Empowering Youth: Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2025 – Gain Life-Changing Experience in Mpumalanga’s Energy Sector! Apply by 19 September for 12-Month Contracts Nationwide
Are you a motivated young South African aged 18-34, eager to kickstart your career in the powerhouse of the nation’s electricity grid? Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd, South Africa’s leading electricity public utility and a global energy giant, is calling on unemployed youth to join the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme! This transformative initiative, led by the Presidency in partnership with business, labor, and civil society, aims to tackle the youth unemployment crisis head-on. If you’re searching for Eskom YES jobs 2025, youth internships Mpumalanga, or entry-level energy sector opportunities South Africa, this 12-month fixed-term contract at Arnot Power Station in Mpumalanga (with placements across all provinces) is your launchpad to professional growth and real-world impact.
Listing reference: eskom_000013 | Status: Online | Apply by: 19 September 2025. As of today, 18 September 2025, you have just one day left to submit—don’t delay! This YY1-graded role falls under Human Resources, offering hands-on exposure in various specializations within Eskom’s Operations divisions. From coal-fired plants like Arnot to renewable projects, you’ll contribute to powering over 50 million South Africans while building skills that employers crave. Preference goes to under-represented designated groups per Eskom’s Employment Equity Plan, and disabled candidates are warmly encouraged to apply. Key Note: No fees for applications—beware of scams. All legit opportunities are on our secure portal. For more, search “Eskom youth employment service vacancies” or “YES programme jobs Gauteng Mpumalanga” on sites like Careers24 or LinkedIn, but apply directly via https://eskomcareers.ci.hr/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=d818dff4-df4b-4f8e-8831-14b55f78a1dd.
Eskom, established in 1923 and now a cornerstone of Africa’s energy landscape, generates 95% of the country’s electricity through a diverse portfolio including 15 coal plants, nuclear, hydro, and emerging renewables. The YES Programme aligns with Eskom’s Generation Learning Academy, which has trained over 10,000 youth since inception, focusing on artisan skills, engineering, and operations. In 2025, amid efforts to stabilize supply post-load shedding eras, initiatives like this are crucial for injecting fresh talent into our workforce of 40,000+. Arnot Power Station in Mpumalanga’s coal-rich Witbank coalfield exemplifies this, producing 2,400 MW to light homes and industries nationwide. By joining, you’re not just gaining experience—you’re fueling South Africa’s just energy transition and economic recovery.
Why the Eskom YES Programme is a Game-Changer for Youth Unemployment in 2025
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate stands at a staggering 45.5% (Q2 2025 Stats SA data), but programmes like YES are beacons of hope, having created 100,000+ opportunities since 2018. Eskom’s participation underscores our commitment to social investment, with the YES initiative providing a bridge from education to employment. Unlike generic internships, this programme immerses you in the energy industry’s core—think assisting in maintenance at Arnot, supporting admin in operations, or shadowing technicians in safety protocols.
Mpumalanga, home to 80% of Eskom’s coal-fired capacity, is an epicenter for energy careers, boasting stations like Arnot, Duvha, and Kendal. Yet placements span all provinces: KwaZulu-Natal’s nuclear ops, Western Cape renewables, or Gauteng’s transmission hubs. In a sector projected to grow 3.5% annually through 2030 (driven by green hydrogen and solar), Eskom youth jobs equip you with transferable skills like project coordination, data analysis, and compliance—boosting employability by 70%, per YES impact reports.
What elevates Eskom YES opportunities? A supportive ecosystem: Mentorship from industry veterans, exposure to cutting-edge tech like smart grids, and networking with global partners. Eskom’s equity focus ensures diversity, with 60% of YES cohorts from rural areas or designated groups. No prior experience? Perfect—this is for first-timers hungry to learn. Stipends (typically R5,000–R8,000 monthly) cover basics, while the 12-month tenure builds your CV for permanent roles—many alumni secure jobs at Eskom or partners like Siemens. In 2025’s job market, where energy skills shortages hit 20,000 vacancies, this programme positions you ahead of the curve.
Detailed Programme Overview: What to Expect in the YES Role at Eskom
The Youth Employment Service (YES) at Eskom is a structured 12-month fixed-term contract, designed for holistic development. Placed in Operations across divisions (Generation, Transmission, Distribution), you’ll rotate tasks to gain breadth, starting with orientation at Arnot or your assigned site. Expect a mix of shadowing, hands-on support, and team projects, all under professional guidance.
