Engineering skills remain among the most valuable technical capabilities in South Africa’s mining sector. Skilled artisans are responsible for maintaining equipment, repairing systems, and ensuring mining operations continue safely and efficiently.
To help develop the next generation of technical professionals, De Beers Group has opened applications for its Engineering Learnership Programme 2026.
The programme will take place at Venetia Mine, one of the company’s major mining operations. It provides structured artisan training combined with real workplace experience.
For young people interested in engineering, machinery, electrical systems, or technical problem-solving, this programme offers a practical route into a long-term career in the mining industry.
Programme Overview
The Engineering Learnership Programme is designed to provide intensive technical training while allowing participants to gain real industry experience.
Programme details include:
Programme: De Beers Engineering Learnership Programme 2026
Company: De Beers Group
Training Site: Venetia Mine
Location: Musina
Province: Limpopo
Training Provider: Accredited training centre in Randfontein
Reference ID: REF77097M
Training Duration: Approximately four years
Training Type: QCTO Occupational Qualification Learnership
The programme combines classroom learning with practical workplace training, allowing learners to develop the skills needed to become qualified artisans.
Available Learnership Opportunities
The programme includes several engineering trades where learners will receive specialized training.
Available opportunities include:
- 9 Engineering Learnerships for unemployed youth under Section 18.2
- 1 Engineering Learnership for internal Venetia Mine employees under Section 18.1
Priority for the external learnerships is given to applicants from local municipalities near the mining operation.
Engineering Trades Available
Participants can apply for training in one of several artisan trades. Each trade focuses on a specific area of engineering within mining operations.
Boilermaker
Boilermakers work with heavy steel structures used in mining equipment and plant infrastructure.
Key responsibilities include:
- Fabricating steel structures
- Welding and shaping metal components
- Repairing industrial equipment
- Maintaining plant infrastructure
Applicants must have N2 subjects including Engineering Science, Platers Trade Theory, and Structural Steel Drawings.
Instrument Mechanician
Instrument mechanicians focus on instrumentation systems that monitor and control industrial processes.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Installing monitoring instruments
- Calibrating control systems
- Maintaining automation equipment
- Diagnosing instrumentation faults
Required subjects include Engineering Science, Industrial Electronics, and Instrument Trade Theory.
Electrician
Electricians maintain electrical systems that power mining equipment and operations.
Responsibilities include:
- Electrical installation and wiring
- Maintenance of power distribution systems
- Diagnosing electrical faults
- Ensuring electrical safety compliance
Applicants must have Engineering Science, Industrial Electronics, and Electrical Trade Theory.
Fitter and Turner
Fitters and turners specialize in mechanical systems used in industrial environments.
Their tasks include:
- Machining mechanical components
- Assembling mechanical systems
- Maintaining mining equipment
- Repairing machinery
Relevant subjects include Engineering Science, Engineering Drawings, and Fitting and Machining Trade Theory.
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel mechanics maintain heavy vehicles and equipment used in mining operations.
Responsibilities include:
- Servicing diesel engines
- Repairing mining vehicles
- Diagnosing mechanical faults
- Conducting preventative maintenance
Applicants must have Engineering Science, Engineering Drawing, and Diesel or Motor Trade Theory.
Transportation Electrician (Auto Electrician)
Auto electricians specialize in electrical systems within vehicles and heavy machinery.
Typical duties include:
- Installing electrical components in vehicles
- Diagnosing wiring faults
- Repairing electrical systems
- Maintaining battery and charging systems
Required subjects include Engineering Science, Industrial Electronics, and Motor Electrical Trade Theory.
Rigger
Riggers are responsible for lifting and positioning heavy machinery safely during mining operations.
Responsibilities include:
- Operating lifting equipment
- Securing loads during transport
- Installing heavy machinery
- Performing safety inspections
Applicants must have Engineering Science, Engineering Drawing, and Rigging Theory.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the academic requirements to be considered for the programme.
Candidates must have one of the following qualifications.
Option 1: Grade 12
Applicants must have completed Grade 12 with:
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Physical Science
- English
A minimum pass mark of 40 percent is required in each subject.
Option 2: N2 Engineering Qualification
Applicants may also qualify if they hold an N2 qualification related to the engineering trade they are applying for.
Option 3: NCV Level 3
Candidates with an NCV Level 3 qualification including Mathematics and relevant engineering subjects may also apply.
QUICK LINKS:
Additional Requirements
Applicants must also meet several additional conditions before they can be accepted into the programme.
These include:
- Ability to travel to the training centre in Randfontein
- Willingness to work at Venetia Mine
- Ability to obtain a Red Ticket medical fitness certificate
- Passing a criminal background check through the South African Police Service
- Passing psychometric and technical assessments
- Providing proof of residential address
For external applicants, priority is given to residents of Musina Municipality and Blouberg Municipality.
Applicants from these areas must provide an official confirmation letter from the municipality or tribal council verifying their residence.
Skills and Competencies Required
Successful candidates must demonstrate strong technical and professional potential.
Important qualities include:
- Technical problem-solving ability
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Strong work ethic
- Commitment to safety standards
- Analytical thinking skills
Working in a mining environment requires discipline, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit a complete application with all required documentation.
The required documents include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Grade 12 certificate
- Certified N2 or NCV qualification (if applicable)
- Proof of residential address
- Municipal or tribal council confirmation letter
- Certified academic transcripts
Applications that do not include the required documentation may not be considered.
Application Process
APPLY FOR THE DE BEERS GROUP ENGINEERING LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Applicants should ensure that all documents are correctly certified and uploaded during the online application process.
Applications will close on 20 March 2026.
Important Notes
Before applying, candidates should consider the following points:
- The programme runs for approximately four years
- Training includes both theoretical and practical learning
- Practical training will take place at Venetia Mine
- Classroom training will be provided at an accredited training centre in Randfontein
- Priority is given to local applicants from nearby municipalities
These requirements ensure that the programme develops skilled artisans while supporting local community development.
Conclusion
Engineering learnerships remain one of the most effective ways for young people to enter technical careers in the mining sector. They provide structured training while allowing learners to gain valuable industry experience.
The Engineering Learnership Programme offered by De Beers Group provides a strong foundation for those who want to become qualified artisans.
Through hands-on training at Venetia Mine, learners will develop the technical skills, workplace discipline, and safety awareness required in modern mining operations.
For individuals who are passionate about engineering and technical work, this programme offers a pathway into a rewarding long-term career in the mining industry.
FAQs
Who can apply for the De Beers Engineering Learnership?
Applicants must have Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science, an N2 engineering qualification, or an NCV Level 3 qualification with relevant subjects.
How long does the programme last?
The learnership runs for approximately four years.
Where will training take place?
Practical training will take place at Venetia Mine, while theoretical training will be conducted at an accredited training centre in Randfontein.
Do applicants need work experience?
No prior work experience is required to apply.
Are local applicants given preference?
Yes. Applicants from Musina Municipality and Blouberg Municipality are given priority consideration.