South Africa’s mining sector remains one of the country’s largest employers of skilled artisans. For young people who have completed Matric, NCV qualifications, or technical studies and are looking for an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience, the Exxaro Matla Coal Engineering Learnership Programme could be a valuable stepping stone.
Exxaro Coal Mpumalanga is offering engineering learnership opportunities at its Matla Coal operation in Kriel, Mpumalanga. This programme combines structured learning with practical workplace exposure, helping learners develop the skills needed to pursue careers in engineering trades within the mining industry.
Applications close on 25 June 2026.
Quick Overview
- Opportunity: Engineering Learnership Programme 2026
- Organisation: Exxaro Matla Coal
- Location: Kriel, Mpumalanga
- Closing Date: 25 June 2026
Fields of Training:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Electrical
- Fitting (Including Machining)
- Fitter and Turner
- Plater Boilermaker
Programme Type:
- Structured Learnership
- Workplace-based Training
- Engineering Development Programme
Community Requirement:
- Applicants must reside within the Ga-Nala community
Understanding the Engineering Learnership
The Exxaro Engineering Learnership consists of:
- Structured unit-standard-based learning
- Practical workplace training
- Exposure to real engineering environments
- Skills development under qualified supervision
- Preparation for artisan career pathways
Unlike classroom-only education, a learnership allows participants to apply theoretical knowledge in a real workplace while learning industry standards, safety procedures, and practical technical skills.
This combination makes learners more employable once they complete their training.
Engineering Trades Available
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel Mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing heavy-duty mining equipment and machinery powered by diesel engines.
Typical duties include:
- Engine maintenance
- Fault diagnosis
- Equipment inspections
- Repairs and servicing
- Performance testing
Mining companies rely heavily on skilled diesel mechanics to keep production equipment operational.
Electrical
Electrical learners develop skills related to:
- Electrical installations
- Maintenance of electrical systems
- Fault finding
- Electrical safety procedures
- Equipment testing
Qualified electricians are consistently in demand across multiple industries.
Fitting (Including Machining)
Fitters work with mechanical equipment and machinery used in industrial environments.
Training may include:
- Machine maintenance
- Equipment assembly
- Precision measurements
- Mechanical repairs
- Workshop practices
Fitter and Turner
This trade combines fitting skills with precision machining techniques.
Learners may gain experience in:
- Operating machine tools
- Manufacturing components
- Mechanical fitting
- Reading engineering drawings
- Precision engineering
Plater Boilermaker
Boilermakers fabricate, assemble, and repair steel structures and equipment.
Skills may include:
- Structural fabrication
- Welding-related activities
- Reading technical drawings
- Manufacturing metal components
- Maintenance of mining structures
Qualifications and Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements.
Option 1: Grade 12 / Standard 10
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 / Standard 10
- Minimum E Symbol or 40% and above in:
- English
- Mathematics
Important:
- Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
Option 2: NCV Level 4
Applicants may also apply if they possess:
- NCV Level 4
- Minimum E Symbol or 40% and above in all subjects
Option 3: Technical High School Learners
Applicants who completed Grade 12 or Standard 10 at a Technical High School may qualify if they have:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technical Drawing
All subjects must be passed with:
- E Symbol or 40% and above
Additional Trade-Specific Requirements
Applicants must also possess:
For Most Trades
- Minimum N2 qualification
- All four trade theory subjects completed
For Plater Boilermaker
Applicants must have:
- Structural Steel Drawings as one of the four required subjects
These additional requirements help ensure candidates have the necessary technical foundation for artisan development.
Application Requirements
To be considered, candidates must:
- Successfully complete the selection process
- Reside within the Ga-Nala community
- Provide proof of residence
The residency requirement is important and forms part of Exxaro’s commitment to community development.
What Will Learners Be Expected to Do?
Successful candidates will be expected to:
- Participate fully in the training programme
- Maintain satisfactory performance levels
- Follow workplace rules and regulations
- Demonstrate commitment to learning
- Complete all required assessments
- Adhere to safety standards
Engineering learnerships are demanding and require discipline, commitment, and a willingness to continuously learn.
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE EXXARO COAL: ENGINEERING LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Documents You Should Prepare
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Certified NCV certificate (if applicable)
- N2 qualification documents
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of residence
- Additional trade-related certificates
Ensure all documents are clear and easy to read before uploading.
Related Articles:
Understanding N2, N3, N4 and Trade Test Requirements in South Africa
Artisan Trades Explained: Which Trade Is Right for You?
Apprenticeship / Artisan Supporting Documents Checklist in South Africa
Interview Questions and Answers for Apprenticeship / Artisan Jobs in South Africa: A Complete Guide
How to Write a Winning Motivational Letter for an Apprenticeship / Artisan Job in South Africa
How to Write a Winning CV for Apprenticeship / Artisan Job Applications in South Africa
How to Prove You Are Unemployed in South Africa
The Difference Between Being Qualified and Being Employable in 2026
How to Build Work Experience Without a Job in South Africa in 2026
Edupstairs Advice
Engineering learnerships offered by established mining companies are highly competitive because they provide practical experience that many employers value.
Before applying:
- Ensure your CV is updated.
- Verify that all qualifications meet the requirements.
- Prepare certified supporting documents.
- Apply well before the closing date.
- Research the trade you are interested in pursuing.
- Be prepared for assessments and interviews.
If you meet the requirements and are passionate about becoming an artisan, this opportunity could be an excellent foundation for a long-term career in engineering and mining.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Where is the learnership located?
The programme is based at Exxaro Matla Coal in Kriel, Mpumalanga.
- When is the closing date?
Applications close on 25 June 2026.
- Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
No. The advert specifically states that Mathematical Literacy is not applicable.
- Can qualified artisans apply?
No. Qualified artisans will not be considered during the selection process.
- Is proof of residence required?
Yes. Applicants must reside within the Ga-Nala community and provide proof of residence.
- Do I need an N2 qualification?
Yes. Applicants must possess a minimum N2 qualification with all four required trade subjects.
- Can I email my application?
No. Email applications will not be accepted.
- Will completing the learnership guarantee employment?
No. Completion of the programme does not automatically guarantee permanent employment.
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not the recruiting organisation. Applicants should verify all information and submit applications through the official Exxaro recruitment platform before the closing date.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY