Eskom YES Youth Employment Programme 2026 – 12-Month Work Opportunity
Eskom, South Africa’s leading electricity and energy provider, is inviting unemployed youth to apply for the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 within its Retail Department in the Western Cape. This initiative forms part of the national public-private partnership aimed at reducing youth unemployment by providing meaningful work experience to young South Africans.
The programme offers a 12-month fixed-term contract that allows successful applicants to gain hands-on workplace exposure in the energy and utilities sector. This opportunity is ideal for youth who are eager to enter the job market, build professional skills, and improve their long-term employability.
About the YES Programme at Eskom
The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative was created to help young people gain their first formal work experience. Eskom participates in this national programme by opening positions across its operations, offering structured training, mentorship, and real job responsibilities.
Successful candidates will work in Eskom’s Distribution – Cape Coastal Cluster within the Retail Department. Participants will gain experience in customer service, operations support, administrative tasks, and energy service environments.
This programme is designed to prepare youth for permanent employment opportunities in both public and private sectors.
Position Overview
Programme Name: Eskom YES Youth Employment Programme
Industry: Electricity, Energy & Utilities
Department: Retail – Western Cape Distribution
Contract Duration: 12 months (Fixed Term)
Remuneration: Market related stipend
Reference Number: eskom_003088
Work Locations
Successful candidates may be placed in the following areas:
• George (Garden Route)
• Worcester (Boland Sector)
• Grabouw, Somerset West, Polkadraai (Helderberg Sector)
• Caledon (Overberg Sector)
• Khayelitsha
• Bellville and Kraaifontein (Tableview Sector)
• Malmesbury, Vredenburg, Vredendal (West Coast Sector)
Placements will depend on operational needs and candidate availability.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is aimed at unemployed South African youth who meet the following criteria:
• Aged between 18 and 34 years
• South African citizen
• Completed Grade 12 or post-matric qualification
• Not studying full time during the programme year
• Not previously registered or participated in the YES initiative
• Not permanently employed by a single employer for more than one year
This programme is especially suitable for young people seeking their first professional workplace experience.
Key Responsibilities
Participants in the YES Programme will assist with various retail and operational support tasks, which may include:
• Supporting customer service operations
• Assisting with administrative duties
• Handling basic enquiries and service requests
• Supporting energy service processes
• Maintaining accurate records
• Working with operational teams to improve service delivery
The exact responsibilities may vary depending on placement location.
Required Personal Qualities
Eskom is looking for youth who demonstrate:
• Integrity and honesty
• Professional behaviour
• Strong customer service focus
• Willingness to learn
• Reliability and responsibility
• Teamwork and communication skills
These qualities are essential for success in a professional workplace environment.
Why Join the Eskom YES Programme?
This opportunity offers numerous benefits, including:
✔ Practical workplace experience in a major national utility
✔ Development of professional and administrative skills
✔ Improved employability after programme completion
✔ Exposure to the energy and utilities sector
✔ A monthly stipend for financial support
✔ Mentorship and structured learning
Many YES participants go on to secure permanent roles, internships, or further training after completing the programme.
Employment Equity
Eskom is committed to transformation and diversity. Appointments will be made in line with the company’s employment equity plan, and candidates from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. Persons living with disabilities are also welcome to submit applications.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through Eskom’s official recruitment platform using the reference number eskom_003088 before the closing date.
Closing Date: 23 March 2026
Ensure that your application includes:
• Updated CV
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of qualifications
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Important Notes
• If you are not contacted within 28 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful
• Eskom reserves the right not to make an appointment
• Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria
Final Thoughts
The Eskom YES Youth Employment Programme 2026 offers a powerful opportunity for unemployed youth in the Western Cape to gain valuable work experience within South Africa’s vital energy sector. With structured support, real job exposure, and a 12-month contract, this programme can serve as a strong foundation for future career success.
If you are motivated, eager to learn, and ready to begin your professional journey, this is an opportunity worth applying for.
Submit your application early and take your first step toward a brighter future.