The successful candidates will be placed in Eskom Operations across the divisions following the recruitment process. Applicants should therefore be prepared to participate in the required recruitment and selection process before placement.
About the Learner Plant Operator Opportunity
A Learner Plant Operator plays an important role in the operational environment of a power station. The position provides candidates with an opportunity to develop practical knowledge and workplace skills related to plant operations.
For this Eskom opportunity, successful applicants will be afforded both institutionalised training and on-the-job training. This means learners can expect to gain exposure to workplace practices while developing an understanding of the operational environment.
The opportunity may be suitable for candidates with a Grade 12 qualification, N3, NCV Level 4 or relevant National N4/N5/N6 certificates, provided they meet the specified subject and percentage requirements.
Applicants should carefully review the qualification requirements before submitting an application.
Learner Plant Operator Qualification Requirements
Candidates applying for the Learner Plant Operator positions must meet one of the specified educational pathways.
Grade 12 Applicants
Applicants with Grade 12 must have:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics at 50%
- Physical Science at 50%
- English at 40%
Applicants should ensure that their Grade 12 results clearly demonstrate the required marks in these subjects.
N3 Applicants
Candidates who have an N3 qualification may also apply if they have:
- N3 with Mathematics at 50%
- Science at 50%
- English at 40%
NCV Level 4 Applicants
Applicants with NCV Level 4 must meet the following requirements:
- NCV Level 4
- Mathematics at 50%
- Science at 50%
- English at 40%
National Certificate Applicants
The vacancy also lists the following qualification routes:
- National N4/N5 Certificate with Trade Subjects
- National N6 Certificate with Trade Subjects
Applicants should make sure that their qualifications are relevant to the requirements stated in the vacancy before applying.
Citizenship Requirement
One of the stated minimum requirements for the Eskom Learner Plant Operator opportunity is that applicants must be South African citizens.
Candidates who do not meet this requirement should take note of it before proceeding with their application.
Skills and Competencies
Although the vacancy lists the formal skills and competencies section as N/A, Eskom identifies several qualities and workplace attributes expected from applicants.
These include leadership and teamwork abilities. Candidates should be able to work effectively with other employees and contribute positively within a team environment.
Leadership
Applicants should demonstrate the ability to take responsibility and contribute constructively in a working environment. Leadership does not necessarily mean managing other employees; it can also involve showing initiative, accountability and a willingness to take responsibility for assigned tasks.
Team Player
Working in an operational environment requires cooperation with colleagues. Candidates should therefore be comfortable working as part of a team and communicating with people from different areas of the organisation.
Behavioural Competencies
The vacancy identifies several behavioural qualities that applicants should possess.
These include:
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Customer focus
Integrity is important because employees are expected to conduct themselves honestly and responsibly. Professionalism involves maintaining appropriate workplace conduct and respecting organisational standards.
Customer focus is also highlighted as an important behavioural quality. Applicants should understand the importance of providing a professional service and maintaining positive working relationships.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
The vacancy also identifies several important skills, including:
- Communication skills
- Sound interpersonal skills
- Negotiation skills
- Liaising skills
Good communication is important in an operational environment because employees need to exchange information clearly and work effectively with colleagues.
Interpersonal skills are equally important because learners may interact with employees across different areas of the organisation during their training.
Liaising skills can help employees communicate with relevant individuals and departments when dealing with workplace activities, while negotiation skills may assist when resolving matters or working with different stakeholders.
Personal Attributes
Eskom has also identified several attributes expected from applicants. These include:
- Politeness
- Promptness
- Energetic approach
- Being a self-starter
- Assertiveness
Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning and workplace responsibilities.
Being a self-starter is particularly useful in a learner position because successful candidates will need to take their training seriously, ask questions when necessary and show an interest in developing their skills.
Promptness and politeness are also important workplace qualities, while assertiveness can help employees communicate appropriately and confidently.
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibility stated for the position is that the incumbent will be afforded institutionalised and on-the-job training.
The training component is an important part of this opportunity. Successful applicants will have the chance to develop their knowledge and practical understanding within the Eskom Operations environment.
Candidates should therefore be willing to learn, follow workplace procedures and participate fully in the training programme.
Recruitment and Placement Process
According to the vacancy information, applicants will go through a recruitment process. If successful, candidates will be placed in Eskom Operations across the divisions.
Applicants should understand that meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily mean automatic appointment. Candidates will still need to participate in the applicable recruitment and selection process.
It is therefore important to provide accurate information and ensure that all application details and supporting qualifications are correct.
How to Apply for the Eskom Learner Plant Operator x7 Position
Interested and suitably qualified applicants should apply for the position online before the closing date of 20 September 2026.
When submitting the application, applicants are specifically instructed to quote the reference number for the application and the training programme they are applying for.
The reference associated with this opportunity is:
Reference Number: LPO x7 Mat Gx
Applicants should carefully check their application before submitting it to ensure that the correct position and reference information have been included.
Important Notice for Applicants
Eskom has stated that applicants who have not been contacted within 28 days after the closing date should accept that their application was unsuccessful.
Candidates should therefore ensure that their contact details are correct and regularly monitor their communication channels after applying.
Eskom also states that it is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. According to the vacancy notice, and in line with Eskom’s employment equity plan and employment equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited, to candidates from under-represented designated groups.
Eskom further reserves the right not to make an appointment to the advertised posts.
Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Smoke-Free Workplace
Eskom has stated that it is committed to providing a smoke-free environment for employees and visitors at the workplace.
Applicants should be aware of this workplace policy when considering the opportunity.
Final Reminder
The Eskom Learner Plant Operator x7 opportunity at Matimba Power Station provides an opportunity for qualifying South African citizens in Limpopo to enter a structured learning and workplace environment within the electricity and energy sector.
With seven positions available, the opportunity is aimed at candidates who meet the specified academic requirements and are interested in developing technical and operational experience. The vacancy accepts several qualification pathways, including Grade 12, N3, NCV Level 4 and certain National N4/N5/N6 certificates with trade subjects.
Successful applicants will undergo institutionalised and on-the-job training and may be placed within Eskom Operations across the divisions following the recruitment process.
If you meet the requirements, make sure your application is submitted before the 20 September 2026 closing date. Applicants should quote the correct reference number and training programme when applying and carefully review all information before submitting their application.



