Tongaat invite unemployed youth to apply for Engineering Apprenticeship Programme 2026
Tongaat’s 2026 Apprenticeship Programme offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring Fitters, Millwrights and Instrumentation Technicians to gain paid practical training within a dynamic refinery environment in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This career-focused programme is designed for motivated Matric, N2 and N3 engineering candidates who are eager to develop high-demand technical skills, receive mentorship from experienced artisans and gain valuable hands-on experience working with industrial machinery, maintenance systems and refinery operations. Apprentices will benefit from structured workplace learning, exposure to industry-leading safety practices and the opportunity to build a strong foundation for a successful artisan career.
Why this apprenticeship matters
Working at a refinery gives you real-world exposure to heavy industry systems, safety-critical equipment, and team-based problem solving. Employers across South Africa and worldwide value practical trade skills — especially in mechanical fitting, instrumentation, and millwright work. This apprenticeship builds technical expertise that’s highly transferable, well-paid once qualified, and in steady demand. If you want a career that combines steady income, practical problem solving, and the chance to learn from experienced technicians, this role is for you.
Roles available (1 position each)
- Fitter: Learn installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems, piping, valves, pumps, and rotating equipment.
- Instrumentation Technician: Train in calibration, fault finding, and maintenance of control systems, sensors, valves, and electronic instrumentation.
- Millwright: Gain hands-on experience aligning, installing, and servicing heavy machinery, gearboxes, bearings, and driven equipment.
Location and contract details
- Job location: Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa.
- Job type: Contract apprenticeship with structured on-the-job training.
- Reference: 2000483719
- Application closing date: 26 June 2026, 22:59
Who we’re looking for
We want motivated young people who bring strong basics, a positive attitude, and a genuine interest in technical trades. To apply you must have:
- Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- N2/N3 with relevant Engineering Trade Theory subjects (or equivalent).
- Honesty, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
- Self-motivation, eagerness to learn, and good communication skills.
- A willingness to follow safety procedures and work as part of a team.
What you’ll learn and do
- Hands-on mechanical and electrical skills: fitting, alignment, welding basics, fault finding, and component replacement.
- Instrumentation and control: sensor calibration, loop checks, PLC basics, and maintenance of analog/digital instrumentation.
- Machinery servicing: dismantling, inspecting, and reassembling pumps, compressors, gearboxes, and associated systems.
- Safety and compliance: permit-to-work systems, lockout/tagout, confined-space practice, hazard identification, and safe work practices.
Application process
- Prepare a simple CV highlighting education (Matric, N2/N3), any practical experience (school workshops, part-time jobs, internships), and contact details.
- Include a brief cover note explaining which role you’re applying for (Fitter, Instrumentation, or Millwright) and why you want to pursue an apprenticeship.
- Submit your application before 26 June 2026, 22:59. Late applications may not be considered.
Tips to make your application stand out
- Highlight practical experience: mention any vocational classes, technical workshops, or hands-on projects.
- Show intent: briefly describe career goals (e.g., “I want to become a qualified fitter and eventually supervise maintenance teams”).