Can you work at Eskom without Matric in South Africa? Explore current entry points like general worker roles, crowd opportunities.
Eskom, South Africa’s largest electricity provider, is often seen as a prestigious employer—but some roles require a Matric certificate. If you’re wondering whether you can work there without Matric, this guide explores all the flexible entry points and training pathways Eskom offers in 2025.
1. General Worker Roles: Accessible with Matric
Many general worker positions at Eskom require a Matric certificate. Essential roles such as assisting technicians, basic maintenance, and supporting day-to-day operations typically list Matric as a minimum requirement. In most cases, Grade 12 is the standard, especially for roles where electrical or technical aptitude is involved.
2. Learnerships: A Route for Matric Holders, Not a Workaround
Eskom’s learnership programmes are designed to develop skills while you train, but they require a Matric certificate or equivalent. These structured opportunities last between 12 and 24 months and offer stipends, hands-on training, and a nationally recognised qualification upon completion.
In short, learnerships do not provide a path to working at Eskom without Matric—they are only available once you’ve already completed this qualification.
3. Apprenticeships and Trades: Still Matric-Based Entry
Eskom offers technical roles like electrician, fitter and turner, or plant operator through apprenticeship programmes. While the Matric requirement may sometimes allow for N3 or technical equivalents, a formal school certificate is generally expected, especially in a structured corporate environment like Eskom.
4. Crowdsourcing and Project-Based Roles
Eskom has previously introduced a crowdsourcing platform to identify and place skilled candidates in temporary or project-based work. These roles vary in requirements. Some might not explicitly require Matric, but competition is high, and preference is often given to candidates with formal qualifications.
5. Jobs Without Matric: Are There Any?
While Eskom’s formal jobs almost always require at least Grade 12, there are rare instances where entry-level or short-term jobs might be open to people without Matric—such as roles in logistics support, plant cleaning, or general assistance. However, these roles are uncommon and not guaranteed.
6. Real-World Advice from Other Job Seekers
People seeking work without Matric often turn to industries like:
- Retail
- Construction
- Hospitality
- General labour
- Security services
While not part of Eskom’s core offerings, these roles can be a starting point. By building experience and obtaining additional certifications (like an NQF Level 3 or 4), you can improve your employability and later apply to institutions like Eskom.
7. Alternative Learning and Up-Skilling Routes
If you don’t have Matric but want to work at Eskom in the future, consider these options:
a) Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET)
Also known as Adult Matric, ABET programmes are offered by community colleges and allow adults to earn their National Senior Certificate.
b) NATED or N-Courses
Technical colleges offer N1, N2, and N3 certificates in engineering and related fields. These can substitute Matric for certain trades and apprenticeships.
c) SETA Skills Programmes
Some Sector Education and Training Authorities offer skills programmes or short courses that do not always require Matric.
d) TVET Colleges
Some Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges allow students to enrol with Grade 9 or 10 for foundational programmes.
Summary: Job Options Without Matric at Eskom
| Opportunity Type | Matric Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Worker Positions | Yes (commonly required) | Basic roles in operations and maintenance |
| Learnerships & Apprenticeships | Yes | Formal training with stipends and qualifications |
| Crowdsourcing / Project-Based Roles | Often preferred | Skills-based, competitive, not always clearly defined |
| Informal or Trade-Based Work | No (in some cases) | Trades, self-employment, or informal jobs |
| Adult Matric or Technical Up-Skilling | No | Valid alternative to enable future opportunities |
Final Thoughts
Can you work at Eskom without Matric? The reality is that most formal positions at Eskom do require a Matric certificate or its equivalent. That said, if you are determined to work in the energy sector, don’t give up. Consider completing your Adult Matric or enrolling in a skills programme that can prepare you for future opportunities at Eskom or similar institutions.
Persistence, upskilling, and gaining real-world experience—even outside of Eskom—can help open doors over time.
