Bidvest Tank Terminals – Apprenticeship Programme 2026
Company: Bidvest Tank Terminals Reference number: BTT261106-2 Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal Department: Maintenance Programme duration: 36 months (3 years)
Number of positions: 5 Job type: Contract Trades available:
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Millwright
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Mechanical Fitter
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Boilermaker
This is an opportunity for young South Africans who want to develop technical skills and qualify in an engineering trade. The programme combines classroom-based theoretical learning with practical workplace training and concludes with a trade test.
1. More information about the three trades
Millwright Apprentice
You will learn how to install, maintain, inspect and repair industrial machinery, electrical motors, pumps, gearboxes and mechanical equipment.
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Mechanical and electrical maintenance
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Fault-finding and repairs
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Installation of industrial equipment
Mechanical Fitter Apprentice
You will learn to assemble, install, maintain and repair mechanical equipment.
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Fitting and assembly of machine components
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Bearings, shafts and pumps
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Equipment inspection and maintenance
Boilermaker Apprentice
You will learn to manufacture, repair and maintain metal structures and industrial equipment.
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Welding and metal fabrication
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Cutting, measuring and shaping steel
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Working with pipes, tanks and steel structures
These are typical activities associated with each trade, not a confirmed detailed BTT training syllabus.
2. Minimum requirements
Applicants must:
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Be South African citizens.
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Have a valid South African ID.
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Be between 18 and 30 years old.
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Have Grade 12 (Matric).
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Have Mathematics.
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Have Physical Science.
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Be willing and able to work in a chemical plant environment.
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Have a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Important: The advert specifically mentions Mathematics and Physical Science. Mathematical Literacy is not listed as an alternative.
3. Training and programme benefits
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36 months of apprenticeship training.
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Theoretical training at an accredited training centre.
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Practical workplace experience at Bidvest Tank Terminals.
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Exposure to industrial maintenance operations.
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Development of technical and engineering skills.
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Opportunity to prepare for a relevant trade test.
Successful completion of the required training and trade test can lead to recognition as a qualified artisan in the relevant trade.
4. Salary / stipend
The Richards Bay vacancy does not specify:
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Monthly stipend.
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Salary amount.
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Accommodation arrangements.
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Transport allowance.
Applicants should confirm these details with the employer rather than relying on unofficial salary estimates.
5. Documents to prepare
The advert does not provide a complete document checklist. However, prepare the following:
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Updated and detailed CV.
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Certified copy of South African ID.
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Certified Matric certificate.
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Matric results showing Mathematics and Physical Science.
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Any relevant technical qualifications or certificates, if available.
6. How to apply
Applications are submitted through the official Bidvest Tank Terminals recruitment website.
Official application
Reference: BTT261106-2
Check that the vacancy title is APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITY and the location is Richards Bay.
Source: Official Bidvest Tank Terminals recruitment portal.
7. Important things applicants should know
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There are 5 positions in total, shared across the three trades, not five positions per trade.
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Previous work experience is not stated as a minimum requirement.
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The advert does not guarantee permanent employment after the apprenticeship.
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BTT states that internal candidates may be considered first in line with its Employment Equity policy.
8. Closing date
13 November 2026
Friday
Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Number of vacancies: 5
Reference: BTT261106-2
Why is this opportunity important?
This apprenticeship is valuable for young people who want to enter the engineering and artisan industry. It provides three years of structured theoretical and practical training, workplace exposure and preparation for a trade test. It can help candidates build a career in industrial maintenance, manufacturing, chemical plants and engineering.
My recommendation: If you meet the age and subject requirements, apply as soon as possible. Do not wait until the closing date.