If you are a young person in the Western Cape who wants to enter the engineering trades sector, this apprenticeship opportunity from John Thompson (a division of ACTOM) could become the turning point of your career journey.
Apprenticeships in boilermaking and welding are among the most practical and reliable pathways into artisan careers in South Africa. They combine structured training, workplace exposure, and long-term employment prospects in industries such as manufacturing, construction, mining, infrastructure maintenance, and energy production.
This intake specifically targets candidates with technical backgrounds and strong interest in engineering, and importantly, no prior experience is required.
Quick Overview
Opportunity: Apprenticeships – Boilermaking & Welding
Company: John Thompson (ACTOM Division)
Reference Number: HR17/2026
Location: Bellville, Western Cape
Province Eligibility: Western Cape residents only
Vacancies: Maximum 20 positions
Age Requirement: 18 – 35 years
Experience Required: None
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 Technical / Academic with Maths and Science OR N2 Trade Theory OR NCV Level 4 Fabrication
Application Method: Email or Post submission
Closing Date: 15 May 2026
Interview Venue: John Thompson Bellville Office
Apprenticeship Fields Offered
This intake focuses on two major fabrication trades:
Boilermaking
Boilermakers work with heavy steel structures and pressure systems used in:
- Power stations
- Manufacturing plants
- Industrial processing facilities
- Petrochemical operations
- Mining infrastructure
Training includes:
- Reading engineering drawings
- Metal fabrication
- Structural assembly
- Industrial equipment installation
- Pressure vessel construction
Welding
Welders join metal components using specialised tools and techniques.
Training includes:
- Arc welding
- Structural welding
- Fabrication welding
- Pipe welding
- Industrial safety procedures
Welding is one of the most globally portable artisan skills.
Minimum Requirements to Apply
Applicants must meet at least one of the following qualification pathways:
Option 1: Technical Grade 12
Grade 12 Technical with:
- Metal Work
- Welders Theory
- Technical Mathematics (not Maths Literacy)
- Technical Science
Option 2: Academic Grade 12
Grade 12 Academic with:
- Mathematics (not Maths Literacy)
- Physical Science
Option 3: N2 Engineering Studies
N2 Trade Theory Subjects including:
- Platers Theory OR
- Welders Theory
- Engineering Science
- Mathematics
- Platers Drawings
Option 4: NCV Qualification
National Certificate Vocational Level 4:
- Fabrication specialisation
- Maths Literacy not accepted
Additional Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be medically fit for engineering trade work
- Be between ages 18 – 35
- Show strong interest in engineering
- Live in the Western Cape
- Attach academic results and certificates
- Submit a maximum 4-page CV
Important note:
The company will not consider applicants who are already qualified artisans in:
- Electrical trades
- Diesel trades
- Fitting and Turning
- Motor trades
- ND engineering qualifications
This programme targets entry-level candidates only.
No Experience Required
One of the strongest advantages of this opportunity is that no previous work experience is required.
Instead, selected candidates will:
- Write a psychometric test
- Enter a three-month evaluation period
- Work initially as unskilled trainees
- Be assessed for apprenticeship readiness
Successful candidates showing strong performance may then be formally placed into the apprenticeship programme.
This staged approach helps identify motivated candidates who can succeed long term.
Training Location
Successful applicants will be placed at: John Thompson Bellville Office, Western Cape
Interviews will also be conducted at this location.
Applicants should ensure they can reliably travel to Bellville before applying.
Who Should Apply Immediately
You should strongly consider applying if you:
- Completed Technical Grade 12
- Studied N2 Engineering Studies
- Completed NCV Fabrication Level 4
- Are unemployed
- Live in the Western Cape
- Want a practical engineering career
- Are willing to undergo training and evaluation
Documents Required When Applying
Your application must include:
- Cover letter stating position applied for
- Updated CV (maximum 4 pages)
- Certified copies of certificates
- Academic transcripts or results
Important warning:
Applications without certificates will be disqualified.
How to Apply
Applications may be submitted via email or post.
Email Applications
Send your documents to: HumanResource@johnthompson.co.za
Include: Reference Number: HR17/2026 in your subject line.
Postal Applications
Address applications to:
Senior HR Officer
PO Box 129
Bellville
7535
Edupstairs Advice for Applicants
Before submitting your application:
- Ensure your CV is updated
- Attach certified certificates
- Highlight technical school subjects clearly
- Mention engineering interest in your cover letter
- Prepare for psychometric testing
- Research boilermaking and welding careers
- If you studied at a TVET College, include practical workshop exposure details.
Applicants who clearly demonstrate commitment to engineering trades usually perform better during evaluation periods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is previous work experience required?
No. Training will be provided to successful candidates.
- Can candidates outside the Western Cape apply?
No. Only Western Cape residents may apply.
- Is Maths Literacy accepted?
No. Mathematics is required.
- Are qualified artisans allowed to apply?
No. This programme targets entry-level candidates.
- Will applicants be employed immediately?
Successful candidates first complete a three-month evaluation period before apprenticeship placement.
- Where will interviews take place?
Bellville, Western Cape.
- What happens after the evaluation period?
Management may offer apprenticeship placement to candidates who demonstrate strong potential.
CLOSING DATE: 15 MAY 2026
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Disclaimer
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