South African Unemployed youth who want to kickstart their Career on Engineering which focuses on Fitting including Machining and Boilermaking Are Invited to Apply for the Impala Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme for the Academic year 2026.If you are a Mechanical Engineering or Boilermaking student with an N2 or NCV Level 4 qualification this Opportunity is yours
About Impala Platinum
We are a leading fully integrated platinum group metals (PGMs) producer. The Group is structured around six mining operations, refining and processing facilities, and a refining business, Impala Refining Services (IRS).
Implats employs more than 66 000 people across its operations. Our people are the heartbeat of our Company and through our values – to respect, care and deliver – we foster a culture of teamwork and accountability.
Programme Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Impala Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Company | Impala Platinum Refineries (Implats) |
| Location | Springs, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Fields Available | Fitting including Machining; Boilermaking |
| Programme Duration | 42 Months |
| Commencement Date | August 2026 |
| Department | Human Resources – Training and Development |
| Certification Awarded | Trade Test Certificate under the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) |
| Closing Date | 11 March 2026 |
Fields Available in the Learnership
Applicants can apply for training in the following engineering trades:
1. Fitting including Machining
This trade focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems used in industrial operations.
2. Boilermaking
Boilermakers specialize in fabricating, assembling, and repairing metal structures and heavy equipment used in mining and industrial environments.
Both fields provide highly valuable technical skills that are in demand across many industries.
Engineering Learner: Fitting Including Machining
One of the learnership streams offered by Impala Platinum focuses on Mechanical Fitting including Machining.
Fitters play a critical role in maintaining and repairing industrial machinery used in mining and processing plants.
During the programme, learners will receive extensive training in mechanical maintenance and equipment servicing.
What You Will Learn
As a Fitting Engineering Learner, you will gain hands-on experience in:
- Mechanical equipment maintenance
- Assembly and disassembly of machines
- Alignment of mechanical components
- Preventative maintenance procedures
- Use of precision measuring tools
- Interpretation of engineering drawings
- Machine fitting and installation
- Fault finding and repairs
You will also develop strong practical skills in maintaining plant equipment within safe operating parameters.
This type of training is essential in mining environments where machinery operates continuously and reliability is critical.
Engineering Learner: Boilermaking
The second stream available in the programme focuses on Boilermaking, a trade that involves metal fabrication, structural steel work, and heavy industrial maintenance.
Boilermakers are responsible for constructing, installing, and repairing large metal structures used in mining plants.
What You Will Learn
During the Boilermaking Learnership, participants will receive training in:
- Structural steel fabrication
- Industrial welding techniques
- Plant equipment maintenance
- Metal cutting and shaping
- Reading engineering drawings
- Installation of industrial structures
- Equipment repair and maintenance
Learners will also gain experience working in production-driven refinery environments, where safety and precision are extremely important.
This training prepares learners to become fully qualified Boilermaker Artisans.
Programme Structure and Training Model
The Implats Engineering Learnership follows a structured artisan training model combining theoretical learning and practical workplace experience.
The programme lasts 42 months and typically includes:
Phase 1: Foundational Training
- Introduction to workplace safety
- Basic engineering theory
- Workshop practice
- Equipment familiarisation
Phase 2: Workplace Training
Learners rotate through various plant sections where they gain practical exposure to:
- Mechanical systems
- Maintenance processes
- Fabrication work
- Equipment diagnostics
Phase 3: Advanced Practical Skills
Participants develop deeper technical skills such as:
- Precision measurement
- Engineering drawing interpretation
- Maintenance planning
- Plant troubleshooting
Phase 4: Trade Test Preparation
At the end of the programme, learners prepare for the Trade Test Certification, conducted under the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA).
Successfully passing the trade test allows learners to qualify as certified artisans.
READ: SASSA Internship Programme 2026 and TVET Work Integrated Learning Opportunities
Minimum Requirements
To apply for this programme, candidates must meet the following requirements.
For Fitting including Machining
Applicants must have:
- N2 Certificate or NCV Level 4 in Mechanical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Fitter Trade Theory
- Engineering Drawing
Candidates must also have:
- Basic understanding of mechanical trade principles
- Medical fitness to work in mining plants
For Boilermaking
Applicants must have:
- N2 Certificate or NCV Level 4 in Boilermaking
Required subjects include:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Structural Steel Drawing
- Plater Trade Theory
Candidates must also demonstrate:
- Basic knowledge of boilermaking principles
- Medical fitness to work at refinery plants
Required Documents on Applications
Applicants must upload the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic qualifications
- Statement of results
Important application rule:
All documents must be combined into one single PDF file before submission.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Application Closing Date
Closing Date: 11 March 2026.
Get More Opportunities
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Apply for Learnerships Programme
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How to Apply for the Impala Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme 2026
1. Prepare the Required Documents
2. Visit the Official Careers Portal (www.implats.co.za or www.pnet.co.za )
3. Complete the Online Application Form
4. Upload Your Supporting Documents
5. Submit Your Application
6. Wait for Shortlisting
 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Impala Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme 2026?
It is a structured technical training programme offered by Impala Platinum that combines theoretical learning with practical workplace experience in engineering trades.
Where is the learnership located?
The programme takes place at Impala Platinum Refineries in Springs, Gauteng, South Africa.
Which trades are available in the programme?
The learnership offers training in Fitting including Machining and Boilermaking.
How long does the learnership last?
The programme runs for 42 months.
When will the programme start?
The learnership is expected to commence in August 2026.
What qualification will learners receive?
Successful learners will obtain a Trade Test Certificate accredited by the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA).
Who can apply for the programme?
South African youth interested in engineering trades and meeting the programme requirements can apply.
Is the programme accredited?
Yes, the programme leads to certification under the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA).
What skills will learners gain?
Learners will gain practical engineering, machinery maintenance, metal fabrication, and industrial safety skills.
Is practical training included?
Yes, learners receive hands-on workplace training alongside theoretical instruction.
Does the programme help with career development?
Yes, it prepares learners for artisan careers in mining, manufacturing, and engineering industries.
Is the Trade Test nationally recognized?
Yes, the Trade Test Certificate is recognized across South Africa.
What industry is this learnership related to?
It is related to the mining and engineering industries.
What department manages the programme?
The programme is managed by the Human Resources – Training and Development department at Impala Platinum.
What is the closing date for applications?
The application deadline is 11 March 2026.
Why should I apply for this learnership?
It offers technical training, industry experience, and a pathway to becoming a qualified artisan.
Can the qualification help with future jobs?
Yes, qualified artisans are in high demand in South Africa and internationally.
Does the programme include mentorship?
Yes, learners are guided by experienced artisans and industry professionals.
Is engineering a good career choice in South Africa?
Yes, engineering and technical trades remain essential sectors with strong employment opportunities.
Where can I apply for the Impala Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme?
Applications are typically submitted through official Impala Platinum recruitment platforms or authorized application channels.
