| Job Title: | NBI Youth Employment Service (Y.E.S Programme) |
|---|---|
| Closing Date: | 27 November 2025 |
| Location: | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Company: | National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) |
| Employment Type: | 12-Month YES Internship (Temporary) |
| Minimum Qualification: | Grade 12 – English, Maths, Science & Biology |
NBI Youth Employment Service Programme – Durban Opportunity
Introduction
The National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) is one of South Africa’s leading biopharmaceutical manufacturers, well known for its contribution to the development of therapeutic proteins and plasma-derived medicines. Guided by a purpose to improve patient health and quality of life, NBI plays a major role in supplying lifesaving diagnostic and therapeutic products across the continent. For young South Africans seeking their first real work experience, the organisation is offering an exciting opportunity through the NBI Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme.
This one-year, full-time internship is specifically designed to empower unemployed youth by providing hands-on experience in a highly specialised pharmaceutical production environment. The YES initiative is aligned with South Africa’s national vision of reducing youth unemployment and equipping young people with practical work readiness skills. For candidates interested in scientific and technical careers, this programme presents a rare opportunity to gain real industry exposure in a world-class biomanufacturing facility.
About the Opportunity
The NBI YES Programme places successful candidates within the organisation’s API Manufacturing division, where they will work alongside experienced professionals such as Fractionators, Pooling Technicians, and Process Technicians. Interns will be introduced to critical operational processes involved in producing plasma-derived medicinal products. These specialised processes are essential for manufacturing diagnostic and therapeutic proteins that support thousands of patients each year.
Participants will be immersed in a structured environment where compliance, precision, and safety are key pillars. From cleanroom protocols to sampling activities, documentation practices, and equipment preparation, interns will gain exposure to the full production workflow. This hands-on experience strengthens their employability and sets a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, engineering, or laboratory environments.
Who Should Apply
This YES internship opportunity is open to unemployed South African citizens aged 18 to 34. Applicants must have completed Grade 12 with a minimum D pass in Mathematics, English, Biology, and Science. Individuals with pharmacist assistant training (PAT Basic or Post Basic) are encouraged to apply, as these qualifications are an advantage. The programme also welcomes applicants with tertiary qualifications in life sciences or engineering fields.
Candidates must not have previously participated in any YES Programme and should have no more than two years of work experience. Since the programme spans 12 months, commitment and reliability are essential. This opportunity is ideal for motivated young people who wish to gain hands-on operational experience and build a career within pharmaceutical manufacturing, cleanroom operations, or technical laboratory environments.
Skills & Requirements
- South African citizen aged 18–34.
- Grade 12 with required passes in key subjects.
- No full-time studies or employment during the internship.
- No previous participation in a Youth Employment Service Programme.
- Tertiary science or engineering qualifications advantageous.
- Strong interest in pharmaceutical manufacturing and production operations.
Operational & Safety Requirements
The NBI environment is governed by strict health, safety, and environmental (SHE) standards. Due to exposure to biological materials and hazardous chemicals, all candidates must undergo pre-employment, routine, and exit medical examinations as required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), attending mandatory safety training, and following SHE instructions are non-negotiable.
Operationally, candidates must also be prepared for demanding shift schedules. Depending on the area of placement, interns may work:
- A 45-hour week, Monday to Sunday, following a rotation.
- A 40-hour week with possible evening and weekend duties.
- 12-hour shifts from 06:00 to 18:00 or 18:00 to 06:00.
- 8-hour shifts between 06:00 and 18:00 as rostered.
Overtime may be required based on operational needs, and interns must be available to work weekends and public holidays when rostered. This reflects the 24/7 nature of pharmaceutical production, ensuring constant availability of lifesaving medical products.
Duties & Responsibilities
During the 12-month internship, candidates will support production teams across multiple unit operations. Their responsibilities include:
- Preparing and maintaining equipment used in manufacturing.
- Conducting sampling and performing quality checks.
- Accurately documenting processes in line with SOPs.
- Supporting cleanroom practices and maintaining sterility standards.
- Adhering to strict safety, hygiene, and compliance protocols.
- Assisting with various manufacturing processes that contribute to plasma-derived medicinal products.
Through this experience, interns will learn core technical skills while also developing essential soft skills such as teamwork, time management, leadership, business awareness, and communication. These competencies are valuable across all Transnet jobs and broader South African industries.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the requirements must submit their applications before the closing date of 27 November 2025. Applicants should ensure their information is accurate and complete because personal data will be handled according to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and if no response is received within 30 days after the closing date, applicants may consider their application unsuccessful.
Closing Thoughts
The NBI Youth Employment Service Programme provides an exceptional platform for young South Africans eager to start a career in pharmaceutical manufacturing or biotechnology. With structured learning, strong mentorship, and exposure to highly specialised production environments, this programme offers unmatched professional growth. If you are passionate about science, healthcare, and contributing to the development of lifesaving medicines, this opportunity provides the perfect foundation for your future career.
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