South Africa’s youth have a powerful opportunity knocking at their door in 2026. SGS, the global leader in inspection, testing, and certification services, has announced its Civil Engineering Learnership Programme through the Youth Employment Service (YES). This opportunity, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is specifically targeted at unemployed South African youth with a qualification in civil engineering. Civil Engineering YES Learnership Programme 2026
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!If you’re a recent graduate or young professional struggling to find that first break in the engineering field, this YES Learnership could be your pathway to gaining hands-on industry experience with a reputable global company. SGS is known worldwide for its quality and integrity, making this learnership a significant boost to your career profile.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about this exciting learnership—from eligibility criteria and key responsibilities to how to prepare your application and what to expect during the programme.
What is the SGS YES Civil Engineering Learnership Programme?
The SGS YES Civil Engineering Learnership is a structured internship designed to help young South Africans gain practical experience in the field and laboratory aspects of civil engineering. It is part of the broader Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which aims to reduce youth unemployment by creating work opportunities that provide real skills and work experience.
Key Details at a Glance:
- Programme Name: SGS YES Civil Engineering Learnership Programme 2026
- Location: Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, South Africa
- Eligibility: South African citizens, aged 18-30, unemployed, with NQF 4/Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Employment Type: Learnership (internship) under YES Programme
- Relocation: Willingness to relocate to Nelspruit required
- Focus Areas: Fieldwork, laboratory testing, sample collection, quality control, safety compliance
Why Choose SGS?
Before applying, it’s important to understand the prestige and significance of SGS in the global market:
- SGS is the world’s largest and most trusted inspection, verification, testing, and certification company.
- The company operates more than 2,600 laboratories and offices worldwide.
- SGS employs over 97,000 professionals across various industries such as mining, construction, agriculture, food safety, pharmaceuticals, and environmental services.
- Working with SGS adds immense value to your CV, as recruiters recognize the company’s strict adherence to global standards and quality assurance.
A learnership with SGS exposes you to real-world engineering challenges and equips you with skills that significantly increase your employability.
What Will You Do as a Civil Engineering Learner?
This learnership isn’t about just sitting in an office. It offers hands-on experience in the civil engineering field, giving you exposure to tasks that will build your skills and confidence.
Typical Responsibilities Include:
Fieldwork:
- Conducting density and layer sampling
- Collecting stockpile samples
- Handling and manufacturing concrete cubes
- Performing Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) tests
- Conducting sand patch tests
- Ring and ball tests for road surfaces
- Viscosity tests for concrete, asphalt, and seals
Laboratory Testing:
- Preparing and testing material samples
- Accurately performing testing methods and calculations
- Assisting with quality control procedures to meet SGS standards
Safety and Compliance:
- Reporting irregularities and deviations promptly
- Following safety protocols to maintain a safe work environment
- Cleaning and maintaining the work area to comply with company standards
General Support:
- Assisting supervisors with various engineering-related tasks as needed
- Developing flexibility and problem-solving skills essential for engineers
Who Should Apply?
SGS has clear eligibility criteria for applicants. If you meet the following conditions, this could be your chance:
- South African citizen
- Age: Between 18 and 30 years
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Hold a minimum qualification of NQF 4 or Diploma in Civil Engineering
- No previous criminal convictions
- Willingness to relocate to Nelspruit
Bonus Skills That Strengthen Your Application:
- Experience with sample collection and preparation (preferred but not mandatory)
- Engineering-related calculations and quality control knowledge
- Computer literacy with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Strong analytical and research abilities
- Attention to detail and organizational skills
- Physical fitness for field and lab work
- Ability to work independently and follow instructions
Benefits of the SGS YES Learnership
- Gain valuable practical experience in both fieldwork and laboratory testing.
- Work for a globally respected company that will look excellent on your CV.
- Build a network of industry contacts that could help in future job searches.
- Develop technical and soft skills needed in civil engineering roles.
- Receive mentorship and supervision from experienced professionals.
- Enhance your chance of full-time employment after completion.
How to Prepare for the Application
Landing a position in the SGS YES Learnership is competitive, so preparation is key. Here are actionable tips:
- Update Your CV: Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or practical experience related to civil engineering.
- Write a Motivational Letter: Explain why you want the learnership, how you meet the requirements, and what you hope to gain.
- Prepare for the Interview: Review common civil engineering interview questions and practice your answers. Demonstrate enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
- Learnership Readiness Quiz: Take quizzes related to learnerships to assess and improve your readiness.
- Track Your Career Progress: Use tools to monitor your job application efforts and personal development.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official SGS or YES Programme websites where the application form will be available. Follow the instructions carefully and submit all required documents by the specified deadline.
FAQ: SGS Civil Engineering YES Learnership Programme 2026
1. What is the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme?
The YES Programme is a South African government initiative designed to create work experience opportunities for unemployed youth by partnering with private sector companies like SGS.
2. Who can apply for the SGS Civil Engineering Learnership?
South African citizens between 18 and 30 years, unemployed, holding a Civil Engineering NQF 4 or Diploma qualification, willing to relocate to Nelspruit.
3. Is previous work experience necessary?
No prior work experience is required, but any experience with sampling or laboratory work is advantageous.
4. Where is the learnership located?
The learnership is based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. Applicants must be willing to relocate.
5. What tasks will I perform during the learnership?
Tasks include field sampling, laboratory testing, quality control, safety compliance, and assisting supervisors with various civil engineering-related activities.
6. Will I receive a salary?
Learnerships typically offer a stipend, but exact details should be confirmed during the application process.
7. How long does the learnership last?
The duration is usually between 12 and 24 months, depending on the specific programme.
8. What happens after completing the learnership?
Completing the learnership improves your chances of gaining permanent employment either at SGS or elsewhere in the engineering industry.
9. How can I prepare for the application process?
Update your CV, prepare a motivational letter, practice interview questions, and use readiness quizzes to improve your application quality.
10. Where can I find more learnership opportunities?
Visit the official YES Programme website and other career portals regularly for updates on learnership openings.
Final Thoughts
The SGS Civil Engineering YES Learnership Programme 2026 is a golden opportunity for young South African engineers eager to gain industry experience and launch their careers. This structured, hands-on programme offers everything from field exposure to laboratory testing in a reputable global organisation.
If you meet the criteria, don’t hesitate to apply and take the first step toward a brighter engineering career. Remember, this is not just an internship — it’s a career gateway that could open doors for you in the engineering world.
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.