If you are an IT graduate looking to start your career with one of South Africa’s most recognised state-owned companies, the South African Airways IT Graduate Programme 2026 presents a valuable opportunity. This structured graduate programme is designed to provide practical, hands-on experience within a large and complex aviation environment while building strong technical and professional foundations.
South African Airways offers exposure to real operational systems, enterprise IT environments, and industry-standard practices, making this programme ideal for graduates who want to grow into well-rounded IT professionals.
Programme Overview
The IT Graduate Programme is a fixed-term graduate opportunity within SAA’s Operations Support division. Successful candidates will gain experience across IT support, systems administration, data reporting, cybersecurity awareness, and project support.
Programme details include:
- Organisation: South African Airways (SAA)
- Programme: IT Graduate Programme
- Reference Number: SAA260115-1
- Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng
- Business Unit: Operations Support
- Division: SAAT
- Reporting Line: Project Manager – AMEP
- Job Type: Graduate Programme / Internship
- Number of Positions: 2
- Minimum Qualification: Diploma or Degree in an IT-related field
Key Responsibilities
IT Support and Troubleshooting
Graduates will serve as first-line support for internal users, assisting with:
- Diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues
- Configuring laptops, desktops, mobile devices, and peripherals
- Supporting connectivity, login, and system access issues
This role develops strong technical problem-solving and customer support skills, which are essential in any IT career path.
Systems Administration Support
Participants will support senior IT professionals with:
- User account creation and access management
- Permissions and role-based access control
- System updates, backups, and patch management
- Monitoring system performance and stability
This exposure is particularly valuable for graduates interested in infrastructure, systems administration, or network roles.
Data and Reporting Support
The programme also offers experience in data-related tasks, including:
- Extracting and validating operational data
- Supporting management information and reporting systems
- Ensuring data accuracy and integrity
These skills are increasingly important in data-driven organisations.
Cybersecurity and Compliance
Graduates will gain foundational exposure to cybersecurity by:
- Applying basic information security practices
- Supporting compliance checks and audits
- Assisting with device security standards
- Promoting safe and responsible technology use among staff
This experience provides a strong entry point into cybersecurity or IT risk-related career paths.
Project and Administrative Support
Additional responsibilities include:
- Supporting IT system rollouts and upgrades
- Assisting with software implementations
- Preparing user guides and training materials
- Managing IT inventory and assisting with vendor coordination
This builds early exposure to IT project environments and operational planning.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Information Systems
- Or a related IT field
Previous internship experience is advantageous but not required. Newly qualified graduates are encouraged to apply.
Technical Skills and Knowledge
Applicants should have a basic understanding of:
- Windows and macOS operating systems
- Computer hardware and software troubleshooting
- Networking fundamentals such as Wi-Fi and IP addressing
- Collaboration and cloud tools such as Microsoft 365 and Teams
- Basic cybersecurity principles
A willingness to learn and adapt is more important than knowing everything upfront.
Personal Attributes
SAA is looking for graduates who demonstrate:
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Clear verbal and written communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to perform under pressure
- Curiosity and eagerness to learn
- Adaptability in fast-paced operational environments
Professional attitude and reliability are essential in this role.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official South African Airways careers platform using the reference number provided.
APPLY FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS (SAA) IT GRADUATE PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
The closing date for applications is 22 January 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Conclusion
The South African Airways IT Graduate Programme 2026 offers a rare opportunity for IT graduates to gain hands-on experience within a large, complex, and high-pressure operational environment. Through exposure to IT support, systems administration, data reporting, cybersecurity, and project support, graduates are equipped with practical skills that are highly relevant in today’s job market. For young professionals looking to build a solid foundation in enterprise IT while contributing to a national airline’s operations, this programme serves as a strong stepping stone toward long-term career growth in the technology sector.
