The SGS YES Internship Programme 2026 offers unemployed South African youth an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience in the inspection, testing, and certification industry. This programme forms part of the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which aims to tackle youth unemployment by providing young people with meaningful work exposure and skills development.
If you are a matriculant with Mathematics and Science, this internship could be a great stepping stone toward building a career in laboratory services, quality control, or technical fieldwork.
About SGS
SGS is a globally recognised company that provides inspection, testing, verification, and certification services. The organisation operates in various industries including mining, agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and environmental services.
Through independent assessments and quality assurance processes, SGS helps organisations ensure their products and systems meet international standards, regulatory requirements, and safety expectations. The company operates in many countries worldwide and is known for its commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation.
About the SGS YES Internship Programme
The SGS YES Internship Programme is designed to provide hands-on work experience to young South Africans who are currently unemployed. Interns will be exposed to both fieldwork and laboratory environments, allowing them to gain practical skills while working alongside experienced professionals.
Participants will receive mentorship, on-the-job training, and exposure to real operational processes. This helps interns build technical knowledge, improve workplace readiness, and strengthen their employability for future opportunities.
The programme is ideal for candidates who are interested in science, data analysis, laboratory work, and quality testing.
Internship Locations
Successful applicants must be willing to work at one of the following locations:
- Barberton, Mpumalanga
- Randfontein, Gauteng
Applicants should be prepared to relocate if necessary.
Key Responsibilities
Interns participating in the programme will assist with various operational and laboratory tasks, including:
- Cleaning the site or workshop after tasks are completed and ensuring the area is free from consumables used during the job.
- Following all quality and safety procedures within the SGS management system.
- Reporting any deviations, irregularities, or non-conformances to supervisors.
- Performing fieldwork and laboratory work, including sampling, calculations, and testing methods.
- Supporting laboratory and operational teams with daily activities.
- Maintaining discipline and professionalism within the assigned department.
- Carrying out any other reasonable tasks assigned by the site supervisor, laboratory manager, or regional manager.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the SGS YES Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 (Mathematics and Science required)
- Proficiency in English
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Must be between 18 and 33 years old
- Must be currently unemployed
- Must not have participated in a YES Programme before
- Must have no criminal record
- Must be willing to relocate to Barberton or Randfontein if required
Skills and Competencies
SGS is looking for candidates who demonstrate strong workplace skills and the ability to learn quickly. Ideal candidates should have:
- Computer literacy (MS Office – Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Interest in data analysis and research
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Good organizational and time-management skills
- The ability to work independently
- A self-motivated attitude with a high level of initiative
These skills will help interns succeed in both technical laboratory environments and operational fieldwork.
Related: General Worker Vacancies at the City of Tshwane
Benefits of the YES Internship Programme
Participating in the SGS YES Internship Programme can help young job seekers:
- Gain real workplace experience
- Develop technical and laboratory skills
- Learn about quality testing and inspection processes
- Build a professional network
- Improve their CV and employability
For many young people, this type of programme can open doors to future employment opportunities within technical, laboratory, or industrial sectors.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online using the official SGS application portal:
Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as positions may close once enough applications have been received.
