L’Oréal Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Young Professionals in Training (YPT) Graduate Trainee Programme vacancies. The closing date for applications is the 30 th of September 2025.
Get Started with L’Oréal’s Graduate Trainee Programme
L’Oréal South Africa is opening its doors to bright, recent graduates who want to launch a career in the world of beauty and science. The Young Professionals in Training (YPT) Graduate Trainee Programme 2025/2026 gives students real hands‑on experience, mentors who care, and the chance to work on projects that shape the future of beauty worldwide.
If you love combining creativity with smart business ideas, L’Oréal is the place to start a global career that matters.
What the Programme Looks Like
The L’Oréal Graduate Trainee Programme isn’t a normal internship. It’s a full‑time, management‑focused training that lasts 12 to 24 months, depending on the role. You’ll move between departments, work on big projects, and learn from seasoned managers. Every trainee follows a clear learning schedule and is supported by mentors who help you grow both at work and as a person.
Jobs Now Open
Below are the two main roles we’re hiring for. Pick the one that matches your degree.
Graduate Management Trainee – R&I (Research & Innovation)
- Who it’s for: If you’re passionate about new products, sustainability, and turning ideas into real things, this role is perfect.
- What you need: A recent degree in one of the following:
- Marketing
- E‑Commerce
- Supply Chain Management
- Transport Logistics
- Logistics Management
- Operations Management
- Finance
- Research and Innovation (R&I)
- Sustainability or Business Administration
- Key skills:
- Good at looking at data and explaining results
- Curious about how to keep the planet happy while making new beauty products
- Creative, open to change, and ready to try new things
Advanced Research Intern
- Who it’s for: If science is your passion and you want to test and develop new ingredients or products, this is for you.
- What you need: A Master’s degree or higher in a science subject such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Botany or Ethnobotany
- Geology or Geochemistry
- Or a similar scientific field
- What you’ll do:
- Run lab tests and experiments
- Work with teams around the world to create new products
- Help design eco‑friendly products that meet consumers’ needs
- Turn scientific results into friendly, usable products
Why L’Oréal is a Great Choice
- Global Experience: You’ll collaborate with experts from different countries and learn how a leading beauty company works worldwide.
- Hands‑On Projects: No fluff‑talk – you’ll be making real decisions, handling projects that affect L’Oréal’s biggest brands.
- Career Growth: Structured coaching, leadership lessons, and clear paths to move up inside the company.
- Real Impact: You’ll help build beauty products that also take care of the planet and support a more inclusive world.
Who Can Apply
- Must be a South African citizen or legally allowed to work here.
- Must be currently unemployed and free to be part of the programme for the full period.
- Must have just finished the required degree for the role you’re applying for.
- Must have a strong drive, creativity, and a genuine interest in innovation and sustainability.
How to Apply for the YPT Programme
Follow these simple steps to make sure your application gets through.
Step 1 – Gather Your Documents
- A certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your degree certificates and full transcripts
- Your CV (up to 3 pages)
- A short letter (motivation letter) telling us why you want the role and what you hope to learn
Step 2 – Submit Your Application
- Graduate Management Trainee – R&I
Click here to apply: Apply Online for the Graduate Management Trainee R&I Programme - Advanced Research Intern
Click here to apply: Apply Online for the Advanced Research Internship Programme
Make sure you choose the right role that matches the degree you hold.
Step 3 – Wait for Your Call
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. If you don’t hear from us within 30 days after the closing date, it’s best to consider your application unsuccessful and keep trying with other opportunities.
Where and How Long You’ll Work
The programme runs for 12 to 24 months, depending on your chosen role. You will work out of L’Oréal’s South Africa offices, where you’ll get trainers, mentors, and real projects to work on.
Deadline for Applications
The official closing date for applications will be announced soon, but you should aim to submit your application early. Spots are limited and highly competitive, so getting your application in early gives you the best chance.
Take the First Step Toward a Global Future
The L’Oréal Young Professionals in Training (YPT) Graduate Trainee Programme 2025/2026 is a chance for ambitious students to start their careers with one of the world’s best companies. You can turn your curiosity and passion into a real job, work with global leaders in beauty and science, and influence future sustainable innovation.
Ready to level up? Submit your application now and begin a journey where creativity meets global impact.