About the Programme
The National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) has officially opened applications for 20 positions under the Youth Employment Service (Y.E.S) Internship Programme. Based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, NBI is a leading biopharmaceutical manufacturer specializing in life-saving plasma-derived therapeutic proteins and diagnostic tools.
This 12-month fixed-term contract offers structured practical exposure inside a world-class manufacturing facility. Interns assist with the production of bulk intermediates and final formulated liquids across Pooling, Fractionation, or Refining process units.
What Will You Learn & Eligibility Criteria
Interns will gain structured industrial work experience while operating under strict Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) protocols and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards.
Key Practical Skills Gained:
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Biomanufacturing Operations: Preparing, operating, and cleaning production equipment according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Quality Assurance & Control: Collecting QA/QC samples and maintaining sterile cleanroom environments.
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Compliance Documentation: Accurately completing batch manufacturing records, logbooks, and audit trails.
- Equipment Calibration: Monitoring machinery performance and conducting first-line operational maintenance.
Key Details & Monthly Stipend Estimates
| Parameter | Details |
| Reference Number | NBI261014-1 |
| Total Openings | 20 Posts |
| Contract Duration | 12 Months (Fixed Term) |
| Workplace Location | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (On-site) |
| Operating Hours | 40 to 45 hours/week; 8-hour or 12-hour rotating shifts (24/7 schedule) |
| Estimated Stipend | R4,500 – R7,500/month (Estimated based on Y.E.S wage benchmarks) |
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Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the NBI YES Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Citizenship & Age: South African citizen aged between 18 and 34 years.
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Employment Status: Currently unemployed and not enrolled in full-time studies.
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric) with at least a D symbol (or level 4 equivalent) in English, Mathematics, Physical Science, and Biology/Life Sciences.
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Experience Limit: Maximum 2 years of formal work experience.
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Y.E.S Status: Must not have participated in any prior Youth Employment Service initiative.
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Added Advantages: Pharmacist Assistant Training (PAT Basic/Post Basic), tertiary qualifications in Life Sciences or Engineering, or prior laboratory experience.
Required Documents
Ensure you have clear, certified copies (not older than 3 to 6 months) of the following documentation before starting your online application:
- National Identity Document: Certified RSA ID card or green barcoded ID.
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Matric Certificate: Senior Certificate showing subject marks for English, Mathematics, Science, and Biology.
- Tertiary Qualifications / Academic Records: If applicable (e.g., PAT qualifications, Engineering, or Life Sciences transcripts).
- Comprehensive CV: Detailing your educational background and any short-term work history.
- Proof of Residence: Required for verification during pre-employment medical checks.
Closing Date
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Application Deadline: 27 October 2026
Note: Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. Early submission is recommended to avoid network congestion on the portal.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Securing a paid placement under the Y.E.S initiative provides young jobseekers with a structured entry point into South Africa’s regulated pharmaceutical sector. Aside from gaining practical bioprocess training, earning a consistent monthly income allows candidates to establish early financial independence, build credit histories, and begin long-term wealth management strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the NBI YES Programme stipend taxable?
Yes. Stipends paid to intern workers are subject to South African Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax regulations if the total annual income exceeds the personal tax threshold set by SARS.
2. Can I apply if I have already completed a Y.E.S program with another employer?
No. Candidates who have previously registered or completed a Y.E.S contract with any other company are strictly ineligible.
3. Are night shifts and weekend work mandatory?
Yes. Because NBI operates a 24/7 production facility, interns must commit to working rotating 8-hour or 12-hour shifts across Monday to Sunday, including public holidays when scheduled.
How to Apply
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Go to the official NBI e-Recruit Portal
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Locate the vacancy NBI Youth Employment Service x 20 (Ref: NBI261014-1).
- Create an applicant profile or sign in to your existing account.
- Fill in your personal details, academic results, and work history.
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Upload your updated CV and supporting certified documents.
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Submit your application before 27 October 2026.
Apply for NBI Youth Employment Service x 20 Learnerships 2026
Final Thoughts
This 12-month learnership at the National Bioproducts Institute provides an outstanding foundation for career advancement in biotechnology, quality control, and industrial operations. Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria should finalize their application materials promptly to secure consideration before the closing date.
