For many young South Africans, becoming a qualified artisan is one of the most reliable pathways to long-term employment. If you have a passion for engineering, mechanical work, and the mining industry, the Seriti Engineering Learnership Programme 18.2 External Intake 2026 offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical workplace experience while working towards a recognised artisan qualification.
Seriti is inviting applications from eligible candidates, particularly those from the New Vaal Colliery host communities in the Free State, to join its Engineering Learnership Programme in two highly sought-after trades: Diesel Mechanic and Auto Electrician.
Applications close on 21 July 2026, so interested candidates should prepare their documents as early as possible.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | Details |
| Programme | Seriti Engineering Learnership Programme 18.2 External Intake 2026 |
| Company | Seriti |
| Division | New Vaal Colliery |
| Location | Free State |
| Reference Number | NVC071/26GS |
| Closing Date | 21 July 2026 |
| Experience Required | Entry Level |
| Industry | Mining and Metals |
| Trades Available | Diesel Mechanic, Auto Electrician |
| Community Preference | New Vaal Colliery Host Communities |
What is the Seriti Engineering Learnership Programme?
The Seriti Engineering Learnership Programme is designed to develop the next generation of qualified artisans within South Africa’s mining industry.
Unlike ordinary jobs, a learnership combines structured classroom learning with extensive practical workplace training. During the programme, learners receive hands-on experience under experienced artisans while completing the theoretical requirements needed to qualify in their chosen trade.
Upon successful completion, learners become eligible to progress towards artisan certification under Section 18.2 engineering training requirements, opening doors to employment opportunities across mining, manufacturing, construction and industrial sectors.
Trades Available
Applicants may apply for one of the following engineering trades.
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel Mechanics specialise in:
- Heavy mining machinery
- Earthmoving equipment
- Loaders
- Haul trucks
- Excavators
- Diesel-powered engines
- Hydraulic systems
- Mechanical repairs
Qualified Diesel Mechanics remain in high demand throughout South Africa.
Auto Electrician
Auto Electricians focus on electrical systems found in heavy mining equipment, including:
- Electrical diagnostics
- Vehicle wiring
- Electronic control systems
- Sensors
- Alternators
- Starter motors
- Battery systems
- Fault finding
Modern mining equipment relies heavily on electronic systems, making Auto Electricians one of the fastest-growing artisan careers.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following academic requirements.
Grade 12 Route
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Physical Science
- Minimum E Symbol (40%)
PLUS
Two relevant N2 trade-related subjects.
OR
N2 Route
Applicants may also qualify with:
Minimum N2 qualification including four relevant trade subjects.
Trade Theory Subjects
Diesel Mechanic
Relevant subjects include:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
Auto Electrician
Relevant subjects include:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Industrial Electronics
- Electrical Trade Theory
Additional Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Achieve at least 40% (E Symbol) in required subjects
- Be willing to undergo psychometric assessments
- Be willing to work shifts
- Be available for standby duties
- Respond to call-outs when required
- Work well under pressure
- Be innovative
- Be self-motivated
- Demonstrate problem-solving ability
- Be capable of identifying faults without supervision
- Be able to obtain a Certificate of Fitness
- Hold a valid K53 driver’s licence
Advantageous Qualifications
Although not compulsory, preference may be given to applicants with:
- Previous mining industry exposure
- Relevant engineering experience
- Practical mechanical knowledge
Required Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents.
- PDF version of CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified driver’s licence
- Proof of residence
Important:
All certifications must be less than three months old.
Preference Will Be Given To Local Communities
Seriti has indicated that preference will be given to applicants from the New Vaal Colliery Host Communities.
Applicants claiming community preference must include:
- Valid proof of residence
Failure to submit proof of residence may affect your application.
Important Employment Conditions
Applicants should note the following:
- No criminal record
- Must indicate the trade applied for
- Employment Equity principles will apply
- Shortlisted applicants only will be contacted
- Applications not responded to within 30 days after closing should be regarded as unsuccessful
Skills You Will Develop
During the programme, learners can expect to develop practical skills in areas such as:
- Mechanical maintenance
- Electrical diagnostics
- Preventative maintenance
- Fault finding
- Workshop safety
- Engineering drawings
- Technical reporting
- Equipment servicing
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Workplace discipline
These skills remain valuable across multiple industries.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit an online application before the closing date.
When applying:
- Use Google Chrome as your browser.
- Upload a PDF version of your CV.
- Attach certified copies of all required documents.
- Include proof of residence if applying under the host community preference.
- Clearly indicate your chosen trade.
Reference Number: NVC071/26GS
Closing Date: 21 July 2026
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.
APPLY FOR THE SERITI ENGINEERING LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 18.2 EXTERNAL INTAKE 2026 HERE
Tips Before You Apply
Before submitting your application:
- Ensure all documents are certified within three months.
- Convert your CV into PDF format.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are readable.
- Clearly state whether you are applying for Diesel Mechanic or Auto Electrician.
- Use Google Chrome when completing the online application, as recommended by Seriti.
- Ensure your contact details are correct and active.
Submitting a complete application improves your chances of being shortlisted.
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
What to Write in an Email When Sending Your CV
Edupstairs Advice
Engineering learnerships at established mining companies such as Seriti are highly competitive because they provide structured artisan development, practical workplace exposure and a recognised pathway into one of South Africa’s most employable technical careers.
Do not wait until the closing date to submit your application. Gather your certified documents, verify that your qualifications meet the stated requirements and ensure your application is complete before uploading it. Small mistakes—such as missing proof of residence or expired certified copies—can result in an otherwise strong application being excluded.
If you are not selected this time, continue applying for artisan opportunities across the mining, energy and manufacturing sectors. Each application improves your understanding of employer requirements and increases your chances of securing a future engineering learnership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this learnership paid?
The advertisement does not specify the learner allowance. Successful applicants will receive full programme details during recruitment.
- Can I apply with Mathematical Literacy?
No. Applicants must have Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy.
- Can I apply without a driver’s licence?
No. A valid K53 driver’s licence is listed as a requirement.
- Can I apply if I do not live near New Vaal Colliery?
Yes, although preference will be given to applicants from the New Vaal Colliery host communities who provide proof of residence.
- Will everyone be contacted?
No. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
- What trades are available?
Applicants may choose either:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Auto Electrician
You can also:
- View latest Internships
- View latest Learnerships
- View Latest Bursaries
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- View latest Municipality vacancies
- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
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Disclaimer
This article is intended to help readers understand the advertised opportunity. Application requirements, selection criteria, allowances and programme details are determined solely by Seriti. Applicants should refer to the official vacancy advertisement and application portal for the most up-to-date information before applying.
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