The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) has officially opened applications for its 2026/27 Radiation Protection Technician (RPT) Learnership, inviting young South Africans to pursue a specialised pathway in radiation safety and monitoring.
Released under Reference Number NE-801, the programme offers a unique combination of academic theory and practical training within one of the country’s most advanced nuclear environments. Applications close on Friday, 28 November 2025, and all submissions must be completed online.
The RPT Learnership is widely recognised as one of South Africa’s most comprehensive entry points into radiation protection, a profession that plays a critical role in nuclear operations, medical facilities, industrial processing and mining.
Programme Overview
NECSA’s Radiation Protection Learnership equips learners with foundational knowledge and hands-on skills required to work safely and effectively with radiation monitoring and contamination control systems.
The programme includes:
- Structured theoretical training
- On-the-Job Training (OJT) at NECSA Group facilities
- Workplace assignments guided by experienced radiation professionals
- Practical assessments and competency evaluations
Through this combination of learning methods, participants gain real experience within an environment governed by stringent safety regulations and scientific standards. The programme typically spans 1–2 years, depending on training requirements and assessment schedules.
NECSA emphasises that this learnership does not guarantee employment at the organisation, but the skills gained are sought after across multiple industries.
What Learners Will Gain
The RPT Learnership prepares participants to operate confidently in workplaces where radiation exposure risk must be monitored, assessed and controlled. When learners complete the programme, they will be able to:
Technical Skills
- Explain the hazards associated with radiation and contamination
- Communicate effectively about radiation risks and workplace safety
- Conduct workplace radiation monitoring
- Perform contamination assessments in different environments
- Select the appropriate measurement instruments for various conditions
- Evaluate readings and record measurements accurately
- Apply radiation protection procedures consistently
Workplace Competencies
- Develop professional communication and interpersonal skills
- Manage daily tasks and responsibilities in controlled environments
- Understand compliance requirements for radiological surveillance
- Follow established safety protocols and operational guidelines
In addition to these skills, the programme provides the background science needed to understand why radiation behaves the way it does, how detection equipment works, and which factors influence measurement quality.
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Theoretical Training Components
Learners receive classroom-based instruction covering essential topics such as:
- Fundamentals of radiation and radiation protection
- Types of radiation and their effects
- Principles of contamination control
- Operation of radiation detection and monitoring equipment
- Factors affecting measurement reliability
- Safety legislation and South African regulatory standards
- Radiological surveillance requirements
This theoretical foundation is reinforced during practical training, allowing learners to apply knowledge directly in real-world scenarios.
Career Paths After Completing the Learnership
Graduates of the NECSA RPT Learnership are equipped to work as Radiation Protection Officers or Radiation Technicians in several professional environments, including:
- Nuclear power and research facilities
- Mining operations involving naturally occurring radioactive materials
- Hospitals and medical imaging departments
- Industrial radiography and construction
- Laboratories and scientific research institutions
Radiation protection specialists are essential for ensuring compliance with safety standards, preventing contamination, and protecting worker health. Demand for trained professionals continues to grow as industries expand their use of radiation-based technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
NECSA is seeking motivated individuals eager to enter a technical field that requires precision, responsibility and scientific understanding. To be considered for the learnership, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
Age and Education
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old
- Grade 12 qualification with Mathematics and Physical Sciences
Documents Required
Applicants must upload the following documents on the electronic application platform:
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document
- Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
- Proof of residential address
- Complete personal and educational information
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to take an aptitude assessment test. This evaluation forms a key part of the selection process.
Important Admission Notes
NECSA highlights the following conditions for applicants:
- Only South African citizens are eligible
- No hand-delivered applications will be accepted
- Accommodation will not be provided
- Admission to the programme does not guarantee employment
- Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- Individuals who previously participated in any NECSA learnership or internship may not apply
Application Reference Codes by Province
Applicants must include the correct reference code corresponding to their home province. Failure to include the appropriate code may result in disqualification.
| Province | Reference Code |
|---|---|
| Eastern Cape | RPTEC2026 |
| Free State | RPTFS2026 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | RPTKZN2026 |
| Limpopo | RPTLIMP2026 |
| Mpumalanga | RPTMP2026 |
| Northern Cape | RPTNC2026 |
| North West | RPTNW2026 |
Using the correct reference ensures that applications are routed through the appropriate provincial channel.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through NECSA’s recruitment portal.
Apply here:
https://necsa.mcidirecthire.com/External/CurrentOpportunities
Closing date: Friday, 28 November 2025
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their documents well before the deadline to avoid technical issues and ensure timely processing.
Contact Details for Enquiries
Applicants who require additional information about the Radiation Protection Learnership can reach NECSA through:
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 012 305 3901 / 3809
If applicants do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, their application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
Conclusion
NECSA’s 2026 Radiation Protection Technician Learnership presents a rare opportunity for South African youth to break into a highly specialised and impactful field. By combining scientific theory with practical workplace exposure, the programme prepares learners to support safety-critical operations across nuclear, medical, mining and industrial sectors.
For individuals seeking a career that blends science, safety, technology and national development, the RPT Learnership offers a strong and meaningful foundation.
