Bridgestone is offering a full-time Millwright Apprenticeship in Brits, South Africa. Learn mechanical maintenance, production systems, and manufacturing skills.
Location: Brits, ZA
ABOUT US
Bridgestone Corporation stands as a global leader in the tyre and rubber industry, with a rich history dating back to 1931. Today, it develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone, and associate brand products and solutions to address the needs of a broad range of customers and industries. From passenger car tyres and truck tyres to mining and aviation solutions, Bridgestone’s innovative portfolio drives safer, more sustainable mobility worldwide. In South Africa, our Brits facility plays a pivotal role in tyre production, leveraging cutting-edge technology to support local and international markets. We prioritize sustainability, investing in eco-friendly manufacturing processes and recycling initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint while delivering superior quality products.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Job Purpose
In this full-time, on-site internship, you’ll gain practical experience in maintaining and repairing complex machinery used in tyre production lines. Millwrights are the backbone of our operations, ensuring that mixing mills, extruders, calendering machines, and conveyor systems run smoothly to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. Your daily tasks will include troubleshooting mechanical issues, aligning belts and pulleys, installing new equipment, and performing preventive maintenance to uphold the highest safety and quality standards. You’ll collaborate with experienced engineers and technicians, learning to interpret technical drawings, use diagnostic tools, and apply hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical principles in real-world scenarios.
Key responsibilities extend to waste reduction strategies, such as analyzing scrap data to refine compound formulations and process parameters, ultimately contributing to cost savings and sustainable practices. This role demands a keen eye for detail, problem-solving prowess, and a commitment to Bridgestone’s mission of serving society with superior quality. Over the course of the program, you’ll rotate through various departments, building a comprehensive skill set that prepares you for a thriving career in industrial maintenance and manufacturing.
Qualifications & Experience Required
Education, Master, other certification:
- Grade 12/N3 Certificate (essential foundation for technical aptitude).
- N2-N6 in Engineering Studies (Must-have; Mechanical, Electrical, or Millwright-specific modules preferred to demonstrate core knowledge in engineering principles).
Experience (years):
- Workshop Training will be advantageous, particularly hands-on exposure to lathes, milling machines, welding, or basic hydraulics. No prior professional experience is required, as this apprenticeship is designed for motivated entry-level candidates eager to learn.
Ideal candidates exhibit strong mechanical aptitude, physical fitness for workshop environments, and a passion for tyre manufacturing processes. Familiarity with safety protocols like Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and basic computer skills for CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) will set you apart. Bridgestone values diversity in backgrounds, so we’re open to applicants from various educational paths who show enthusiasm for engineering and manufacturing excellence.
WHAT WE OFFER
At Bridgestone, what really matters is to foster co-creation opportunities and empower you to be creative and curious to make mobility safer, more efficient, and more sustainable for future generations.
- A supportive and engaging onboarding experience to ensure a smooth transition into our team, including safety inductions, plant tours, and mentor pairing from day one.
- The opportunity to develop and grow through structured training and regular mentorship, with access to NATED courses, trade tests, and potential qualification as a qualified Millwright Artisan upon completion.
- Corporate Social Responsibility activities, such as community tyre safety workshops and environmental clean-ups in Brits and surrounding areas.
- A truly global, dynamic, and challenging work environment, with exposure to international best practices and collaboration across Bridgestone’s worldwide network.
- Agility and work/life effectiveness, including flexible shift options, employee wellness programs, and long-term well-being support like medical aid contributions and retirement savings.
- A diverse and inclusive team where your unique perspectives drive innovation.
We are committed to creating an even more inclusive culture that advances equity, embraces individuality, and helps our increasingly diverse teammates, customers, and communities thrive by providing equal opportunities in employment.
How to Apply
Submit your CV, certified Grade 12/N3 certificate, and N2-N6 proof via our careers portal using JobReq ID 54759. Shortlisted candidates will undergo aptitude tests, interviews, and medical assessments. Join Bridgestone today and build a future in tyre manufacturing excellence!
