Eskom Youth Employment Service 2026 Intake – Apply Now for Career & Internship Opportunities
Eskom is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Youth Employment Service (YES) opportunities. The closing date for applications is 13 February 2026.
If you’re a 15‑ to 25‑year‑old in Joburg, Gauteng or anywhere in South Africa, this could be a real chance to step into the energy sector, earn a paycheck and learn skills that open doors to future jobs.
What’s the YES Programme All About?
- Who runs it? Eskom, the national electricity provider, together with the Presidency and corporate partners.
- Where? Various Eskom sites across KwaZulu‑Natal – from power stations to customer‑service centres.
- Who’s it for? South African citizens, 18‑34 years old, with a matric pass, a post‑matric certificate, or an N3 in Electrical Engineering.
- What you’ll do:
- Support day‑to‑day admin tasks (filing, scheduling, data entry).
- Assist in customer‑service calls and emails.
- Shadow teams that run power plants and learn the ropes of operational processes.
- Pick up communication and workplace etiquette that any employer loves.
Think of it as a “real‑world internship” that pays you while you’re learning. The pay is market‑related, so you’ll get a fair wage for the work you do.
Why This is a Good Start for Beginners
- No CV‑experience needed – they’re looking for a good attitude and a willingness to learn, not a long work history.
- Build a network – meet people in the energy industry who can later refer you for full‑time roles or further training.
- Future pathways – after the YES stint you could move into admin assistant positions, customer service teams, technical learnerships or even utility management roles.
Eligibility Checklist
| Criterion | Must‑Meet? |
|---|---|
| South African citizen | ✔ |
| Age 18‑34 | ✔ |
| Matric / post‑matric / N3 Electrical Engineering | ✔ |
| Not have been permanently employed by one company for more than one year | ✔ |
| Not studying full‑time during the year you’re employed | ✔ |
| First‑time YES applicant (no prior participation) | ✔ |
| Willing to go through Eskom’s screening | ✔ |
| Ready to work in KwaZulu‑Natal | ✔ |
If you tick all these boxes, you’re on the right track.
Required Documents
- Photo ID – SA ID or passport.
- Curriculum Vitae – keep it short, highlight any volunteer or school work that shows you’re reliable.
- Academic certificates – Matric or proof of post‑matric studies.
- Cover letter – a quick note (1‑2 paragraphs) telling Eskom why you want the role.
- Reference letter (optional but helpful) – from a teacher or previous employer.
How to Apply – Step By Step
- Grab your CV and cover letter – keep it clear and honest.
- Head to the Eskom Careers portal – Apply right here before it closes.
- Fill out the online form – upload your documents and answer a few quick questions.
- Submit – you’ll see a confirmation screen.
- Keep an eye on your email – Eskom will notify you of the next step (shortlist, interview, etc.).
Tips to Stand Out
- Show a clean, typo‑free CV – first impressions matter.
- Highlight your communication skills – whether it’s a school debate club or a volunteer role.
- Emphasise reliability – mention times you’ve been punctual and consistent.
- Be honest about what you know – if you’re a beginner, say it. Eskom values a willingness to learn over experience.
- Apply early – don’t wait until the last minute – the first 30 days of the year are a busy time for recruiters.
What Happens After the YES Programme?
Many alumni go on to:
- Eskom Learnerships – deeper technical training in power generation.
- Municipal energy departments – roles that keep the lights on for communities.
- Private‑sector admin or customer‑service positions – in any industry.
- Further study – the experience can boost your university applications.
The key takeaway? The experience you gain is like a ticket that lets you hop into many doors that were previously closed.
FAQs (in Plain English)
Who can apply?
SA citizens aged 18‑34 with a matric pass, a post‑matric certificate, or an N3 Electrical Engineering.
Is this a permanent job?
No, it’s a structured exposure program. Think of it like a paid internship.
Will I get paid?
Yes – the pay is market‑related, so it’s a fair wage for the work you’ll do.
Can students apply?
Only if you’re not studying full‑time during the year you’re working.
Can I apply again if I’ve done YES before?
No, it’s for first‑time participants only.
Where exactly will I work?
Across Eskom’s operations in KwaZulu‑Natal – you might be at a power plant, a customer‑service centre, or an admin office.
What does the day look like?
A mix of filing, data entry, helping customers, and shadowing teams that keep power flowing.
Remember: This isn’t just another temporary job – it’s a launchpad into a sustainable career in the energy sector. If you’re ready to learn, be reliable, and bring enthusiasm, this could be the turning point you need.
Feel free to visit the Eskom Youth Employment Service page for more details, or just dive straight into the application link above. Good luck, future Eskom pro!
