Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027 Intake Opens

Are you an unemployed South African youth looking to gain valuable workplace experience and kick-start your career in logistics? Global logistics leader Maersk has officially opened applications for its YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027 intake, offering young people an opportunity to gain practical skills and professional exposure within one of the world’s leading supply chain and logistics companies.

The 12-month programme is available in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town and is designed to help unemployed youth gain meaningful workplace experience while developing skills that are highly valued by employers.

What Is the Maersk YES Learnership Programme?

The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a South African initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment by creating workplace opportunities for young people who struggle to gain practical experience.

The Maersk YES Learnership Programme combines structured learning with practical workplace exposure, enabling participants to:

• Gain practical work experience
• Develop workplace and professional skills
• Improve employability
• Build professional networks
• Develop confidence in a corporate environment
• Understand customer-focused business operations
• Gain exposure to global logistics and supply chain operations

Successful applicants will be placed within various Maersk offices and operational sites across South Africa.

What Will Learners Do?

During the 12-month programme, participants will work across different business units and departments depending on operational requirements.

Learners may gain exposure to:

• Administration
• Customer service
• Business support functions
• Operations
• Logistics coordination
• Supply chain activities
• Data capturing
• Office administration
• Documentation management
• Communication and reporting

Participants will work alongside experienced professionals who will provide guidance and mentorship throughout the programme.

Skills Maersk Is Looking For

Strong Computer Literacy

Applicants should be comfortable using:

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Email systems
• Online platforms
• Basic office software

Good Communication Skills

Successful candidates should be able to:

• Communicate clearly and professionally
• Write effectively
• Interact confidently with colleagues and customers

Ability to Learn Quickly

The logistics industry is dynamic and fast-paced. Applicants should demonstrate:

• Curiosity
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving abilities
• Willingness to learn

Good Time Management Skills

Learners should be able to:

• Meet deadlines
• Prioritise tasks effectively
• Manage workloads efficiently

Teamwork and Collaboration

Applicants should be comfortable:

• Working with others
• Sharing ideas
• Supporting team objectives
• Collaborating across departments

Positive Attitude

Maersk values candidates who are:

• Enthusiastic
• Professional
• Reliable
• Self-motivated
• Eager to develop their careers

Why Consider a Career in Logistics?

Logistics is one of the fastest-growing industries globally and plays a critical role in international trade and business operations.

Career opportunities in the industry include:

• Logistics Coordinator
• Supply Chain Administrator
• Operations Controller
• Customer Service Representative
• Warehouse Supervisor
• Procurement Officer
• Shipping Coordinator
• Freight Specialist
• Distribution Planner
• Import and Export Administrator

The experience gained through the Maersk YES Learnership can help open doors to these exciting career opportunities.

Benefits of Joining the Programme

Valuable Workplace Experience

Employers consistently seek candidates with practical work experience. This programme helps bridge the gap between education and employment.

Professional Development

Learners will develop:

• Communication skills
• Business etiquette
• Workplace professionalism
• Customer service capabilities
• Administrative skills

Industry Exposure

Participants will gain exposure to:

• Global trade
• Logistics operations
• Supply chain management
• International business practices

Improved Employability

Completing the programme demonstrates:

• Commitment
• Reliability
• Work readiness
• Professional growth

These qualities can significantly improve future employment prospects.

Locations Available

Johannesburg

South Africa’s economic hub provides exposure to major business and logistics operations.

Durban

Home to one of Africa’s busiest ports, Durban offers excellent opportunities to gain shipping and logistics experience.

Cape Town

Cape Town is a major trade and logistics centre with extensive international business activity and supply chain operations.

Applicants should apply for opportunities in locations where they are willing and able to work.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Essential Requirements

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must have completed Grade 12 (Matric)
• Must be unemployed
• Must be between 18 and 30 years old
• Must not have participated in a YES Programme previously
• Must not be permanently employed
• Must have less than two years of work experience
• Must be willing to commit to the full 12-month programme

Additional Qualifications That May Strengthen Your Application

Although Matric is the minimum requirement, additional qualifications may provide an advantage during the selection process.

Examples include:

• Higher Certificates
• Diplomas
• Degrees
• TVET qualifications
• Business-related certificates
• Logistics qualifications
• Supply chain qualifications
• Administration qualifications

Having a tertiary qualification does not guarantee selection but may improve your competitiveness.

How to Apply for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027

Location : Johannesburg

Apply here online for Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027

Location : Durban

Apply here online for Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027

Location : Cape Town

Apply here online for Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027

Closing date: Not specified