Are you passionate about mechanical and electrical systems? Looking to kickstart your career in engineering with hands-on experience and real growth opportunities? Millwright Apprenticeship at RCL Foods in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, South Africa, could be the perfect opportunity for you. If you’re ready to gain industry-leading training while contributing to a well-established food manufacturing company, this role is your gateway to a nationally recognized trade qualification and a rewarding future.
Why This Millwright Apprenticeship Is Worth Your Application
RCL Foods is not just another name in the food manufacturing industry—it’s a company built on purpose. With a vision centered around nourishing lives and building stronger communities, RCL Foods stands as a key player in South Africa’s food sector. This Millwright Apprenticeship is more than just a job; it’s a structured training program that gives you the opportunity to build solid engineering skills, receive mentorship, and get paid while learning.
Whether you’re fresh out of school with a passion for mechanical or electrical trades or you’ve started technical training and want to transition into real-world experience, this apprenticeship offers both. You’ll work with experienced engineers, rotate across various departments, and gain hands-on skills in machinery maintenance, preventative care, and troubleshooting—all essential for a successful career in engineering and manufacturing.
Who Should Apply for This Millwright Apprenticeship?
This opportunity is ideal for aspiring artisans who have completed Grade 12 and hold at least an N3 technical qualification (N4 to N6 is preferred). If you’re detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and eager to learn, you’re already halfway there.
You should consider applying if:
- You have completed or are pursuing a formal institutional training program.
- You’re passionate about mechanical and electrical systems.
- You enjoy problem-solving and want to understand how machines work.
- You’re looking for a structured path toward becoming a qualified millwright.
- You can commit to a shift-based schedule (06:00 AM to 15:30 PM).
- You’re ready to grow in a supportive environment that values skill development.
Location and Work Schedule
This position is based in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, at one of RCL Foods’ operating units specializing in frozen products (the Pies unit). Candidates must be willing to work on-site and engage in hands-on training across different sections of the plant.
What You’ll Learn and Do as a Millwright Apprentice
Over approximately 29 weeks, you’ll be exposed to various sections of the factory during active operations and off-crop periods.
Here’s what you can expect to be doing:
- Assist in maintaining and repairing conveyor belts, modular belts, bearings, and other mechanical components.
- Learn the operation of production lines and gain a foundational understanding of fitting and mechanical systems.
- Interpret and understand complex engineering drawings.
- Perform preventative maintenance and daily inspections to keep machinery running at optimal efficiency.
- Use mechanical and electrical tools to restore or maintain equipment.
- Conduct root cause analysis on machine failures and help implement solutions to prevent them from recurring.
- Complete job cards accurately and document maintenance actions.
- Ensure safety protocols are followed rigorously during all operations.
This program is performance-based: at the end of each training year, you’ll complete a mini trade (phase) test to determine your progression. Successfully completing the program culminates in a nationally recognized trade qualification.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
To qualify for this apprenticeship, you’ll need to meet the following minimum requirements:
Educational Requirements:
- Grade 12 certificate.
- A minimum of an N3 qualification is essential. (N4 to N6 is highly preferred.)
- A completed formal institutionalized training program is required.
Preferred Subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Industrial Electronics
- Electrical Trade Theory / Electrical Technology / Electrotechnology
- Fitting and Machining / Mechanical Technology / Mechanotechnology
Key Skills and Competencies:
- Sound understanding of Health, Safety, and Environmental standards in the workplace.
- Ability to use a variety of mechanical and electrical tools.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
- Good communication and documentation skills.
What Makes RCL Foods a Great Place to Start Your Career?
You won’t just be working a job—you’ll be joining a purpose-driven organization that believes in nurturing talent and providing growth paths.
Some reasons to consider building your future at RCL Foods:
- Structured apprenticeship programs with national certification.
- Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and mentors.
- Exposure to a high-standard, safety-focused manufacturing environment.
- A chance to gain real-world experience that employers highly value.
- Access to career development resources and potential for full-time roles after qualification.
Application Deadline and How to Apply
Make sure your application includes:
- Your updated CV.
- Proof of successful completion of a formal institutional training program.
Apply here for millwright apprentice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a millwright do?
Millwrights are highly skilled technicians who install, maintain, and repair industrial machinery. They combine mechanical and electrical skills to ensure machinery runs efficiently and safely.
Is prior work experience required?
While prior hands-on experience is not required, candidates should have completed formal institutional training and be eager to learn on the job.
Can this apprenticeship lead to full-time employment?
Yes. Many apprentices who complete the program successfully are considered for permanent technical positions within RCL Foods.
Do I need to live in Krugersdorp to apply?
While it’s not mandatory to currently live in Krugersdorp, you should be able to reliably commute or relocate as needed since the position is on-site.
Start Your Skilled Career the Right Way
If you’re serious about starting a long-term career in engineering and manufacturing, the Millwright Apprenticeship at RCL Foods offers you a well-rounded, supportive, and impactful first step. With strong technical training, mentorship, and real responsibilities, this apprenticeship isn’t just another entry-level job—it’s a launchpad into South Africa’s thriving industrial sector.
Apply now and take your first step toward becoming a certified, in-demand millwright.
