The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) is inviting motivated and ambitious engineering graduates to apply for its Graduate Engineering Programme (GEP) for the 2026 intake. This structured programme is designed to help young engineers build real technical expertise, gain industry experience and begin shaping their long-term careers within one of South Africa’s leading science and technology organisations.
Reference Number: NE-805
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Programme Overview
The Graduate Engineering Programme offers a comprehensive development pathway for emerging engineers who are ready to apply their academic knowledge in real work settings. It provides hands-on experience, professional guidance and exposure to multidisciplinary engineering environments across the broader Necsa Group.
Through a blend of rotational assignments, practical project involvement and continuous mentorship, participants receive the kind of workplace exposure that strengthens both technical confidence and leadership potential. By the end of the programme, graduates walk away with a solid foundation for future career progression at Necsa or within the broader engineering sector.
Key Features of the Programme
Rotational Engineering Exposure
During the programme, trainees rotate through several departments, including Design, Operations, Maintenance and Project Management. These rotations allow graduates to develop a well-rounded understanding of how different engineering functions contribute to overall organisational success.
Real Project Participation
From the beginning, participants contribute to live engineering projects where their inputs hold real value. This practical involvement ensures that graduates gain experience that aligns closely with industry expectations.
Ongoing Mentorship and Performance Development
Each trainee works under experienced engineers who provide continuous feedback, professional guidance and career support. This mentorship structure helps graduates grow both technically and personally.
Dedicated Skills and Learning Path
The programme includes on-the-job training, technical workshops, specialist courses and professional development activities. Trainees sharpen their engineering abilities while also strengthening soft skills such as communication, leadership and problem-solving.
Pathway to Future Opportunities
A successful programme experience may open the door to long-term career prospects within Necsa, giving trainees a competitive edge as they enter the engineering profession.
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Key Responsibilities
Graduate Engineer Trainees take on a range of responsibilities that support their development and contribute to organisational projects. These include:
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on engineering design, development and implementation.
- Interpreting engineering drawings, models and technical specifications to solve practical challenges.
- Assisting with the design, testing and optimisation of systems, components and processes.
- Conducting engineering analyses, capturing data, interpreting results and preparing technical reports.
- Participating in continuous improvement activities across manufacturing, operations and design functions.
- Ensuring that all tasks align with health, safety, quality and environmental standards.
- Managing accurate documentation of project activities and training milestones.
- Taking part in structured mentorship sessions and following the full professional development plan defined within the programme.
Programme Requirements
Necsa is looking for enthusiastic and committed engineering graduates who meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35.
- Qualifications: A completed bachelor’s degree (BEng/BSc Eng) in Chemical, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical or Control & Instrumentation Engineering. A master’s degree will be advantageous.
- Academic Record: Strong results in core engineering modules.
- Experience: No previous full-time experience is required. Internship experience, research projects or vacation work are welcome.
- Technical Skills: Computer literate with familiarity in CAD, modelling or simulation tools where applicable.
- Core Competencies: Strong analytical and communication skills, along with solid problem-solving abilities.
- Personal Qualities: Adaptable, curious, eager to learn and able to work effectively within a team environment.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the Necsa careers portal:
Apply here: Necsa Graduate Engineering Programme
Applications close on 05 December 2025.
Please note:
- Only online applications will be accepted.
- No hand-delivered submissions are allowed.
- Admission into the programme does not guarantee permanent employment.
- Accommodation is not provided.
- People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Additional Information
For enquiries about the programme or the application process, you may contact the recruitment office at InforNLA@necsa.co.za or call +27 12 305 4109 / 3381.
If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, your application should be considered unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The Necsa Graduate Engineering Programme presents an important opportunity for young engineering graduates who want to gain professional experience while contributing to meaningful projects within South Africa’s nuclear and scientific sectors. With structured mentorship, real project exposure and a strong focus on technical and personal growth, this programme provides an excellent foundation for graduates looking to start their engineering careers with confidence.
