Valterra Platinum is offering an Engineering Learnership Programme for 2026, providing unemployed South Africans with an opportunity to develop skills towards nationally recognised artisan qualifications in multiple engineering trades within the mining and refining sectors.
About the Learnership
This 18.2 Unemployed Engineering Learnership is hosted at Valterra Platinum’s Rustenburg process operations, which include the Precious Metals Refinery (PMR), Base Metals Refinery (BMR), Convertor Plant (CP), and Waterval Smelters (WVS). Over 16 learner positions are available across six trades:
- Fitter (5 positions)
- Boilermaker (4 positions)
- Electrician (4 positions)
- Rigger (1 position)
- Instrument Mechanician (1 position)
- Millwright (1 position)
Learners will receive both off-the-job and on-the-job training designed to equip them with practical experience and theoretical knowledge relevant to mining, smelting, refining, and industrial maintenance environments.
Who Can Apply?
The programme targets unemployed individuals who hold one of the following qualifications:
- Matric or Technical Matric with at least 40% in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted under this route)
- N2 or higher certificates with the relevant subjects for the chosen trade
- NCV Level 4 trade qualifications with required subjects passed at 40% or higher
Applicants should carefully verify that their qualifications and subjects align with the specific trade requirements. For example, Electrician applicants need subjects like Electrical Trade Theory and Industrial Electronics, while Boilermaker applicants require Plating and Structural Steelwork subjects.
Trade-Specific Requirements
Each trade requires knowledge in technical or engineering subjects such as Mathematics and Engineering Science, as well as trade-specific theory and practice courses. Aligning one’s subjects with the intended trade is essential for eligibility.
Programme Locations and Allocation
The 16 learnership positions are distributed among four Valterra Platinum operational sites in Rustenburg:
- Precious Metals Refinery (PMR) – 4 positions
- Base Metals Refinery (BMR) – 5 positions
- Convertor Plant (CP) – 3 positions
- Waterval Smelters (WVS) – 4 positions
Application Requirements and Host Community Preference
Applicants must submit a comprehensive application including:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of relevant qualifications
- South African ID copy
- Proof of residence for applicants from host communities, stamped by the relevant tribal office or municipality
Valterra Platinum gives preference to candidates from host communities, emphasizing the importance of genuine proof of residence.
What Successful Learners Can Expect
Successful applicants will engage in structured training combining theoretical learning with practical workplace experience, culminating in a nationally recognised artisan qualification. This credential supports career development in mining, engineering, and industrial maintenance roles.
Important Considerations Before Applying
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Use career and qualification research tools such as the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to understand the trades and qualification pathways
- Prepare complete and accurate application documentation to avoid rejection due to incomplete submissions
- Apply early as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through Valterra Platinum’s official recruitment portal. Ensure that all documents are legible and assembled into a single file before uploading.
Access the application platform here: Apply Online for the Valterra Platinum Engineering Learnership Programme 2026.
Closing Date
The final date to submit applications is 30 September 2026.
