Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 is a chance to gain hands‑on experience in South Africa’s most stable industry – electricity. If you’re between 18 and 34, have a Grade 12 pass, and are ready to work in North West, this 12‑month placement could be your gateway to a career in utilities, government or beyond.
What the Eskom YES Programme Looks Like
The programme offers 20 fixed‑term contracts in the Distribution Division’s Customer Service / Retail Business Unit. You’ll work in the GEMMA Cluster, covering three towns: Vryburg, Rustenburg and Lichtenburg.
- Positions available: 20
- Contract length: 12 months
- Remuneration: Market‑related stipend
- Industry: Electricity, Energy & Utilities
- Closing date: 23 March 2026
- Reference number: eskom_003955
Who Should Apply?
If you meet these criteria, you’re a strong candidate:
- South African citizen
- Aged 18–34
- Grade 12 graduate
- Mathematics (≥ 50%) or Mathematical Literacy (≥ 70%)
- English language proficiency (60%)
- Proficiency in at least one other official South African language
Additional eligibility rules for the YES programme:
- Never worked full time with the same employer for more than 12 months
- Not enrolled full‑time during the placement year
- First time applying – previous YES participation disqualifies you
- Must be willing to work in the North West GEMMA Cluster towns
What You’ll Gain
This role is more than simple administration. Over a year you’ll build a toolkit of skills that employers love:
Administrative Skills
- Document handling and data entry
- Processing service requests
- Supporting internal reports
Customer Service Experience
- Answering queries from electricity users
- Managing account resolution workflows
- Coordinating communication with customers
Public‑Sector Workplace Exposure
- Understanding infrastructure service environments
- Working within compliance frameworks
- Learning structured reporting systems
All these skills transfer to municipal jobs, utility roles, government departments and private‑sector positions.
How to Apply
- Prepare a clean, updated CV.
- Gather required documents: certified ID, certified matric certificate, academic transcript if you have one, and proof of residence (optional).
- Visit the official Eskom careers portal and locate the listing using reference eskom_003955 or click here to apply.
- Submit your application before the deadline – 23 March 2026.
Tips to Boost Your Application
- Highlight any maths or maths literacy achievements in your CV.
- Showcase clear communication skills – both written and spoken.
- Emphasise your willingness to learn and adapt.
- Include a brief statement about your reliability and professionalism.
- Because competition is high, consider applying for other local learnerships or EPWP placements to strengthen your profile.
Career Paths After the Programme
Finishing a YES placement can open doors in several sectors:
Government
- Municipal internships and administration roles
- Provincial government programmes
- Department of Energy positions
- Infrastructure coordination internships
Eskom and Utility Careers
- Technical learnerships
- Artisan training programmes
- Administration internships
- Supply chain internships
Private Sector
- Engineering support firms
- Infrastructure contractors
- Utility billing service providers
- Customer service outsourcing companies
Even if this is your first job application, the experience gained will boost your confidence and employability.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a permanent Eskom job? No – it’s a 12‑month fixed‑term placement, but it can lead to future opportunities.
- Will I receive a stipend? Yes, the programme pays a market‑related stipend.
- Can TVET graduates apply? Yes, if you meet the matric subject requirements and are not studying full‑time.
- Can university students apply? Only if you are not currently studying full‑time during the placement year.
- Can I apply if I already completed a YES programme before? No, previous participation disqualifies you.
- Do I need work experience? No, this is designed for first‑time job exposure.
- Are persons with disabilities encouraged to apply? Yes, Eskom welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities.
Closing Date & Next Steps
Don’t miss the chance – submit your application by 23 March 2026. Make sure you use the official Eskom link above and double‑check all documents before you click submit.
Disclaimer
The information provided here is sourced from public records and is intended to help South African youth find employment opportunities. We are not affiliated with Eskom or the YES programme. Always apply through the official Eskom careers portal using the reference number eskom_003955 before the deadline. Eskom reserves the right to not make appointments.
Verification
Organisation: Eskom
Source: Official website/career portal
Apply via: Online portal
Reference: eskom_003955
