Glencore Coal SA Graduate Development Internship Program 2026

Glencore Coal SA Graduate Development Program offers an exceptional 36-month fixed-term contract designed specifically to prepare talented graduates for substantive roles within the mining industry. This opportunity is ideal for motivated individuals residing in the Nkangala District of Mpumalanga who want hands-on exposure, professional coaching, and a comprehensive career path at one of the world’s largest diversified natural resource companies.
What Is the Glencore Coal SA Graduate Development Program?
Glencore’s Graduate Development Program is a structured initiative focused on developing newly qualified mining engineers by immersing them in real-world projects and a rotating schedule across various parts of the business. This program is designed to build both technical knowledge and behavioral skills, ensuring graduates grow as well-rounded professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to Glencore Coal SA’s operations.
Who Should Apply?
- Graduates holding a relevant mining engineering degree.
- Candidates with an outstanding academic record who demonstrate a strong work ethic.
- Individuals who show a willingness to learn, work within teams, and follow organizational rules.
- Preference for applicants residing within local communities near Glencore’s coal operations in the Nkangala District of Mpumalanga (proof of residence required).
Why This Program Is Worth Applying For
Joining Glencore Coal SA as a graduate trainee offers unique advantages for career starters:
- Global Industry Leader: Work for a company with over 150,000 employees worldwide and a footprint in more than 50 countries.
- Comprehensive Skill Development: Gain broad technical and behavioral training through project assignments, professional coaching, and workshops.
- Rotational Exposure: Experience different departments and understand the end-to-end mining value chain.
- Career Launchpad: Position yourself for future career growth within Glencore or the broader mining and resources sectors.
- Local Community Preference: Support local talent development and benefit from potentially reduced commute times.
What the Program Entails: A Comprehensive Breakdown
Program Duration and Contract
- Fixed-term contract lasting 36 months (3 years).
- Full immersion into mining engineering operations and business functions.
Practical and Technical Training
- Hands-on experience through structured job rotations across various departments.
- Opportunities to work with seasoned professionals who provide mentorship and on-the-job coaching.
- Participation in workshops and courses designed to enhance both technical expertise and soft skills.
Behavioral and Professional Development
- Emphasis on teamwork, communication, and alignment with Glencore’s core values: safety, integrity, responsibility, openness, simplicity, and entrepreneurialism.
- Development of problem-solving skills, rule adherence, and a professional work ethic.
- Encouragement to engage actively, seek learning opportunities, and contribute to business growth.
About Glencore Coal South Africa
Glencore is a leading global diversified natural resource company that produces and markets a wide range of commodities including coal, metals, minerals, oil, and agricultural products. Its coal division in South Africa plays a critical role in the global energy supply chain, operating 150 mining and metallurgical sites worldwide and over 50 offices. With a workforce of over 150,000 employees and contractors, Glencore places a strong emphasis on sustainable business practices, safety, and community development.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
- Qualifications: Relevant tertiary degree in mining engineering.
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrated outstanding performance at the university level.
- Local Residency: Preference for candidates residing within Mpumalanga’s Nkangala District; proof of residence must be provided.
- Personal Qualities: Strong learning orientation, team player attitude, and adherence to organizational policies.
How to Apply and Important Dates
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2025.
- Apply online through official Glencore careers portals.
- Ensure submission of required documentation including proof of residence and academic transcripts.
Apply here for glencore internship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of contract is offered?
A fixed-term 36-month contract designed for structured development and potential for future career placement.
Will I rotate through different departments?
Yes, rotation across parts of the business is central to the program for broad exposure.
Is this program only for mining engineering graduates?
This specific program focuses on mining engineering graduates, though Glencore offers other programs for different disciplines.
What are the company’s core values emphasized in the program?
Safety, integrity, responsibility, openness, simplicity, and entrepreneurialism.
Can local applicants expect preference during selection?
Glencore Coal SA Graduate Development Program is an excellent opportunity for fresh mining engineering graduates to gain comprehensive training, practical experience, and a solid foundation for a prosperous career in one of the most important sectors globally. Glencore’s commitment to growth, safety, and local empowerment makes this program a highly valuable launchpad to success. If you live in Mpumalanga’s Nkangala District and meet the criteria, seize this chance to grow professionally with a global leader by applying before November 1, 2025.

