Looking for your first real job in 2026?
The Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 gives unemployed South African youth the opportunity to gain paid work experience, build practical skills, and strengthen their CV at one of the country’s most important state-owned companies.
This student-level role is based in KwaZulu-Natal and focuses on customer service and administrative support within Eskom’s retail operations. If you’ve completed Matric and are not currently working or studying full time, this could be your entry point into the energy and utilities sector.
⏰ Closing date: 02 January 2026
About the Eskom YES Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a national initiative aimed at reducing youth unemployment by giving young people 12 months of meaningful work experience. Eskom participates in this programme by placing learners in real operational roles where they can learn on the job.
You will be exposed to how Eskom supports households and businesses with electricity and water services, while developing workplace skills that are valuable in many industries.
Programme Details at a Glance
- Programme Name: Youth Employment Service (YES)
- Job Level: YY1
- Reference Number: eskom_002306
- Sector: Electricity, Energy & Water Supply
- Role Type: Student job – Administration & Customer Services
- Salary: Market-related
- Business Unit: Retail – Customer Services
- Location: Westville and Mkondeni, KwaZulu-Natal
- Work Arrangement: Based on operational requirements
Eskom will place successful candidates at one of its KwaZulu-Natal sites.
What You’ll Gain From the Programme
This opportunity is designed for young people who need work exposure.
Benefits of Joining Eskom YES
- Paid first-time work experience
- Practical customer service and admin skills
- Exposure to a large, professional organisation
- Strong addition to your CV
- Better chances of employment after the programme
For many participants, this programme becomes the bridge between school and permanent employment.
Who Can Apply?
You may apply if you meet all of the following requirements:
- South African citizen
- Aged 18 to 34
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent
- Currently unemployed
- Not studying full time during the programme year
- Have not previously participated in the YES Programme
- Have not been permanently employed by the same employer for more than one year
- Willing to go through Eskom’s full recruitment and vetting process
Advantageous (But Not Required)
- Post-Matric qualification
- Learnership or short programme certificate
- N3 Electrical Engineering certificate
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Skills and Attributes Eskom Is Looking For
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Honesty and reliability
- Professional behaviour and a positive attitude
- Willingness to learn and work in a team
- Customer-focused thinking
- Respect for diversity and inclusion
Employment Equity
Eskom is committed to transformation and follows its Employment Equity Plan. Preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented groups.
♿ Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the Eskom YES Programme 2026
👉 Apply online:
Eskom YES Programme 2026 Application
📅 Application deadline: 02 January 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
📌 If you do not receive feedback within 28 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This programme gives you more than just a job title. It gives you:
- Real workplace experience
- Confidence in a professional environment
- Exposure to the energy and utilities sector
- A stronger foundation for future employment
If you’re serious about starting your career and want to be part of a programme that supports young South Africans, the Eskom YES Programme 2026 is worth applying for.
Final Reminder
⏰ Deadline: 02 January 2026
📍 Location: KwaZulu-Natal (Westville & Mkondeni)
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