The National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) is offering an exciting opportunity for young South Africans through its Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme. This 12-month workplace experience programme is designed to empower unemployed youth by placing them inside a world-class biopharmaceutical manufacturing environment. Located in Durban, this opportunity gives participants a chance to work alongside skilled professionals and learn how life-saving plasma-derived medicines are produced.
NBI is known for its commitment to patient-centred care, scientific excellence, and innovation. Through this YES initiative, the organisation aims to equip young people with practical experience while contributing to its broader transformation and employment equity objectives.
If you are passionate about healthcare, science, or pharmaceutical manufacturing, this programme offers a meaningful stepping stone into the industry.
Programme Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Title | NBI Youth Employment Service |
| Job Type | Temporary |
| Department | API Manufacturing |
| Workplace Type | On-site |
| Location | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Job Category | Pharmaceutical |
| Minimum Education | Grade 12 – National Higher Certificate |
| Reference Number | NBI250912-1 |
| Closing Date | 27 November 2025 |
About the National Bioproducts Institute
NBI is a respected African manufacturer and supplier of therapeutic proteins and diagnostic products. Guided by a purpose to relieve pain and improve patient quality of life, the organisation focuses on producing plasma-derived medicines used across the healthcare sector.
YES learners placed at NBI gain valuable exposure to real production environments, working closely with Process Technicians, Fractionators, and Pooling Technicians. The training environment is structured, regulated, and deeply aligned with operational excellence and quality assurance.
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Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen aged 18–34 years
- Be unemployed and not studying full-time
- Hold Grade 12 with at least a D mark in English, Mathematics, Science, and Biology
- Pharmacist Assistant Training (PAT) Basic or Post Basic is advantageous
- Tertiary qualifications in Engineering or Life Sciences will be an added advantage
- Have no more than 2 years’ work experience
- Must not have participated in a YES Programme before
- Be willing to commit to the full 12-month programme
See Also African Global Skills Academy (AGSA) & Solarpop Bursary Programme 2026
Duties and Responsibilities
SHE Requirements
Due to the nature of the biopharmaceutical production environment, strict compliance is required:
- Pre-employment, routine, and exit medicals are compulsory
- Attendance at SHE training is mandatory
- Adherence to SHE instructions and site rules is required at all times
- Learners must use proper PPE and follow OSH Act requirements
- Exposure to hazardous and biologically active chemicals makes safety compliance essential
Operational Requirements
NBI operates on a structured 24/7 schedule, which requires flexibility:
- Working hours may be 45 hours per week (Monday–Sunday) or 40 hours per week, depending on the area
- Learners must be willing and able to work evening shifts and rotational shift schedules
- Shifts may include:
- 12-hour shifts (06:00–18:00 or 18:00–06:00), Monday to Sunday
- 8-hour shifts between 06:00 and 18:00, depending on roster
- Overtime may be required to meet operational needs
- Weekend and public holiday work may be part of the roster
Key Responsibilities in the Production Environment
Participants will support unit operations that contribute to the manufacturing of plasma-derived medicinal products. Duties include:
- Equipment preparation and routine maintenance
- Conducting sampling and performing quality checks
- Completing required documentation and following SOPs
- Following cleanroom procedures and observing safety protocols
Core Competencies
Learners will be expected to demonstrate growth in the following areas:
- Leading and Influencing Others
- Business Impact
- Managing Relationships
- Personal Leadership
NBI emphasises development and transformation; therefore, preference may be given to applicants from designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Act.
Important Notes
- Due to the nature of the business, medical examinations (pre-employment, routine, and exit) are compulsory.
- All personal information will be processed according to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
- If you do not receive a response within 30 days after the closing date, your application was unsuccessful.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and want to begin a meaningful journey in biopharmaceutical production, you are encouraged to apply through the official application portal provided in the advert:
Apply at: NBI Youth Employment Service Learnership
Conclusion
The NBI Youth Employment Service Learnership offers an incredible opportunity for young South Africans who want to gain real industrial experience in a specialised pharmaceutical environment. With structured training, exposure to advanced production processes, and the chance to work with experienced professionals, this programme can help you build a strong foundation for your future career. If you meet the requirements, be sure to apply before the 27 November 2025 closing date to secure your chance.
