Transnet, one of South Africa’s largest state-owned companies, is inviting applications for its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme. The programme is aimed at unemployed young people who want to develop careers in technical trades including Electrician, Welder, Diesel Mechanic, Millwright, and Mechanical Fitter.
The Transnet Apprenticeship Programme combines practical workplace training with classroom-based instruction at accredited training facilities. Successful apprentices will work under qualified artisans while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills required for a career in the engineering and maintenance environment.
The opportunities are available at various Transnet locations, including Durban, Koedoespoort, Salt River, Bloemfontein, Germiston, North End, and Cambridge.
Why Join Transnet?
The Transnet Apprenticeship Programme provides young people with an opportunity to gain practical experience while working toward a recognized trade qualification.
Benefits of the programme include:
- Monthly stipend during the apprenticeship training.
- Practical workplace exposure under qualified artisans.
- Combination of theoretical and hands-on technical training.
- Development of trade-specific technical skills.
- Opportunity to work in a large and established South African company.
- A pathway toward becoming a qualified artisan.
Transnet Apprenticeships 2026 Overview
The apprenticeship programme offers opportunities in several technical disciplines. Apprentices will participate in structured workplace learning while completing the required classroom-based training and National Technical Certificate Courses.
Available apprenticeship positions include:
- Apprentice: Millwright – Durban, Koedoespoort and Salt River
- Apprentice: Mechanical Fitter – Salt River
- Apprentice: Diesel Mechanic – Durban
- Apprentice: Welder – Durban, Germiston, Koedoespoort and Salt River
- Apprentice: Electrician – Bloemfontein, Durban, Koedoespoort, Salt River, North End and Cambridge
The supplied application links also list opportunities for Fitter & Turner and Boilermaker.
Transnet Apprentice Responsibilities
Apprentices will receive practical exposure to activities relevant to their respective trades. Key position outputs include:
- Preparing and setting up work areas, tools, consumables and materials.
- Using hand tools, power tools and measuring equipment correctly.
- Installing, assembling, fitting and connecting trade-specific equipment and control systems.
- Testing, inspecting, commissioning and maintaining electrical, mechanical and welding systems.
- Repairing installations, assemblies and equipment according to required standards.
- Following health, safety and quality procedures during work activities.
- Working under the guidance and supervision of qualified artisans.
The exact duties may vary according to the trade selected.
Requirements for Transnet Apprenticeships 2026
Applicants must meet the stated educational requirements and should hold one of the following:
- N2 Certificate with relevant trade theory subjects.
- N3 Certificate in Industrial Electronics, Pure Mathematics, Engineering Science, Electro-technology, Engineering Drawing, or Fitting & Machining.
- NCV Level 4 with Pure Mathematics, English, Life Orientation and relevant vocational subjects.
- Technical Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics, Physical Science, Engineering Graphics and trade-specific technical subjects.
Applicants must also be between 18 and 35 years old.
Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Problem-solving abilities.
- Logical and analytical thinking.
- Good communication skills.
- Technical troubleshooting abilities.
- Ability to work effectively within a team.
- Willingness to follow instructions and learn from qualified artisans.
Employment Equity
The Transnet Apprenticeship Programme forms part of the company’s Employment Equity Plan. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups.
Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for Transnet Apprenticeships 2026
Interested candidates should apply online through the relevant Transnet recruitment links.
Applications should include:
- A detailed CV.
- Certified copies of identification.
- Certified copies of relevant qualifications.
- Proof of residence not older than three months.
No emailed, faxed or hand-delivered applications will be accepted according to the supplied advertisement.
Fitter & Turner
Apply for Fitter & Turner Apprenticeship
Boilermaker
Apply for Boilermaker Apprenticeship
Diesel Mechanic
Apply for Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship
Welder
Apply for Welder Apprenticeship
Electrician
Apply for Electrician Apprenticeship
Millwright
Apply for Millwright Apprenticeship
Mechanical Fitter
Apply for Mechanical Fitter Apprenticeship
Closing Date: 20 October 2026
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that Transnet receives their applications before the closing date.
Tips to Boost Your Transnet Apprenticeship Application
First, make sure your CV clearly highlights your relevant technical education and any practical experience. Moreover, ensure that your certificates and identification documents are properly prepared before starting the online application.
Additionally, select the apprenticeship discipline that best matches your qualifications. Check the requirements carefully and provide accurate information throughout the application process.
Finally, submit your application well before the closing date. This gives you enough time to resolve any technical problems that may occur during the online application process.
Final Thoughts
The Transnet Apprenticeships 2026 provide an opportunity for young South Africans to gain practical and theoretical training in highly technical trades. With opportunities in fields such as Electrician, Welder, Diesel Mechanic, Millwright, Mechanical Fitter, Fitter & Turner, and Boilermaker, the programme can provide valuable preparation for a career as a qualified artisan.
Eligible candidates should prepare their documents and apply through the relevant Transnet recruitment portal before the 20 October 2026 deadline.