Imagine starting your career climbing towers, installing fiber cables, and keeping South Africa’s mobile networks running smoothly. The Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership 2026 gives young people a real chance to gain hands-on skills in telecommunications. This 12-month program starts on June 1, 2026, and pays a monthly stipend while teaching practical work in network operations.
What Is the Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership 2026?
This learnership introduces participants to the daily tasks of telecom network operations. It mixes classroom training with fieldwork on sites like towers and fiber lines. Expect outdoor work, physical tasks, and travel, not just desk jobs.
The program focuses on areas like network maintenance, equipment installation, and safety procedures. It leads to a National Certificate at NQF Level 4 with SAQA ID 59057. Based mainly in East London, Eastern Cape, it runs until May 31, 2027.
Key Programme Details
Here’s a quick overview of the main facts:
| Programme Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Company | Ericsson |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| SAQA ID | 59057 |
| NQF Level | 4 |
| Start Date | 1 June 2026 |
| End Date | 31 May 2027 |
| Primary Location | East London, Eastern Cape |
| Head Office Location | Woodmead, South Africa |
| Reference Number | Req ID: 784797 |
| Monthly Stipend | Yes |
| Travel Required | Yes, within the Eastern Cape after 4-6 months |
| Minimum Qualification | Matric or ICT/Networking-related qualification |
| Closing Date | Not specified |
Use reference number 784797 when applying.
Who Should Apply for This Learnership?
This fits people who like hands-on tech work over office computers. It’s ideal if you enjoy telecommunications infrastructure, tower support, fiber installs, or field maintenance. You need to be okay with physical jobs, outdoor settings, and team efforts.
If solving tech problems outdoors appeals to you, this program builds real skills for ICT careers.
Training Tasks for Learners
Under guidance, you’ll learn to handle key network jobs. Tasks include climbing towers safely, installing antennas and microwave dishes, and working with fiber optics. You’ll also repair gear, test cables, and join upgrades or emergency fixes.
Other duties cover using ropes and pulleys, following safety rules, and aiding audits. Completing Ericsson’s tower training is part of it. This builds know-how in how networks stay up and running.
Minimum Academic Requirements
You need at least a Matric certificate, best with technical subjects. TVET diplomas in IT, ICT, telecoms, or electronics work too. Degrees from tech universities in networking or telecoms count as well.
A tech background helps, but drive and reliability matter in field roles.
Required Skills and Qualities
Show these to stand out: clear English speaking, eagerness to learn, and teamwork. Handle pressure, stay organized, and adapt to changes. Basic knowledge of networks, Ethernet, power systems, or cable testing helps.
Be ready for outdoors, with a solid work ethic. Safety focus and communication keep teams safe on sites.
Location and Travel Needs
Main base is East London, Eastern Cape. Live nearby if possible. After early training, expect trips across the province to sites.
Work happens where the networks are, so travel is key.
Documents for Your Application
Prepare these: updated CV, certified ID copy, and certified qualification copies. Keep them clear and recent. Add details on CV like ICT projects or hands-on experience to show field readiness.
Benefits of Joining
Get a monthly stipend plus industry exposure. Build skills in telecoms, safety, and networking. Gain mentorship, workplace practice, and confidence for jobs.
It’s a bridge from school to tech careers for unemployed youth.
Challenges to Expect
Prep for heights, weather, lifting, and travel. Shifts, weekends, and emergencies add demands. Strict safety rules apply.
Office fans might struggle, but it’s great for field lovers.
Tips to Boost Your Application
Highlight education, tech subjects, and projects on your CV. Note interest in telecoms, problem-solving, or safety. Show discipline and any volunteer work.
Employers prize reliability as much as grades.
How to Submit Your Application
Apply online via the official Ericsson careers portal at jobs.ericsson.com. Search with Req ID: 784797. Submit soon, as no closing date is set.