Maersk YES Learnerships 2026/2027: Your Guide to Applying in Cape Town

Are you a young South African looking to gain valuable work experience in the logistics and global trade industry? Maersk, a world-leading integrated container logistics company, is offering an exciting opportunity through its Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme for 2026/2027 in Cape Town. This program is designed to equip unemployed youth with practical skills and workplace readiness, setting them on a path for future career success. If you have completed Grade 12 and are eager to learn, this learnership could be your first step into a dynamic international environment.

Understanding the Maersk YES Learnership Programme

The Maersk YES Learnership Programme is a structured, 12-month, full-time opportunity based in Cape Town. It provides participants with hands-on experience across various business functions within Maersk. The program aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by offering practical exposure in an international logistics setting. Learners will support daily operations, develop professional skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the global trade landscape. This initiative is specifically for young South Africans looking to build a foundation for their careers.

Key Details of the Learnership

• Company: Maersk
• Programme: YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027
• Job Requisition Number: R185767
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Work Arrangement: Site-based
• Programme Duration: 12 months
• Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 or Matric
• Age Requirement: 18 to 30 years
• Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
• Closing Date: 31 July 2026
• Application Method: Online

Purpose and Benefits of the Learnership

The primary goal of the Maersk YES Learnership Programme is to provide unemployed youth with structured workplace experience. It focuses on developing essential skills that are highly valued in the logistics and global trade sectors. Participants will gain workplace readiness, cultivate customer-focused thinking, and build commercial awareness. The program also emphasizes operational skills, teamwork, professional communication, and time management. By immersing learners in a professional environment, Maersk aims to foster continuous learning and prepare them for future employment opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Age: Must be between 18 and 30 years old.
• Education: Must have completed Grade 12 or Matric.
• Employment Status: Must not be permanently employed.
• Work Experience: Must have no more than two years of previous work experience.
• Commitment: Must be available for the entire 12-month duration of the programme.
• Previous Learnerships: Must not have completed a YES Learnership before.
• Academic Record: Should possess a strong academic record.
• Skills: Must have strong computer literacy and good written and verbal communication skills.
• Attitude: Must demonstrate a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

While additional tertiary qualifications are advantageous, they are not mandatory. The program is designed for individuals who need foundational workplace exposure.

Applying with Grade 12: Is It Possible?

Yes, absolutely. Grade 12 or Matric is the minimum educational qualification required for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme. This means that if you have successfully completed your matriculation, you meet the basic academic requirement. Applicants who have pursued further studies beyond Grade 12 are also welcome to apply, provided they fulfill all other eligibility criteria. The program is structured to welcome individuals at this foundational educational level, offering them a chance to build practical experience.

Work Experience Considerations

The Maersk YES Learnership Programme is specifically designed for young individuals who have limited work experience. This ensures that the opportunity is accessible to those who need it most for career entry. Applicants must not be permanently employed and should have accumulated no more than two years of prior work experience. Furthermore, individuals who have already completed a YES Learnership are not eligible to reapply. This focus on limited work history helps Maersk identify and support candidates who are truly seeking entry-level exposure.

Typical Learner Responsibilities

Learners placed within the Maersk YES Programme will support various business functions. The specific duties can vary depending on the department or operational site. Common responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with administrative tasks.
• Capturing and maintaining business data.
• Supporting customer service interactions.
• Preparing basic reports and documents.
• Providing assistance to operational teams.
• Communicating effectively with colleagues and customers.
• Coordinating routine workplace activities.
• Supporting logistics and supply chain operations.
• Adhering to company procedures and guidelines.
• Participating actively in team meetings and learning sessions.

These tasks provide a well-rounded introduction to the operational aspects of a global logistics company.

What You Will Gain from the Programme

Successful candidates in the Maersk YES Learnership Programme can expect to gain a wealth of experience and skills over the 12 months. This includes:

• Practical Workplace Experience: Twelve months of hands-on learning in a professional setting.
• Industry Exposure: Insight into an international logistics company and the global trade sector.
• Structured Learning: A guided development path with clear learning objectives.
• Customer Focus: Experience in a business environment that prioritizes customer satisfaction.
• Professional Skills: Development of communication, time management, and teamwork abilities.
• Operational Knowledge: Exposure to administrative and operational tasks within logistics.
• Networking Opportunities: Building connections within the industry.
• Workplace Readiness: Enhanced preparedness for future employment.

It is important to note that this programme does not automatically guarantee permanent employment upon completion.

Essential Skills and Competencies

Maersk looks for candidates who demonstrate a strong set of skills and a positive attitude. These include:

• Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using common computer software.
• Communication: Good written and verbal communication abilities.
• Learning Agility: A quick ability to grasp new concepts and skills.
• Time Management: Effective organization and prioritization of tasks.
• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with others.
• Positive Attitude: Enthusiasm and a proactive approach to work.
• Professionalism: Maintaining appropriate conduct in the workplace.
• Reliability: Being dependable and punctual.
• Customer Focus: Understanding and addressing customer needs.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying and addressing challenges.
• Feedback Reception: Willingness to accept constructive criticism.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

These competencies are crucial for success in the learnership and beyond.

Documents Required for Application

Prospective applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV detailing your educational background and any previous work experience.
• Identity Document: A copy of your South African identity document.
• Grade 12 Certificate: A copy of your Grade 12 or Matric certificate.
• Tertiary Qualifications: Copies of any post-matric qualifications, if applicable.
• Academic Records: Transcripts or academic records, if requested.
• Additional Documents: Any other documents specified by the online application portal.

Ensure all information on your CV is accurate and up-to-date, especially your contact details.

How to Apply for the Maersk YES Learnership

Applications for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme must be submitted online through the official Maersk recruitment portal.

1. Visit the Maersk careers page and search for the specific learnership.
2. Create a candidate profile or log in if you already have one.
3. Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly.
4. Upload all required supporting documents, including your CV and certificates.
5. Carefully review all the information you have entered before submitting.
6. Submit your application before the closing date of 31 July 2026.

Use the job title “YES Learnership 2026/2027 – Cape Town” and requisition number “R185767” to find the correct vacancy.

Learnership Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme is 31 July 2026. It is advisable to submit your application well before this date. Applying early can help you avoid any last-minute technical issues or the possibility of missing the deadline due to high application volumes. Make sure all your documents are ready and your application is complete before the final submission.

Important Advice Before Applying

Before you submit your application, take a moment to confirm that you meet all the essential requirements:

• Are you between 18 and 30 years old?
• Have you completed Grade 12?
• Are you currently not permanently employed?
• Do you have two years or less of work experience?
• Have you not completed a YES Learnership previously?
• Can you commit to the full 12-month programme?
• Are you able to work on-site in Cape Town?
• Are your CV and supporting documents prepared and ready?
• Will your application be submitted before 31 July 2026?

Meeting these minimum requirements is necessary, but it does not guarantee selection. The selection process will likely involve further assessments.

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