Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd, South Africa’s primary electricity public utility, has announced its Engineer in Training (EIT) Programme for 2026. This opportunity is designed for recent engineering graduates who want to gain structured workplace experience in the power generation and energy sector. The programme supports the development of young professionals in line with Eskom’s commitment to skills development and transformation within South Africa.
The Engineer in Training programme is ideal for graduates in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering who are looking to build a long-term career in one of the country’s most important industries.
Company: Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd
Location: Various provinces including Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal
Closing Date: 31 March 2026
About the Eskom Engineer in Training Programme
The Engineer in Training (EIT) Programme is a structured graduate development initiative that provides practical exposure, mentorship, and technical training. It is specifically designed to prepare engineering graduates for professional registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
Successful candidates will work under the supervision of experienced engineers and technical specialists across Eskom’s power stations, transmission divisions, maintenance departments, and related operational units.
The programme aims to equip graduates with the necessary competencies, technical knowledge, and workplace skills required to operate effectively in the energy and utilities sector.
Fields Offered
The 2026 Engineer in Training Programme focuses on the following core engineering disciplines:
Electrical Engineering
Graduates in Electrical Engineering will gain exposure to:
- Power generation systems
- High-voltage transmission networks
- Electrical maintenance and plant operations
- Protection and control systems
- Energy distribution infrastructure
Electrical engineers play a critical role in ensuring reliable electricity supply, system stability, and safe operation of Eskom’s power infrastructure.
Mechanical Engineering
Graduates in Mechanical Engineering will be exposed to:
- Turbine and boiler systems
- Mechanical maintenance planning
- Heavy plant equipment operations
- Rotating machinery and thermal systems
- Plant reliability and asset management
Mechanical engineers are responsible for maintaining and improving the efficiency of large-scale power generation equipment.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the Engineer in Training Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification
- BEng, BSc Engineering, or BTech degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from a recognized South African institution.
- The qualification must be completed or nearing completion at the time of application.
Experience
- No prior work experience is required.
- This programme is specifically aimed at recent graduates entering the workforce.
Other Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance.
- Good communication skills.
- Willingness to work at Eskom sites across different provinces.
- Ability to work in a structured and safety-focused environment.
Candidates must also be medically fit and willing to comply with Eskom’s safety and operational standards.
Training and Development
The Engineer in Training Programme provides structured learning and development through:
- Practical on-the-job training
- Technical mentorship from senior engineers
- Exposure to live power generation and transmission environments
- Performance evaluations and development planning
Graduates are given clear development milestones aligned with ECSA professional registration requirements. This structured approach ensures that trainees build the competencies needed to grow into fully qualified professional engineers.
Career Growth Opportunities
Eskom offers long-term career development within the energy sector. After successfully completing the Engineer in Training programme, candidates may be considered for permanent engineering roles within the organization, depending on performance and business needs.
Career paths may include:
- Plant Engineer
- Maintenance Engineer
- Transmission Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Engineering Specialist
The experience gained within Eskom provides a strong foundation for future leadership and technical specialist roles in the energy industry.
Work Environment
Eskom operates in a highly regulated and safety-conscious environment. Engineers work in power stations, substations, workshops, and operational facilities across South Africa.
The organization emphasizes:
- Workplace safety
- Technical excellence
- Skills development
- Sustainable energy practices
Working at Eskom allows graduates to contribute directly to national infrastructure and energy security.
Important Date
Closing Date for Applications: 31 March 2026
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that their applications are complete and submitted before the deadline. Late submissions may not be considered.
The Eskom Engineer in Training (Electrical and Mechanical) Programme 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for South African engineering graduates to gain structured experience in the power sector. With no prior experience required and a strong focus on professional development, this programme serves as a gateway to a rewarding engineering career in South Africa’s energy industry.
direct email application link
Here’s the official way to apply for the South African Eskom Engineer in Training (EIT) programme — including the direct application link and contact email:
📩 Direct Application Link — Eskom Careers Portal
To apply for the Eskom Engineer in Training (EIT) 2026 programme (Electrical / Mechanical engineering):