Eskom Learner Plant Operator Vacancies 2026

Eskom Learner Plant Operator Vacancies 2026: 17 Opportunities Available
Eskom has advertised 17 Learner Plant Operator opportunities for South African citizens interested in gaining practical experience in the electricity and power-generation sector. The opportunities are located at Kendal Power Station and Kriel Power Station and combine institutionalised learning with practical workplace exposure.
These positions may suit candidates with Grade 12, N3, NCV Level 4, or relevant National N4 to N6 technical qualifications, provided they meet the specified subject and percentage requirements.
Eskom Learner Plant Operator Vacancies 2026
There are 17 positions in total across the two advertised programmes.
Learner Plant Operator x7 – Kendal Power Station
- Position: Learner Plant Operator
- Number of positions: 7
- Reference: eskom_006432
- Position/Task Grade: L5
- Department: Operating
- Business Unit: Kendal Power Station
- Contract: Apprenticeship
- Remuneration: Market Related
- Closing date: 1 September 2026
Learner Plant Operators x10 – Kriel Power Station
- Position: Learner Plant Operator
- Number of positions: 10
- Reference: eskom_006503
- Position/Task Grade: L5
- Department: Operating
- Business Unit: Kriel Power Station
- Contract: Internship
- Remuneration: Market Related
- Closing date: 28 August 2026
Together, the two programmes provide 17 Learner Plant Operator opportunities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must be South African citizens and meet at least one of the following educational requirements:
Grade 12 / Matric
Candidates with Grade 12 must have achieved:
- Mathematics: 50%
- Physical Science: 50%
- English: 40%
N3 Qualification
Candidates with an N3 qualification may apply with:
- Mathematics: 50%
- Science: 50%
- English: 40%
NCV Level 4
Applicants with NCV Level 4 may qualify with:
- Mathematics: 50%
- Science: 50%
- English: 40%
National N4/N5
Candidates with a National N4 or N5 Certificate with Trade Subjects may also be considered.
National N6
Applicants holding a National N6 Certificate with Trade Subjects may also qualify.
The information provided does not list specific previous work experience as a minimum requirement.
Training and Development
One of the main features of these Eskom opportunities is the combination of institutionalised training and on-the-job training.
Successful candidates will have an opportunity to gain practical workplace exposure while developing their knowledge and skills within Eskom’s operating environment.
This type of training can provide useful experience for individuals interested in careers related to:
- Electricity generation
- Power stations
- Plant operations
- Energy
- Technical operations
- Engineering environments
Learners should be prepared to participate actively in training and follow workplace procedures and instructions.
Skills and Personal Attributes
Eskom identifies several personal and behavioural qualities that candidates should demonstrate.
These include:
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Customer focus
- Teamwork
- Good communication
- Interpersonal skills
- Negotiation skills
- Liaising skills
- Politeness
- Promptness
- Energy and enthusiasm
- Self-starter attitude
- Assertiveness
Applicants should also be prepared to work according to Eskom’s policies and procedures.
Who Can Apply?
These opportunities may be suitable for South African citizens who have completed the required academic or technical qualifications and want to gain practical experience in the energy sector.
Applicants should carefully check their qualifications and marks against the requirements before submitting an application.
The two vacancies have different reference numbers and closing dates, so candidates should ensure that they apply for the correct programme.
Closing Dates
There are two different closing dates:
Kriel Power Station: 28 August 2026
Kendal Power Station: 1 September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the relevant deadline rather than waiting until the final day.
Important Application Information
Candidates should quote the correct reference number when applying:
- Kendal Power Station: eskom_006432
- Kriel Power Station: eskom_006503
Applicants should also ensure that all information supplied during the recruitment process is accurate and that they meet the stated qualification requirements.
Eskom is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Applicants who have not been contacted within 28 days after the applicable closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Why Consider the Eskom Learner Plant Operator Programme?
For candidates interested in the electricity and energy industry, these opportunities can provide valuable exposure to a major power-generation environment.
The combination of theoretical and practical training can help learners develop workplace skills while gaining an understanding of operational processes within a power station.
The experience may also help successful learners build a foundation for future opportunities in technical and operational careers.
Final Thoughts
The Eskom Learner Plant Operator vacancies 2026 offer 17 opportunities across Kendal and Kriel Power Stations.
Candidates with Grade 12, N3, NCV Level 4, National N4/N5 or National N6 with relevant trade subjects may qualify, depending on whether they meet the specific requirements.
If you meet the requirements, carefully review the relevant vacancy, use the correct reference number and submit your application before the applicable closing date.
Kriel closes: 28 August 2026
Kendal closes: 1 September 2026
How to Apply
Click here to apply for Learner Plant Operator x7 posts
Click here to apply for Learner Plant Operator x10 posts
Skhumbuzo Shandu is the founder of Careers With Shandu, a platform dedicated to helping South Africans access job opportunities, learnerships, and career development resources.







