The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) is a public company wholly owned by the State, responsible for undertaking and promoting research and development in the field of nuclear energy and radiation sciences and technology. Its headquarters are located at Pelindaba, approximately 25km west of Pretoria. Necsa’s primary mandate is to develop, utilise, and manage nuclear technology for national and regional socio-economic development in South Africa.

About the Radiation Protection Learnership Programme

Necsa’s Radiation Protection Technician (RPT) Learnership Programme offers a rare opportunity to enter the specialised and high-demand field of radiation protection. This programme equips learners with theoretical knowledge and hands-on exposure to nuclear safety, workplace radiological monitoring, and contamination control.

Learners will undergo both theoretical training and On-The-Job Training (OJT) at Necsa facilities, where they will gain real-world experience alongside nuclear industry experts.

This is your chance to join the forefront of nuclear safety and build a rewarding career in a critical and growing field.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• South African citizens aged 18–35 years
• Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Sciences

You must upload the following documents online:

• Personal and qualification details
• Certified copy of RSA Identity Document
• Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
• Proof of residence

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to write an aptitude assessment test.

Programme Outcomes: What You Will Learn

After completing the Radiation Protection Learnership, learners will be able to:

• Communicate effectively about workplace radiation hazards
• Conduct radiation and contamination monitoring
• Select the correct monitoring equipment based on:
  • Type
  • Purpose
  • Location of measurement
• Perform radiation and contamination monitoring according to procedures
• Apply radiation protection measures
• Manage workplace relations to maintain productivity

Background theory includes:

• Basic radiation protection
• How monitoring equipment works
• Factors influencing measurement reliability
• Radiological surveillance requirements

Career Opportunities After Completion

Successful learners will be able to work as Radiation Protection Officers across multiple sectors, including:

• Mining
• Medical institutions
• Nuclear installations (e.g., Necsa, Koeberg Nuclear Power Station)
• Construction
• Industrial radiography sites
• Environmental and safety agencies