Core Responsibilities and Daily Activities
While specializations vary, your role will emphasize learning and contribution:
- Operational Support: Assist in daily tasks like monitoring equipment, data entry for maintenance logs, or preparing reports—gaining insights into power generation cycles at facilities like Arnot’s six 400 MW units.
- Team Collaboration: Work alongside engineers and technicians, participating in safety briefings, quality checks, and minor admin to understand workflows from coal handling to turbine ops.
- Skill-Building Projects: Contribute to initiatives like energy audits, community outreach, or digital tool implementation, fostering innovation in line with Eskom’s Just Energy Transition plan.
- Professional Development: Attend workshops on integrity, professionalism, and customer focus—key behaviors for success. No full-time study allowed, ensuring full immersion.
- Compliance and Ethics: Adhere to Eskom’s code of conduct, supporting equity goals and environmental standards.
A typical week? Mornings in team huddles, afternoons on-site support, evenings for e-learning modules. Shifts align with operations (8-hour days, possible weekends), with travel stipends for non-locals. This Eskom YES job description builds resilience and expertise, preparing you for roles in utilities, engineering, or beyond.
Eligibility Criteria and Minimum Requirements for Eskom YES Applicants
Eskom seeks driven youth ready to seize this chance. Meeting these unlocks the door:
Essential Minimum Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Aged 18-34 (NEET: Not in Employment, Education, or Training).
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent; post-Matric certificate/programme advantageous (e.g., NQF Level 4 in admin or technical fields).
Key Exclusions (To Ensure Fair Access)
- No permanent employment >1 year with any single employer.
- Not enrolled in full-time studies during the programme year.
- First-time YES participant (no prior registration).
Behavioral Attributes
- Integrity: Uphold ethical standards in all tasks.
- Professionalism: Deliver reliable, high-quality support.
- Customer-Focused: Prioritize stakeholder needs in energy delivery.
No specific attributes beyond enthusiasm required—Eskom values potential. For Eskom youth programme requirements, these promote inclusivity, with accommodations for disabilities.
Rewarding Benefits and Long-Term Impact of the YES Programme
Enrolling in Eskom’s Youth Employment Service isn’t just a job—it’s an investment:
- Monthly stipend (R5,000–R8,000, tax-free) plus transport/meal allowances.
- Comprehensive training: Soft skills, technical certs (e.g., SHEQ basics), and YES-branded portfolio for future applications.
- Health coverage, wellness programs, and EAP for mental health.
- Networking: Access to Eskom’s alumni network and job fairs.
- Post-programme perks: Priority for permanent vacancies; 40% transition rate to full-time roles.
In Mpumalanga’s energy corridor, you’ll live affordably while gaining credentials that outshine peers. Eskom’s diversity commitment means tailored support for women, rural youth, and disabled participants, aligning with our 2030 equity targets.
Straightforward Application Process for Eskom YES 2025
Securing your spot is simple and online:
- Visit https://eskomcareers.ci.hr/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=d818dff4-df4b-4f8e-8831-14b55f78a1dd (cookies enabled for best experience).
- Register/login, search eskom_000013.
- Complete profile: Upload ID, Matric cert, and confirm eligibility (no prior YES/experience limits).
- Submit by 19 September 2025—recruitment includes screening and interviews.
- No response in 28 days? Application unsuccessful, but reapply next cycle.
Eskom reserves hiring rights; equity preferences apply. For queries, email recruitment@eskom.co.za.
FAQs: Answering Your Questions on Eskom YES Opportunities
Q: Can I choose my placement province? A: Placements are needs-based, but Mpumalanga-focused with nationwide options.
Q: What’s the stipend amount? A: Competitive, around R6,000/month—covers essentials during the 12 months.
Q: Is full-time study allowed alongside? A: No, to ensure full commitment; part-time OK post-programme.
Q: How does Eskom support disabled applicants? A: Reasonable accommodations per our policy, including accessible training.
Q: What if I have <1 year work experience? A: Ideal—this is for entry-level youth building their first CV.
Q: Are there extensions beyond 12 months? A: Possible into permanent roles based on performance and vacancies.
For more Eskom YES FAQs, explore our careers hub.
Ignite Your Future: Apply for Eskom’s Youth Employment Service Today – Deadline 19 September 2025!
With youth unemployment at crisis levels, the Eskom YES Programme is more than opportunity—it’s empowerment. Seize this 12-month journey at Arnot or beyond to electrify your career in South Africa’s vital energy sector. Apply now via the link—one day left! Together, we’re powering progress and possibilities. #EskomYES2025 #YouthJobsMpumalanga #EnergyInternshipsSA #EskomCareers