A first workplace opportunity can change how a young person sees their future. Maersk is inviting young South Africans to join its YES Learnership 2026/2027, a 12-month entry-level programme that gives learners real exposure to logistics, business operations and customer-focused workplace skills.
The programme is available in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
It is designed for young people who want to gain workplace experience, build professional habits and learn how a global logistics business operates.
For candidates with Grade 12 and little work experience, this can be a strong entry point into the world of supply chain and logistics.
What Is the Maersk YES Learnership Programme?
The Maersk YES Learnership 2026/2027 is a one-year entry-level development programme.
It gives learners exposure to the workplace and helps them build essential business skills.
During the programme, successful candidates will work in one of Maersk’s South African offices or sites.
They will also gain practical experience in a professional environment where logistics, operations and customer service play a major role.
As a result, learners can build confidence while learning how daily business operations work.
What Will Learners Do During the Programme?
Learners will support different business functions at Maersk.
These support tasks help teams run smoothly and give learners practical workplace experience.
In addition, learners will develop a better understanding of business operations, customer service and team collaboration.
The programme can help learners grow in areas such as:
- Workplace communication
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Business support
- Customer-focused thinking
- Operational awareness
- Computer-based work tasks
Therefore, candidates should be ready to learn quickly and take instructions seriously.
Who Can Submit an Application?
Applicants must meet the programme requirements before they submit.
Candidates should have:
- South African citizenship
- Completed Grade 12 / Matric Certificate
- No permanent employment
- No more than 2 years of work experience
- Age between 18 and 30 years
- Commitment to the full 12-month programme
- No previous YES Learnership completed
- Strong academic record
- Strong computer literacy
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to learn quickly
- Good time management
- Ability to work in a team
- Positive attitude
Additional tertiary qualifications will be an advantage.
However, Grade 12 remains the key minimum education requirement.
Which Locations Are Available?
Maersk has opened YES Learnership 2026/2027 opportunities in two locations.
The available opportunities are:
- Johannesburg — Reference: R185769
- Cape Town — Reference: R185767
Candidates should choose the location that best matches where they can realistically work during the programme.
Because the programme is site-based, applicants should consider transport, distance and availability before submitting.
Why Is This Learnership Worth Considering?
This opportunity is useful for young people who want practical workplace exposure.
It gives learners a chance to enter a global logistics environment and understand how business functions support daily operations.
In addition, learners can develop workplace habits that may help them in future roles.
The strongest candidates will show readiness, discipline and a genuine interest in learning.
The programme can also help learners move from school or limited experience into a more professional environment.
What Skills Can Help Applicants Stand Out?
Maersk highlights several personal and workplace skills that matter.
Applicants should show that they can communicate clearly, manage time well and work with others.
They should also show a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Computer literacy is important because many business support tasks involve digital systems, emails, records and documents.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Before submitting your application, update your CV so it clearly shows your Grade 12 results, computer skills, short courses, volunteer work and any customer service or admin exposure. Even small experience can help recruiters see that you are ready for a professional workplace.
How Should Candidates Prepare Before Submitting?
Candidates should prepare their information before starting the online application.
This can make the process easier and reduce mistakes.
Applicants should have:
- Updated CV
- Copy of ID
- Grade 12 / Matric Certificate
- Any additional qualification documents, if available
- Correct contact number
- Active email address
Also, candidates should check spelling, dates and uploaded documents before submitting.
A neat application can show that the candidate is organised and serious about the opportunity.
How Do Candidates Submit Their Application?
Applications must be completed online through the official Maersk careers platform.
Candidates should select the correct location before submitting.
Applications for Johannesburg must be submitted through the official Johannesburg online application portal.
Applications for Cape Town must be submitted through the official Cape Town online application portal.
When Is the Closing Date?
The official advert does not show a closing date.
Therefore, candidates should submit as soon as possible while the application links are still active.
Waiting too long can be risky because online opportunities may close once enough applications have been received.
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Final Thoughts
The Maersk YES Learnership 2026/2027 offers young South Africans a valuable chance to gain real workplace exposure in a global logistics environment.
The programme runs for 12 months and focuses on practical experience, business support, teamwork and customer-focused operations.
Candidates who meet the requirements should prepare their documents early and submit their application through the correct location portal.
