South Africa’s mining industry continues to create valuable opportunities for aspiring artisans through structured workplace training programmes. Young South Africans who have completed Matric, NCV Level 4, or technical studies now have an opportunity to gain practical engineering experience through the Exxaro Matla Coal Engineering Learnership Programme 2026.
Exxaro Matla Coal is recruiting engineering learners for its operation in Kriel, Mpumalanga. The programme combines theoretical training with practical workplace exposure, allowing participants to develop critical technical skills while preparing for artisan careers within the mining and engineering sectors.
Applications close on 25 June 2026.
Opportunity Overview
- Employer: Exxaro Matla Coal
- Programme: Engineering Learnership Programme 2026
- Location: Kriel, Mpumalanga
- Closing Date: 25 June 2026
- Programme Type: Learnership / Workplace-Based Training
- Community Requirement: Applicants must reside within the Ga-Nala community
Engineering Trades Available
Successful applicants may receive training in one of the following engineering disciplines:
Diesel Mechanic
Learners will gain experience in:
- Diesel engine maintenance
- Equipment inspections
- Fault diagnosis
- Repairs and servicing
- Performance testing
Electrical
Training may include:
- Electrical installations
- Maintenance of electrical systems
- Fault finding
- Equipment testing
- Electrical safety procedures
Fitting (Including Machining)
Learners may develop skills in:
- Mechanical maintenance
- Equipment assembly
- Precision measurements
- Workshop practices
- Machinery repairs
Fitter and Turner
Participants may receive training in:
- Precision machining
- Mechanical fitting
- Manufacturing components
- Reading engineering drawings
- Machine tool operation
Plater Boilermaker
Training may include:
- Structural fabrication
- Metal component manufacturing
- Reading technical drawings
- Maintenance of mining structures
- Welding-related activities
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following qualification requirements.
Option 1: Grade 12 / Matric
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 / Standard 10
- English (40% or above)
- Mathematics (40% or above)
Important:
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
Option 2: NCV Level 4
Applicants must possess:
- NCV Level 4 qualification
- Minimum 40% in all subjects
Option 3: Technical High School Qualification
Applicants must have passed:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technical Drawing
All subjects must have been passed with at least 40%.
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Additional Trade Requirements
Applicants must also possess:
- Minimum N2 qualification
- Four completed trade theory subjects
Additional Requirement for Plater Boilermaker
Applicants must have Structural Steel Drawings as one of the four required N2 subjects.
Community Requirement
To qualify for consideration, applicants must:
- Reside within the Ga-Nala community
- Provide valid proof of residence
This forms part of Exxaro’s community development initiatives.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Certified NCV Level 4 certificate (if applicable)
- N2 qualification documents
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of residence
- Any additional trade-related certificates
Ensure all documents are certified, clear, and legible.
What Learners Can Expect
The learnership programme includes:
- Structured unit-standard-based learning
- Practical workplace experience
- Skills development under supervision
- Exposure to mining engineering environments
- Workplace assessments
- Artisan career preparation
Participants will be expected to maintain satisfactory performance, comply with workplace rules, and adhere to all safety standards.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications through the official Exxaro recruitment platform before the closing date.
APPLY FOR THE EXXARO COAL: ENGINEERING LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Closing Date: 25 June 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Completing an engineering learnership can help learners pursue careers such as:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Turner
- Boilermaker
- Maintenance Artisan
- Mining Engineering Technician
These skills are sought after across mining, manufacturing, energy, logistics, and industrial sectors.
Expert Application Tips
Because mining learnerships attract large numbers of applicants, candidates should:
- Update their CV before applying.
- Ensure all supporting documents are certified.
- Verify that Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) meets the minimum requirement.
- Check that N2 subjects match the chosen trade.
- Submit applications well before the deadline.
- Prepare for aptitude tests and interviews.
Candidates who demonstrate technical interest, attention to detail, and commitment to artisan development often perform well during the selection process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the learnership based?
The programme is hosted at Exxaro Matla Coal in Kriel, Mpumalanga.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 25 June 2026.
Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
No. Applicants must have Mathematics.
Is proof of residence required?
Yes. Applicants must reside within the Ga-Nala community and provide proof of residence.
Do I need an N2 qualification?
Yes. A minimum N2 qualification with four trade theory subjects is required.
Can qualified artisans apply?
No. Qualified artisans will not be considered.
Does completing the learnership guarantee employment?
No. Successful completion does not guarantee permanent employment, but it provides valuable industry-recognised workplace experience.
About the Author
Martine Smith is a South African opportunities and career development writer specialising in SETA programmes, learnerships, internships, apprenticeships, bursaries, and employment opportunities. His work focuses on helping job seekers understand application requirements, career pathways, and skills development opportunities available across South Africa.
My SETA Portal Disclaimer
My SETA Portal shares opportunity information for educational and informational purposes. We are not the recruiting organisation and cannot influence application outcomes. Applicants should always verify details through the official employer or training provider before submitting applications.
Martine Smith is the Founder and Managing Editor of MySETA Portal, he writes about SETA learnerships, internships, bursaries and youth employment opportunities in South Africa. His goal is to help young people access trusted career information and skills development programmes. Email: info@mysetaportal.co.za