Eskom Electrical Apprenticeship 2025: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re passionate about working with electricity, wiring, installations, and want to build a solid technical career, the Eskom Electrical Apprenticeship Programme 2025 is one of the top pathways in South Africa. Eskom, the national power provider, regularly offers these apprenticeships in the electrical discipline — giving young people hands-on skill training, institutional classes, and the chance to earn a trade test certification.

What Is the Eskom Electrical Apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship is part of Eskom’s Artisan Training Programme. It’s a three-year programme designed for people who want to become qualified electricians (Heavy Current / Electrical Distribution). Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll combine classroom/institutional learning (lectures, technical theory) with on-the-job training (practical work) at Eskom facilities.

The goal is to produce skilled artisans, certified through the trade test, who are technically competent in electrical systems required for maintaining, repairing, and expanding Eskom’s infrastructure.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

To apply for Eskom’s Electrical Apprenticeship Programme, there are academic and personal criteria you’ll need to meet. Some of the commonly required qualifications are:

You must have one of the following:

• Grade 12 (Matric) with:
  • Maths: at least 50%
  • Physical Science: at least 50%
  • English: at least 40%
• OR an N3 Engineering certificate with the same subject minimums (Maths 50%, Physical Science 50%, English 40%)
• OR NCV Level 4 (National Certificate Vocational) with at least 50% in Maths and Physical Science, and at least 40% in English

Other important attributes that Eskom looks for:

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• A disciplined work ethic, high motivation, and reliability
• Emotional resilience and ability to cope with pressure
• Safety conscious and committed to following rules and standards
• Basic computer literacy (e.g., using MS Word, Excel) is often required

What You’ll Be Doing: Key Responsibilities

During the apprenticeship, your work will include:

• Attending institutional classes for technical theory, electrical systems, safety codes, and electrical principles.
• On-site / practical work under supervision: this may include installations, maintenance or repair work, understanding electrical safety procedures, reading wiring diagrams, helping with testing, etc.
• Following Eskom’s safety, quality, and operational standards while working on live systems or infrastructure.
• Completing assessments and coursework required during training. Each year or training block will likely have milestones or tests to pass.
• At the end of the period, preparing for and undertaking the Trade Test, which certifies artisans as qualified electricians.

Duration & Training Structure

• The apprenticeship lasts three years.
• Training is split between institutional/theoretical training and on-the-job/practical training. So, you’ll alternate between lectures or technical college and working at Eskom facilities under mentor artisans.
• By the end, assuming all assessments are passed and competency demonstrated, you’ll be eligible to receive a Trade Test certificate.

Where the Apprenticeships Are Offered

Eskom offers these apprenticeships in various locations, often grouped by region or “cluster.” Some of the previously advertised locations include:

• Cape Coastal Cluster (Western Cape) — including places like Swellendam, Plettenberg Bay, Riversdale, etc.
• Opportunities are also available in other provinces depending on Eskom’s needs.

Application Process

Here’s how to apply for the Eskom Electrical Apprenticeship:

1. Watch for the Advertisement
   • Eskom usually publishes the apprenticeship advert on its official careers portal, and through job boards such as Youth Village, Matriq, etc.
   • Make sure you note the closing date in the advert. Late applications are typically not accepted.
2. Prepare Your Documents
   • Copy of your South African ID
   • Certified copies of your Matric / Grade 12 certificate showing the relevant subject marks
   • If applicable, your N3 Engineering certificate or NCV Level 4 certificate with subject marks
   • Updated CV (list your educational background, any technical or workshop exposure)
3. Submit Your Application
   • SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION HERE
4. Shortlisting & Interview / Assessment
   • If your application is successful, you may be called for an interview or technical assessment.
   • The selection may also include checking physical fitness / safety compliance depending on the role.
5. Commencement & Training
   • If selected, you’ll begin the training (both institutional & on-site) as per Eskom’s schedule.

Why This Apprenticeship Is a Great Opportunity

• Highly Respected Employer: Eskom is a major national entity; having “Eskom Electrical Apprentice” on your CV carries credibility.
• Certified Qualification: You’re being trained toward a Trade Test, which is a qualification recognized across South Africa.
• Skills that Are in Demand: Electricians are always needed in power generation, distribution, construction, industry, etc.
• Hands-on Experience: You don’t just study; you learn while doing — practical skills under supervision boost employability.
• Career Growth: From apprentice, you can move into artisan, supervisor, or technical specialist roles.

Things to Be Aware Of

• It’s a long commitment — three years of training and work. Must be willing to learn, adapt, and work under supervision.
• Some locations may be remote or require relocation. Be ready for that possibility.
• Safety is crucial. Working around electrical infrastructure can be dangerous if procedures are not followed. Ensuring you meet all safety standards is part of the job.
• The stipend / pay might start modest — apprenticeship programs often pay a lower allowance during training. Know what your financial expectations should be.

Tips to Maximise Your Chance of Getting Selected

• Make sure your Maths & Physical Science marks are clearly documented, since these are key subject requirements.
• If you have any workshop/technical exposure (school, technical college, DIY work), include it in your CV or motivation letter.
• Write a strong motivation letter showing why you want to become an Eskom electrician: show interest, dedication, maybe references.
• Be careful with your application: ensure all required documents are included, no missing info.
• Apply early. Many good candidates apply, and early submission reduces risk of last-minute technical/app submission issues.

Summary

The Eskom Electrical Apprenticeship Programme 2025 is a valuable opportunity for young South Africans who want to build a technical career in the electrical trade. With the right qualifications (Grade 12 / N3 / NCV Level 4), a strong work ethic, and readiness to learn both in classroom and in the field, you can gain nationally recognized artisan status in three years.

If this is your goal, prepare early, check Eskom’s careers postings, collect your documents, and apply as soon as possible. It could be the start of a rewarding and stable career in one of South Africa’s most essential services.