The mining sector remains one of South Africa’s largest employers and a critical engine for skills development, economic growth, and job creation. For 2026, several reputable mining companies and operations have officially opened learnership programmes — structured, accredited training initiatives that combine workplace exposure with theoretical learning. These programmes are designed to produce skilled entrants ready for long‑term careers in mining and engineering trades. Mining Learnerships Open for 2026
This guide covers the most important Mining Learnerships Open for 2026 in South Africa, who can apply, what each programme offers, how to prepare your application, and when to submit before deadlines.
Why Mining Learnerships Matter
Mining learnerships are essential because they provide:
- Real workplace experience in operational environments.
- Nationally recognised qualifications accredited by SETA or the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA).
- Pathways to employment in one of South Africa’s most technical and skills‑driven industries.
- Structured mentorship and classroom training that build both technical and soft skills.
Unlike casual internships, learnerships are formal training contracts that often result in career progression opportunities within mining operations, technical trades, and related industries.
Top Learnership Opportunities for 2026
Below are confirmed learnership programmes open or recently advertised for the 2026 intake. Deadlines may have passed for some openings, but they illustrate the kinds of opportunities available — and similar programmes will often re‑open annually.
1. United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) Learnership – Mining & Mineral Processing (18.2)
One of the most widely publicised learnerships open for 2026 is UMK Mining & Mineral Processing Learnerships 2026 — Applications Now Open! offered by United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK), a major manganese producer in the Northern Cape.
Programme Highlights
- Location: John Taolo Gaetsewe District / Joe Morolong Local Municipality, Northern Cape.
- Positions Available: Approximately 13 (10 in Mining, 3 in Mineral Processing).
- Closing Date: 16 December 2025 (for 2026 intake).
- Accreditation: MQA‑accredited training modules.
What You Learn
Mining Learnership:
- Blasting, drilling, excavation, hauling, and essential mining operations.
- Safety procedures and protocols.
- Operational discipline for real mine environments.
Mineral Processing Learnership:
- Ore reception and processing.
- Crushing, screening, and plant operations.
- MQA‑aligned competencies.
Eligibility Criteria
- For mining: Grade 12 with Mathematics & Physical Science.
- For processing: Grade 10 or ABET Level 4.
- Local residency in the designated district.
- Medically fit for mining environments.
This programme is ideal for community youth who want both practical skills and a recognised qualification to start a career in mining or processing.
2. Valterra Platinum Mine Engineering Learnerships
Valterra Platinum Mine also offered a range of engineering learnerships for the 2026 cycle, focused on technical trades crucial to modern mining operations.
Key Details
- Location: Thabazimbi, Limpopo (and in some previous postings, Mokopane).
- Deadline: 25 February 2026 (for Thabazimbi intake).
- Trades Include: Electrician, Boilermaker, Diesel Mechanic, Mechanical Fitter, Millwright, Auto Electrical, Measurement & Instrumentation.
Learning Structure
Valterra’s learnership combines:
- On‑the‑job training under experienced artisans.
- Classroom and practical components aligned to engineering trade standards.
- Exposure to heavy machinery, electrical systems, and mechanical systems.
Entry Requirements
- Grade 12 with Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) and Physical Science plus relevant subjects for specific trades.
- Technical diplomas (e.g., N3) may be advantageous.
These learnerships are excellent for learners aiming to become skilled artisans in engineering roles within mining and manufacturing environments.
3. Northam Eland Platinum Mine Learnerships
Northam Eland Platinum Mine runs a structured learnership and internship programme for 2026 that blends classroom learning with practical training.
- Location: North West Province.
- Programme Length: 36 months for full learnerships.
- Trades: Diesel Electrical Fitter, Auto Electrician, Heavy Equipment Mechanic, Plater/Welder.
This programme emphasises sustainable mining practices and positions learners for future artisan or engineering roles across platinum and PGM operations.
4. Assmang 2026 Engineering Learnership – Black Rock Mine
A recently announced opportunity is the Assmang Engineering Learnership at Black Rock Mine, with applications closing on 1 March 2026.
What You Gain
- MQA‑recognised competencies.
- Multiple engineering trades training (electrician, fitter, diesel mechanic, etc.).
- Preparation for formal trade testing and future employer pathways.
Requirements
- Grade 12 with Mathematics & Science.
- N2 or N3 engineering subjects (e.g., engineering science, industrial electronics).
- Dover “B” safety certification and medical fitness.
This opportunity is particularly strong for learners who want to fast‑track into hands‑on technical roles with real industry standards.
Common Eligibility Criteria Across Mining Learnerships
While each programme has specific requirements, common standards include:
- South African citizenship and a valid ID document.
- Minimum academic qualifications (often Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science; some accept Grade 10 or NCV Level 4 for processing roles).
- Medical fitness to perform physically demanding tasks and pass safety screenings.
- Proof of residence (especially for locally targeted programmes).
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step
Each learnership uses its own application process. Typical application steps include:
- Prepare Your Documents
- Certified copies of ID, qualifications, matric certificate or equivalent.
- Updated CV with contact details.
- Proof of residence (especially for community‑focused programmes like UMK).
- Follow Application Instructions
- Some applications are submitted via email with learnership reference in the subject line.
- Others require online portal submissions (e.g., Northam or Sibanye‑Stillwater).
- Submit Before Deadlines
- Ensure your application reaches the recruiter well before the advertised closing date.
- Late or incomplete submissions are usually not accepted.
- Track Your Application
- If contact details are provided, follow up respectfully after a reasonable period.
What You Learn & Career Outcomes
Mining learnerships equip you with:
- Technical competencies (machinery, plant operations, safety protocols).
- Workplace discipline and teamwork.
- Nationally recognised certificates that improve employability.
- Practical experience working alongside industry professionals.
After successful completion, learners can pursue careers such as:
- Electrician or Diesel Mechanic
- Mechanical Fitter or Millwright
- Excavation and Drilling Assistant
- Control Room Technician or Plant Operator
- Safety and Mine Supervisory Roles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need previous mining experience to apply?
Most learnerships do not require prior mining experience — they are designed to train beginners from entry‑level.
Q2: Are these learnerships paid?
Many mining learnerships include a stipend or training allowance, though amounts are usually specified after shortlisting.
Q3: Can I apply if I live outside the host community?
Some programmes, like the UMK learnerships, prioritise local residents and may require proof of residence.
Q4: Will I get a job after completing the learnership?
Completion does not guarantee permanent employment, but it significantly improves your chances with mining employers locally and nationally.
Q5: What is the typical duration of mining learnerships?
Learnership durations vary — some are short (12–18 months for processing), others are longer (36 months for technical trades).
Conclusion
Mining learnerships open for 2026 in South Africa represent transformative opportunities for young people seeking career pathways, practical skills, and accredited qualifications in a high‑demand industry. With programmes like UMK’s 18.2 Mining and Mineral Processing Learnerships, Valterra Platinum’s engineering trades, Assmang’s Black Rock intake, and Northam Eland’s structured learnerships, there are multiple entry points depending on your interests and qualifications.
Successful applicants will gain real workplace experience, industry‑recognised qualifications, and a stepping stone into long‑term careers within mining and related sectors. Start preparing your documents today, monitor deadlines closely, and apply with confidence.