The Maersk YES Learnership Programme is a rare chance for unemployed South African youth to gain twelve months of real‑world experience in global logistics, but the deadline is fast approaching.
What the opportunity is
Maersk, a leading international logistics group, is looking for high‑potential young South Africans to join its Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership for 2026/2027. The one‑year, full‑time programme is based in Cape Town, Western Cape, and gives you exposure to different business functions within an international shipping and supply‑chain environment.
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
- South African citizen
- Age between 18 and 30 years
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric) – additional qualifications are optional
- Not permanently employed
- Two years or less of work experience
- Never have completed a Maersk YES Learnership before
- Able to commit to the full 12‑month, site‑based programme in Cape Town
- Good computer literacy and strong written & verbal communication skills
- Team‑player with a positive attitude and willingness to learn
What you will gain
- 12 months of structured, paid workplace experience
- Hands‑on exposure to an international logistics operation
- Development of commercial awareness, customer‑focus and operational skills
- Improved professional communication and time‑management abilities
- Experience in administrative, reporting and support tasks across various departments
- Opportunities to build a professional network within a global company
Note: Completion of the learnership does not guarantee a permanent contract.
Key programme details
- Company: Maersk
- Programme: YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027
- Job requisition number: R185767
- Employment type: Full‑time, site‑based
- Duration: 12 months
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
- Application deadline: 31 July 2026
- Application method: Online
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the official vacancy page: Maersk YES Learnership 2026/2027 – Cape Town.
- Click “Apply” and sign in or create a candidate profile.
- Enter your personal details and answer the screening questions.
- Upload an updated CV that highlights your education, any work experience and relevant skills.
- Attach required documents: South African ID copy, Grade 12 certificate, and any tertiary qualifications you hold.
- Review all information for accuracy.
- Submit the application before 31 July 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to the learnership – emphasise computer skills, customer‑service orientation and teamwork examples.
- Proofread your application for spelling and grammar errors; clear communication matters.
- Ensure all required documents are clear, legible scans.
- Submit early – late‑day submissions can suffer from technical glitches.
- Prepare a short, honest statement about why you want to work in logistics and how the learnership fits your career goals.
- Research Maersk’s core values (safety, respect, integrity, and constant improvement) and reflect them in your answers.
Final thoughts
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready for a year of intensive learning, the Maersk YES Learnership could be a valuable stepping stone into the logistics and global trade sector. Gather your documents, polish your CV, and apply before the 31 July 2026 deadline. Good luck!
