Young South Africans looking to build a career in mining and engineering can now apply for the 2026 Valterra Platinum Engineering Apprenticeships at Amandelbult Mine in Thabazimbi, Limpopo.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The programme is offered by Valterra Platinum, formerly known as Anglo American Platinum. The company is inviting applications from unemployed youth under the 18.2 category for its 2026 Engineering Learnership Programme.
The closing date for applications is 25 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
If you are serious about becoming a qualified artisan in the mining industry, this opportunity could be your stepping stone.
About Valterra Platinum
Valterra Platinum is one of the world’s leading primary producers of platinum group metals (PGMs). The company’s operations include:
- Mining
- Smelting
- Refining
- Global marketing of PGMs
Following its demerger from Anglo American plc, Valterra Platinum now operates as an independent, publicly listed company on the Johannesburg and London stock exchanges.
The company focuses on:
- Operational excellence
- Sustainable mining practices
- Responsible and safe operations
- Long-term value creation
This learnership programme forms part of its commitment to skills development and youth empowerment in South Africa.
Learnership Location
The 2026 Valterra Platinum Engineering Apprenticeships will take place at:
Amandelbult Mine
Thabazimbi, South Africa
Amandelbult Mine is one of the major platinum operations in Limpopo and provides practical, real-world mining exposure to learners.
Type of Programme
- Engineering Learnership (18.2 – Unemployed Category)
- Structured artisan development programme
- Combination of theoretical training and practical workplace experience
This programme is designed to help candidates qualify as artisans in their chosen trade.
Available Engineering Apprenticeships for 2026
Valterra Platinum is offering multiple artisan training opportunities across key engineering disciplines:
- Electrician in Training (x2)
- Boilermaker Apprentice (x2)
- Mechanical Fitter Apprentice (x2)
- Diesel Mechanic Apprentice (x3)
- Control and Instrumentation Apprentice (x2)
- Auto Electrical Apprentice (x2)
- Millwright Apprentice (x2)
These trades are in high demand across South Africa’s mining, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following minimum requirements:
Option 1: Grade 12 Qualification
You must have:
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Physical Science
- English
Minimum pass mark: 40% in all subjects.
Option 2: N2 or Higher Qualification
You must have:
- At least four passed subjects
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Relevant trade-related subjects
Option 3: NCV Level 4
- NCV Level 4 in a relevant trade
- Minimum 40% pass in all subjects
Meeting the minimum academic requirement does not guarantee selection. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Trade-Specific Subject Requirements
Each trade requires relevant technical subjects. Below is a breakdown:
Boilermaker
- Platers Theory
- Welding Theory
- Steel Structures & Drawing
Electrician
- Electrical Trade Theory
- Industrial Electronics
- Engineering Drawings
Diesel Mechanic
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
- Engineering Drawings
Mechanical Fitter
- Fitting Trade Theory
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawings
Instrumentation Technician
- Instrument Trade Theory
- Industrial Electronics
Auto Electrician
- Electrical Motor Trade Theory
- Industrial Electronics
Millwright
- Fitting and Electrical Theory
- Industrial Electronics
- Engineering Drawings
Candidates should ensure their qualifications align with the chosen trade.
Required Documents
To be considered for the 2026 Valterra Platinum Engineering Apprenticeships, applicants must submit:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of residence (for host community applicants – stamped by tribal office or municipality)
All documents should preferably be combined into a single PDF file.
Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Unemployed South African youth
- Candidates passionate about engineering
- Individuals seeking artisan certification
- Residents of host communities near Amandelbult Mine
Preference will be given to applicants from host communities.
What Does the Programme Offer?
Successful learners can expect:
Structured Training
A regulated programme aligned with artisan development standards.
Workplace Exposure
Hands-on experience in a real mining operation.
Safe Working Environment
A culture of safety, compliance, and ethical conduct.
Market-Related Stipend
Learners receive financial support aligned with industry standards.
Career Growth
Opportunities for long-term employment and advancement after qualification.
Valterra Platinum promotes diversity and inclusion and does not tolerate harassment, bullying, or discrimination.
Why Engineering Apprenticeships Matter in South Africa
Engineering artisans remain in high demand across:
- Mining
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Transport
According to industry trends, qualified artisans such as electricians, millwrights, and diesel mechanics are critical to infrastructure and industrial development.
For young people facing unemployment, programmes like the 2026 Valterra Platinum Engineering Apprenticeships provide:
- Accredited skills
- Work experience
- Increased employability
- Potential permanent employment
This makes artisan training one of the most practical career pathways available.
How to Apply
Applicants must apply online through the official Valterra Platinum careers portal.
Before submitting:
- Ensure all required documents are certified
- Combine documents into one PDF
- Double-check that subject requirements match your trade
Closing Date:
25 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Important Application Tips
To improve your chances:
- Ensure your CV clearly states your trade choice.
- Highlight relevant technical subjects.
- Confirm your contact details are correct.
- Submit your application well before the deadline.
Remember: meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Key Dates to Remember
- Programme: 2026 Engineering Apprenticeships
- Location: Amandelbult Mine, Thabazimbi
- Category: 18.2 (Unemployed)
- Closing Date: 25 February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the 18.2 category?
The 18.2 category refers to unemployed learners entering into a formal learnership agreement with an employer.
2. Can I apply if I have Mathematical Literacy?
No. Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) is required under the Grade 12 option.
3. Is this programme only for Limpopo residents?
Preference is given to host community applicants, but all qualifying unemployed South African youth may apply.
4. Will I receive a stipend?
Yes. Learners typically receive a market-related stipend during training.
5. Does this guarantee permanent employment?
No. However, successful completion significantly improves employment prospects.
6. What happens if I submit incomplete documents?
Incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Valterra Platinum Engineering Apprenticeships at Amandelbult Mine represent a valuable opportunity for unemployed South African youth to enter the mining industry through structured artisan training.
With strong industry backing, practical exposure, and formal qualification pathways, this programme offers more than just training — it offers a career foundation.
If you meet the requirements and are committed to building a future in engineering, ensure your application is submitted before 25 February 2026.
Opportunities like this can shape your long-term career in one of South Africa’s most important industries.
Apply early. Prepare properly. Secure your future.
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.