Nelson Mandela University invites passionate graduates to join South Africa’s leading electric mobility programme

Are you ready to be part of South Africa’s clean energy revolution? uYilo, the country’s premier electric mobility programme, is offering an exceptional opportunity for motivated graduates to launch their careers in the dynamic field of energy storage and sustainable transport.

About This Opportunity

We are seeking enthusiastic and innovative graduates for an 11-month fixed-term contract running from 1 February 2026 to 31 December 2026. This internship offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of energy storage in South Africa and beyond.

What You’ll Experience

As a uYilo intern, you’ll be immersed in real-world projects that matter. Your work will span laboratory quality management systems including ISO and SANAS compliance, writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and implementing Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). You’ll gain practical experience in the safe handling of battery manufacturing materials, conduct testing on batteries and raw materials, and engage in critical day-to-day laboratory activities.

Beyond technical skills, you’ll develop professionally through research initiatives, participating in proposal writing, literature searches, experiment execution, and reporting. You’ll strengthen your technical, quality, and project management capabilities while working alongside industry experts who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of energy storage professionals.

Your Responsibilities

Interns will actively contribute to energy storage projects aligned with operational plans, support ISO 17025 laboratory system development, and participate in training sessions designed to enhance both technical expertise and professional skills. This is a collaborative environment where your ideas matter and your contributions will have real impact.

Who Should Apply

We’re looking for graduates who have completed a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in chemistry, electrical engineering, or energy storage-related fields within the last three years. Candidates with qualifications in quality management systems or demonstrated laboratory quality system expertise (ISO 9001, GLP) are particularly encouraged to apply.

The programme is specifically open to students enrolled for the 2026 academic year.

The Ideal Candidate

Beyond qualifications, we’re seeking individuals with curiosity and passion for innovation, excellent English communication skills, and strong organizational abilities. You should demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to contribute meaningfully within a team environment. We value candidates who are willing to work across disciplines, possess good time management skills, can multi-task under pressure, and have strong presentation abilities.

Why uYilo?

uYilo is driving innovation in energy storage and sustainable transport, positioning South Africa at the forefront of clean energy technology. This internship offers more than just work experience – it’s a launchpad for an impactful career in a growing sector that’s critical to our country’s sustainable future.

Working hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:30, providing a structured professional environment where you can thrive.

Application Details

Deadline: Friday, 20 October 2025

Submit your detailed Curriculum Vitae, full academic record, and a compelling covering letter explaining how you meet the selection criteria to: uYilotesting@mandela.ac.za

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Nelson Mandela University is committed to transformation and actively encourages candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds to apply. All shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date. If you haven’t heard from us by then, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Join us in shaping the future of clean energy. Apply today.