Gibela (Alstom) is recruiting Electrical Engineering graduates for a 12-month Graduate Internship Programme: Test Technician based in Nigel, Gauteng. No work experience required. Ideal for unemployed South African youth seeking technical careers in rail manufacturing. Closing date: 11 February 2026.
This is a 12-month graduate programme based in Nigel (Ekurhuleni), Gauteng, with exposure to world-class train manufacturing and testing environments. The programme is ideal for unemployed graduates with no prior work experience who want hands-on technical training, professional mentorship, and real workplace experience in a critical sector of the South African economy. With six vacancies available and a closing date of 11 February 2026, this is a timely opportunity to apply and begin building a long-term technical career.
Job Overview
Gibela, Africa’s largest train manufacturing and passenger train maintenance company, is offering six Graduate Programme positions for Test Technicians within its Testing and Commissioning department. This programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industrial application.
Successful candidates will be placed on a 12-month structured graduate programme that combines practical workplace exposure with continuous technical and non-technical development. Graduates will work under experienced professionals and report to the Senior EPU Manager, gaining insight into testing processes, quality assurance, safety compliance, and rail manufacturing standards.
This opportunity forms part of Gibela’s broader mission to support socio-economic transformation through the revitalisation of South Africa’s commuter rail system.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
During the 12-month programme, graduates will rotate across various teams and gain exposure to critical operational areas. Key responsibilities include:
- Participating in testing execution and technical support activities
- Supporting quality, safety, and compliance processes in line with Gibela standards
- Assisting with documentation, reporting, and record-keeping
- Working collaboratively within multi-disciplinary technical teams
- Supporting equipment use, care, and basic maintenance
- Assisting with product preservation and configuration adherence
- Escalating major supplier-related issues when required
- Supporting corrective actions and monitoring compliance with internal standards
This role offers a challenging yet supportive environment that encourages learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Minimum Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this graduate programme, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (required)
- B-Tech, Advanced Diploma, or BEngTech in Electrical Engineering (advantageous)
- No previous work experience required
- Strong English communication skills, both written and verbal
- Computer literacy, particularly in MS Office applications
Skills and Personal Attributes
Gibela is looking for graduates who demonstrate strong personal values and workplace readiness. Ideal candidates should:
- Display honesty, integrity, respect, and teamwork
- Be reliable, efficient, flexible, and self-motivated
- Have a positive attitude and a strong willingness to learn
- Be passionate about technical work and the transport rail sector
- Show the ability to work well in structured, safety-critical environments
These behavioural attributes are essential for success in a manufacturing and engineering setting.
Salary and Benefits
No salary or stipend details were provided in the original job advertisement. Applicants are encouraged to view this programme as a career development opportunity, offering valuable industry exposure, skills training, and professional experience within a leading rail manufacturing company.
Employment Type and Contract Details
- Employment Type: Graduate Programme
- Contract Duration: 12 months (fixed-term)
- Number of Positions: 6
- Reporting Line: Senior EPU Manager
- Individuals with disabilities are invited to submit their applications.
Work Location and Schedule
Successful candidates will be based at Gibela’s manufacturing facilities, including:
- Nigel (Ekurhuleni), Gauteng
- Wolmerton (Pretoria North)
The primary reporting location for this role is Dunnottar, with standard working hours aligned to operational requirements.
Who Should Apply
This graduate programme is best suited for:
- Recently qualified Electrical Engineering graduates
- Young South Africans seeking entry-level technical jobs
- Unemployed graduates looking for hands-on workplace experience
- Individuals interested in manufacturing, rail engineering, and testing environments
- Graduates who want structured mentorship and professional growth
Why This Is a Good Career Opportunity
This graduate programme offers more than just work experience. It provides:
- Exposure to Africa’s largest rail manufacturing operation
- Practical skills aligned with industry standards
- A strong foundation for future careers in engineering, testing, and commissioning
- Experience in a strategic sector contributing to national development
- An opportunity to be part of South Africa’s rail modernisation journey
For graduates serious about building a technical career, this programme offers long-term value beyond the 12-month contract.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who qualifies for this Graduate Programme?
South African citizens aged 18–35 with a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering qualify to apply.
2. Is work experience required for this job?
No. This programme is specifically designed for graduates with no prior work experience.
3. Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a 12-month fixed-term graduate programme.
4. Where is the job located?
The programme is based in Nigel (Ekurhuleni) and Wolmerton (Pretoria North), Gauteng.
5. How many positions are available?
There are six (6) Graduate Programme: Test Technician vacancies available.
6. What qualification is required?
A National Diploma in Electrical Engineering is required. Higher qualifications are advantageous.
7. What is the closing date for applications?
The closing date is 11 February 2026.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a complete application including all required documents before the closing date of 11 February 2026.
