NBI invites young South Africans to join the 2026 Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership
Apply now for the National Bioproducts Institute’s YES internship – a 12‑month training program that will launch your career in the pharmaceutical and bioprocessing field. The closing date for applications is 27 November 2025.
Quick Overview
| What you need to know | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | NBI Youth Employment Service (YES) 2026 |
| Reference number | NBI250912-1 |
| Job type | Temporary – 12‑month internship |
| Department | API Manufacturing |
| Location | Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal |
| Work setting | On‑site |
| Minimum education | Grade 12 (English, Maths, Science, Biology) |
| Age range | 18 – 34 years |
| Closing date | 27 November 2025 |
| Industry | Pharmaceutical |
About the National Bioproducts Institute (NBI)
NBI is South Africa’s top biopharmaceutical company. It makes life‑saving plasma‑derived medicines and other diagnostic products. The institute focuses on:
- High‑quality manufacturing
- Innovations that help patients
- Training and skill development for young people
- Equality and transformation in the workplace
The YES Learnership is NBI’s way of building the next generation of scientists, technicians and engineers.
What the NBI YES Programme 2026 Offers
You’ll work as a Fractionator, Process Technician, or Pooling Technician. These roles let you see how medicines are made from the ground up. You’ll learn about:
- Core production steps that keep patients healthy
- Cleanroom safety and hygiene
- Equipment set‑up, maintenance and sampling
- Reading and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
It’s more than a job—it’s a step into a respected industry.
Minimum Requirements
Must‑Have
- South African citizen
- 18–34 years old
- Unemployed and not studying full‑time
- Grade 12 with at least a D in English, Maths, Science and Biology
- Ready to finish the full 12‑month programme
- New to YES (you can’t apply if you already did one)
- No more than 2 years of work experience
Extra Points (Not Required)
- Basic or Post‑Basic Pharmacist Assistant Training (PAT)
- Tertiary studies in Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Life Sciences, Chemistry or Biochemistry
Your Daily Tasks
Safety First
- Regular medical checks
- Mandatory safety training
- Use the correct personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Follow all health and safety laws
- Handle chemicals carefully
Work Hours
- Choose between 12‑hour shifts (06:00–18:00 or 18:00–06:00) or 8‑hour shifts (06:00–18:00)
- Be ready for weekends, public holidays and occasional overtime
- Work inside a cleanroom
Technical Duties
- Prepare and maintain production equipment
- Take samples and perform quality checks
- Record everything in the production logs
- Follow SOPs and keep the environment clean
- Help out during different manufacturing stages
What We’re Looking For
- Strong personal leadership
- Good at building relationships with teammates
- A team player who can influence others
- Focus on quality and accuracy
- Understand how work affects the business
- Eager to learn and grow
How to Apply
Send these items:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified matric certificate
- Any tertiary certificates (if you have them)
- Proof of PAT qualification (if you have one)
Apply through the official NBI website: https://nbisa.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Jobs/View/NBI250912-1
If you do not hear back within 30 days after the closing date, your application was not successful.
FAQ
Is this a paid internship?
Yes, you will receive a monthly stipend.Do I need previous pharma experience?
No, the program is designed for beginners.Can I apply without Maths or Science?
No – you need at least a D in English, Maths, Science, and Biology.Will I get a permanent job after 12 months?
There is no guarantee, but many interns find employment after the programme.Can I apply again if I already did a YES programme?
No, you may only join once.
Closing Date Reminder
27 November 2025 – Don’t miss your chance to start a career in the pharmaceutical world!
