Many South African industrial engineering graduates are looking for a solid start in the logistics world – A.P. Moller – Maersk is offering a 12‑month graduate programme that could be your bridge into contract logistics, and the spots are filling fast.
What the opportunity is
The Maersk Contract Logistics Industrial Engineering Graduate Programme 2027 is a full‑time, site‑based development programme lasting 12 months. It runs in three South African cities – Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban – and gives you hands‑on experience in warehouse operations, process improvement, data analysis, logistics solution design and continuous‑improvement projects. Salary or stipend details have not been disclosed, and the closing date for applications has not been set, so apply as soon as possible.
Who can apply (requirements & eligibility)
- South African citizen.
- Hold an Industrial Engineering degree, or be in your final year of an Industrial Engineering degree.
- Strong academic record (no specific percentage required).
- Interest in logistics and supply‑chain operations.
- Analytical, problem‑solving and process‑thinking skills.
- Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
- Good communication, interpersonal, time‑management and adaptability skills.
What you will gain (benefits & skills)
- Practical experience in contract logistics and warehousing (cross‑dock, ambient and cold‑chain).
- Hands‑on work with process‑improvement tools, Lean, 5S and Kaizen.
- Data‑collection, validation, time‑study and productivity analysis.
- Exposure to Warehouse Management Systems, KPI reporting and digital dashboards.
- Experience in logistics solution design – layout planning, material flow and capacity calculation.
- Mentorship, structured feedback and professional development sessions.
- Opportunity to complete a capstone project that showcases a real‑world improvement case.
Note: Permanent employment after the programme is not guaranteed.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Decide which city you want to work in – Johannesburg (Randjespark, Midrand), Cape Town or Durban.
- Note the relevant reference number:
- Johannesburg – R202209
- Cape Town – R202218
- Durban – R202217
- Prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV (highlight any logistics, engineering or project work).
- Proof of South African citizenship (ID or passport).
- Academic transcripts or proof of final‑year status.
- Copy of any relevant certifications (e.g., MS Office).
- Click the appropriate official link and complete the online application:
- Johannesburg – Apply for Johannesburg
- Cape Town – Apply for Cape Town
- Durban – Apply for Durban
- Double‑check that all information (name, contact details, academic data) is correct before you hit submit.
- Keep a copy of your application confirmation for future reference.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to the role – emphasise any warehousing, supply‑chain or improvement project experience.
- Write a concise cover letter that explains why logistics excites you and how your engineering background adds value.
- Highlight specific software skills (e.g., Excel pivot tables, basic data visualisation).
- Proofread for spelling and grammar – a clean application shows attention to detail.
- If you’re still studying, attach a provisional grade sheet or a letter from your university confirming your final‑year status.
- Research Maersk’s core values (safety, teamwork, customer focus) and reflect them in your answers.
Next steps
Start gathering your documents today and decide which city fits your lifestyle best. Apply through the official Maersk link for your chosen location and submit before the vacancy closes. Even if you don’t get a contract after the programme, the experience and network you build will be valuable for a future career in logistics or engineering.
