Company: DHL Global Forwarding
Industry: Logistics & Freight Forwarding
Job Category: Learnership / Graduate Programme
Location: Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Johannesburg – South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (12 Months)
Remuneration: Monthly Stipend
EE Position: Yes
Closing Date: Not Specified (Apply Immediately)
Introduction
Are you a young South African citizen looking to start a meaningful career in the global logistics and freight forwarding industry? DHL Global Forwarding, a division of DHL Group and the world’s most international logistics company, is offering unemployed youth a life-changing opportunity through its 2024/2025 Learnership Programme.
Operating in over 220 countries, DHL has long been a pioneer in international express shipping, road, air, and ocean freight logistics. The Clearing and Forwarding Learnership (NQF Level 5) offers practical skills development, theoretical training, and immersive workplace experience—all designed to empower youth with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in a high-paced, global industry.
Job Description
The DHL Learnership Programme is a 12-month structured opportunity offering unemployed youth the chance to gain valuable skills and exposure within the logistics and freight forwarding environment. Learners will be placed at DHL’s offices in Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, depending on operational needs.
In this Learner role, your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting the import and export operations under supervision
- Assisting in managing freight documentation (receiving, reconciling, summarizing, and filing)
- Executing basic back-office functions including scanning, record-keeping, and reporting
- Maintaining operational and system compliance as per DHL’s standards
- Participating in team discussions and internal learning forums
- Adhering to standard operating procedures and customer service guidelines
- Interacting with colleagues and learning how to communicate effectively within a global business environment
This programme blends on-the-job learning with academic coursework, equipping learners with the technical, regulatory, and operational insights necessary for success in freight logistics.
Ideal Candidate
To be successful in the DHL Global Forwarding Learnership Programme, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must have completed Grade 12 (Matric) with a minimum of 65% in English
- Ages 18 to 30 years old at the time of application
- Must be unemployed and not enrolled in any other study programme
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be available to commit for the full 12-month duration of the programme
- Basic computer literacy (especially Microsoft Office) is an added advantage
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in logistics, supply chain, or international trade
- Strong work ethic, integrity, willingness to learn, and an eagerness to grow
Role Responsibility
As a DHL Learnership participant, your role will involve both administrative support and hands-on exposure to global supply chain processes:
- Process import/export documentation
- Support DHL teams with customer service, freight bookings, and cargo tracking
- Learn and apply international customs regulations and trade compliance procedures
- Execute tasks with speed, accuracy, and efficiency
- Collaborate with mentors and team leaders for feedback and personal development
- Participate in internal workshops, simulations, and training sessions
This dynamic, learner-focused role provides a front-row seat to DHL’s cutting-edge systems, processes, and client solutions.
Skills and Attributes
To thrive in this high-performance learning environment, candidates should display the following skills and personal qualities:
- Good written and verbal communication
- Attention to detail and accuracy in completing tasks
- Ability to manage time and prioritize responsibilities
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Demonstrate initiative, discipline, and self-motivation
- High level of integrity and respect for confidentiality
- Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, tech-driven environment
Position Summary
The DHL Clearing and Forwarding NQF 5 Learnership is not just a short-term training programme—it is a launchpad into a meaningful career in global logistics. Learners will be immersed in DHL’s operations and supported by experienced professionals who will guide their journey every step of the way.
Programme Highlights:
- 12-month fixed-term learnership contract
- Placement in Durban, PE, Cape Town, or Johannesburg
- Nationally recognized NQF Level 5 qualification in Freight Forwarding
- Monthly stipend provided
- Exposure to DHL’s international freight network and best practices
- Personal and career development support through mentoring
- Possible consideration for long-term employment upon successful completion
Upon successful completion, candidates are well-positioned to pursue permanent roles in shipping, logistics coordination, customs compliance, warehousing, and more.
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How to Apply
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about joining the world’s most international logistics provider, don’t delay—apply today! Prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV / Resume
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate
- Any additional relevant documentation (e.g., computer skills certificates)
You can apply through the official DHL Careers Portal or local DHL offices by submitting your application with all the supporting documents. Be sure to check https://www.logistics.dhl/us-en/home/careers.html for any additional updates or vacancy details.
Our Conclusion
The DHL Learnership Programme 2024/2025 is more than just an internship—it’s your entry point into a global industry filled with growth, innovation, and purpose. DHL doesn’t just deliver goods—it delivers careers, opportunities, and a better future.
By joining this learnership, you’ll gain practical experience, national certification, and a chance to contribute to a company whose mission is “Excellence. Simply Delivered.” If you’re ambitious, reliable, and eager to learn in a real-world business setting, this opportunity is your first step toward a career in global logistics.
Start your journey with DHL Global Forwarding and connect with the world—one shipment at a time.