Young South Africans can now apply for the Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026, a chance to earn your first real workplace experience while the deadline approaches.
What the opportunity is
Eskom is offering 25 paid placements through its Youth Employment Service. Each successful candidate will sign a 12‑month contract and may be assigned to an Eskom operation in any South African province. The role is designed for people who have finished Grade 12 (or an equivalent qualification) but have not yet secured substantial work experience.
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
- Age: 18 to 34 years
- Citizenship: South African
- Education: Grade 12 or equivalent; post‑matric certificates or programmes are also accepted
- Employment history: Not permanently employed by the same employer for more than one continuous year
- Study status: Must not be studying full‑time during the 12‑month period
- Previous YES participation: Applicants must not have already taken part in the YES programme
What you will gain
The 12‑month placement gives you practical exposure to a large, national organisation. You can develop transferable skills such as:
- Effective communication and teamwork
- Time management and accountability
- Understanding of workplace procedures and safety standards
- Customer‑service orientation, even in non‑retail roles
- Professional conduct and integrity
- Basic administrative and technical tasks relevant to the energy sector
These skills are valuable for future entry‑level jobs, learnerships, internships or further studies.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official Eskom application page: Apply for the Eskom YES Programme 2026 here.
- Read the full job listing (reference eskom_006424, internal reference 50904987LM) and note the locations listed – Sunninghill, Midrand and Rosherville – while being aware that placement may be elsewhere.
- Prepare a concise CV that clearly shows your Grade 12 qualification, any post‑matric certificates, volunteer work, leadership roles or short courses.
- Gather electronic copies of your qualification certificates and ID document. Upload them only if the online form requests them.
- Complete the screening questions honestly – especially those about previous permanent employment, full‑time study, and prior YES participation.
- Submit the application before the closing date of 24 August 2026. Early submission reduces the risk of technical issues.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show integrity: Provide accurate information and avoid exaggerating experience.
- Highlight professionalism: Mention punctuality, reliability and any experience following instructions or working in a team.
- Demonstrate customer focus: Even if the role is behind the scenes, explain how your work will support internal or external customers.
- Include relevant activities: School leadership, community projects, part‑time jobs, computer courses or sports captaincy all count.
- Double‑check contact details: A wrong phone number or email can mean you miss important communication.
- Do not pay anyone: Apply only through the official Eskom link. No legitimate employer asks for payment to secure a place.
Next steps and encouraging conclusion
If you meet the criteria, submit a complete, honest application today. The 12‑month contract does not guarantee permanent employment, but it will give you a solid record of workplace exposure that many employers require.
After you are accepted, keep a personal log of the tasks you perform, the systems you learn and any training you receive. This journal will make it much easier to update your CV and to interview for future positions.
Remember: there are only 25 spots, so act now. Prepare your documents, apply before 24 August 2026, and take the first step toward building a professional career in South Africa’s energy sector.
