DHL Supply Chain Is Hiring Youth for the YES Programme
DHL Supply Chain South Africa is offering an exciting opportunity for young South Africans through the YES for Youth Programme. This initiative is part of DHL’s commitment to developing future talent and empowering unemployed youth with valuable workplace experience. As one of the world’s largest logistics companies, DHL provides a professional environment where participants can gain new skills, improve their employability, and contribute to a company known for excellence, global reach, and innovation.
About DHL Supply Chain and the Global DHL Group
DHL is part of the Deutsche Post DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics and mail company. With operations in over 220 countries and territories, DHL is a global leader in contract logistics, courier services, international express delivery, freight forwarding, and eCommerce solutions. The company employs hundreds of thousands of people worldwide and is well known for its focus on service, safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
Working with DHL means joining a company that uses the power of global trade to connect people, support communities, and improve lives. DHL Supply Chain South Africa operates within this global framework, providing world-class logistics solutions to major clients and industries across the country.
Role Overview
DHL Supply Chain is searching for three individuals to join its YES Youth programme at its Pietermaritzburg operations. Candidates must be hardworking, eager to learn, and ready to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced logistics environment. The role is temporary, but it comes with structured training, mentorship, and exposure to real workplace responsibilities.
This opportunity is ideal for young people who want to build their work readiness, understand warehouse and logistics operations, and develop themselves professionally.
Key Responsibilities
YES participants will be expected to:
- Follow client requirements and ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
- Learn the correct use of warehouse equipment, reporting any faults or defects promptly.
- Report non-conformities involving customer merchandise, ensuring proper documentation and communication.
- Work within designated operational areas, as directed by supervisors and based on business needs.
- Load and offload goods according to delivery procedures, ensuring safety and compliance.
- Follow standard operating procedures and maintain safe working practices at all times.
- Support team leaders and managers by carrying out instructions fully and professionally.
These tasks provide practical exposure to logistical processes, safety requirements, and customer service expectations within a global business.
Candidate Requirements
To qualify for the DHL YES Programme, applicants must meet the following:
- Matric (Grade 12) with English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – essential.
- Must be a BBBEE candidate.
- South African citizens only may apply.
- Must be unemployed youth aged 18–29.
- A valid Code 08 driver’s license is an advantage but not compulsory.
- A valid Forklift or Reach Truck license is beneficial.
- Applicants must submit:
- A CV
- A certified copy of their South African ID
- A certified copy of their Matric certificate
These requirements ensure that shortlisted candidates are eligible for the YES programme, which aims to create work experience opportunities for young South Africans who previously faced barriers to employment.
DHL Competencies and Skills
Participants must be willing to grow, learn, and adapt. Some of the key competencies associated with the role include:
- Analytical thinking and problem solving
- Strong relationship-building skills
- Customer-service focus and the ability to understand customer needs
- Commitment to quality and continuous improvement
- Ability to align tasks with team and organizational goals
- Clear communication and willingness to receive feedback
- Openness to developing new skills and improving performance
- Taking responsibility for personal growth and career development
These competencies are essential in the logistics sector, where accuracy, efficiency, teamwork, and consistent performance play a major role in operational success.
Why This Programme Matters
The YES Programme provides young job seekers with their first real exposure to a corporate environment. Participants gain:
- Practical workplace experience
- Training on equipment, safety standards, and operational processes
- Mentorship from experienced logistics professionals
- A stronger CV and higher employability after completion
- Insight into one of the world’s most advanced logistics organisations
For young people in Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas, this is an opportunity to begin building a career in one of the fastest-growing global industries.
Final Thoughts
DHL Supply Chain’s participation in the YES Youth Programme demonstrates its ongoing commitment to supporting South Africa’s youth and contributing to economic growth. This opportunity is perfect for motivated young individuals ready to learn, adapt, and take on new responsibilities. The experience gained at DHL can open doors to future employment in warehousing, logistics, transport, supply chain management, and related fields.