Daimler Truck Southern Africa Ltd is proudly supporting the South African Government’s Youth Employment Services (YES) Programme for 2025 and 2026. This important initiative offers unemployed youth a unique opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience over a 12-month period. The YES Programme aims to combat youth unemployment by equipping young South Africans with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in the workforce.
About Daimler Truck Southern Africa
With over 125 years of global expertise in commercial vehicles, Daimler Truck AG stands as one of the world’s largest truck manufacturers. The company has been a key player in South Africa’s commercial vehicle industry for more than 60 years, operating through Daimler Truck Southern Africa Ltd and its subsidiaries. Their portfolio includes respected brands like Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Buses, and FUSO Trucks, alongside parts and services for Freightliner and Western Star Trucks.
Daimler Truck Southern Africa is not just about manufacturing trucks. They offer comprehensive value-added services, including Fleetboard, TruckStore, TruckTraining, and Financial Services. Headquartered in Pretoria with an East London production plant assembling vehicles locally, the company’s footprint spans Southern Africa, covering South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
The YES Programme: Creating Opportunities for Youth
The YES Programme is a government-led initiative partnered with companies like Daimler Truck Southern Africa to help reduce youth unemployment by providing meaningful work experience. Through this programme, young people can gain workplace exposure, develop professional skills, and increase their chances of securing future employment.
Who is Eligible?
The YES Programme targets unemployed South African youth aged between 18 and 29 years old. Applicants must have completed at least Grade 12, although tertiary qualifications are advantageous. Candidates should be computer literate, proficient in English, and have a clear criminal record. Importantly, individuals who have previously participated in any YES4Youth programmes are not eligible to apply.
No prior work experience is needed, making this programme accessible to many young people eager to start building their careers.
Preferred Qualifications
Daimler Truck Southern Africa welcomes candidates from diverse fields, but preference is given to those with qualifications aligned to the company’s operations. These include:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Industrial, Mechatronics)
- Human Resource Management
- Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics
- Finance (Financial Management, Applied Mathematics, Economics, Accounting, Tax)
- Information Technology
- Marketing (Communication, Public Relations, Digital Media)
- Legal (newly admitted attorneys)
These qualifications reflect the varied opportunities within Daimler Truck Southern Africa, providing roles suited to a broad range of career interests.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Daimler Truck Southern Africa is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified candidates will be considered regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. This aligns with South Africa’s Employment Equity Act and supports the inclusion of people with disabilities.
Foreign nationals interested in the programme must have the necessary work permits according to the Immigration Act 13, 2002.
How to Apply
Applications for the YES Programme 2025/2026 at Daimler Truck Southern Africa must be submitted by 30 May 2024. The programme is available at two main locations: Centurion and East London. For further queries, interested applicants can contact the Daimler Truck Southern Africa Careers team.
The YES Programme is more than just a training opportunity—it is a vital stepping stone that equips South African youth with the tools they need to succeed professionally. By participating in this initiative, young people gain practical skills, build confidence, and increase their chances of finding permanent employment.
For those eager to start a meaningful career, Daimler Truck Southern Africa’s YES Programme is a gateway to a future filled with possibilities.
Check also: Western Cape Government: Graduate Internship Programme 2025/2026