If you’re a young South African who loves working with your hands, enjoys solving mechanical problems, and dreams of a career in the heavy equipment industry, here’s an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. The Earthmoving Mechanic Apprentice Programme is now open for applications in multiple locations across the country, offering a clear pathway to becoming a qualified artisan.
This is your chance to learn from industry experts, gain hands-on technical experience, and build a career in one of the most in-demand trades in the country.
With positions available in Middelburg, Rustenburg, Bloemfontein, Kathu, Boksburg, Richards Bay, and Durban, this apprenticeship is ideal for school leavers, technical college graduates, or anyone with a strong mechanical interest and a willingness to work hard.
Why This Opportunity Is Worth Applying For
Skilled earthmoving mechanics are in high demand, and this apprenticeship programme is designed to develop the next generation of qualified artisans to meet that demand.
As an apprentice, you will:
- Receive structured, paid on-the-job training in a professional workshop and field environment.
- Learn how to maintain, repair, and service some of the most powerful and advanced machinery in the industry.
- Be mentored by experienced artisans who will guide you through both the practical and theoretical aspects of your trade.
- Gain a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to stable and high-paying employment opportunities.
If you’ve ever looked at a massive excavator, bulldozer, or loader and wondered how it works — this is your chance to find out, hands-on.
Locations and Closing Date
This is a nationwide intake with several posts available.
Available positions are based in:
- Middelburg
- Rustenburg
- Bloemfontein
- Kathu
- Boksburg
- Richards Bay
- Durban
Who Can Apply – Minimum Requirements
- Education
- A Grade 12 (Matric) certificate with Mathematics and Physical Science, both with a minimum of 50% pass.
- An N2 Certificate from a TVET or FET College in relevant subjects:
- Mathematics
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Engineering Drawings
- Engineering Science
- Experience
- Previous experience in a vehicle maintenance or workshop environment will be a strong advantage, but is not compulsory.
- Additional Requirements
- A genuine interest in mechanical work and a willingness to learn.
- Willingness to travel to different sites within South Africa when required.
As an Earthmoving Mechanic Apprentice, your work will be split between learning in the workshop and assisting in the field. You will work alongside qualified artisans, gradually building your skills in real-world conditions.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with Repairs and Services – Supporting artisans during scheduled maintenance and repairs on earthmoving machinery.
- Field Breakdown Support – Helping respond to mechanical failures on-site to get machines up and running as quickly as possible.
- Workshop Operations – Participating in day-to-day workshop activities, including cleaning, organising tools, and preparing machinery for repair.
- Safety Compliance – Following workplace safety rules and contributing to a strong safety culture within the team.
- Team Collaboration – Carrying out reasonable instructions from team leaders and working cooperatively with colleagues.
This role requires someone who is comfortable working in hands-on, physically demanding environments and who is willing to spend time both indoors in workshops and outdoors at various sites.
Career Growth and Future Opportunities
Completing this apprenticeship successfully will position you for a secure and rewarding career in the heavy equipment and mining sectors. Once qualified, earthmoving mechanics often enjoy:
- Competitive salaries and overtime pay.
- Opportunities for travel and site work.
- Career advancement into supervisory or technical specialist roles.
- The ability to work for top companies in mining, construction, and industrial maintenance.
Many apprentices go on to become workshop managers, technical trainers, or even start their own mechanical service businesses.
Skills You Will Gain
- Practical skills in diagnosing and fixing mechanical problems.
- Strong knowledge of safety and compliance standards in the heavy equipment industry.
- Problem-solving and teamwork abilities that employers value highly.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and are ready to start your journey towards becoming a qualified earthmoving mechanic, submit your application before the closing date of 15 August 2025.
Make sure your application includes:
- Certified copies of your Matric certificate and N2 certificate.
- Any additional qualifications or references that can strengthen your application.
The Earthmoving Mechanic Apprentice Programme is more than just a job — it’s an investment in your future. It offers the perfect mix of training, mentorship, and real-world experience to help you build a stable and lucrative career in a highly specialised trade.
Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to switch to a hands-on, mechanical career, this opportunity is a stepping stone to long-term success. With multiple locations available across South Africa, it’s accessible to motivated individuals nationwide.
Apply here for mechanical apprentice
