Seriti Engineering Learnership 2026 Opens For Five Artisan Trades
Despite recent disruptions, the mining industry still relies on skilled artisans to keep operations running safely and efficiently. From maintaining heavy machinery to repairing electrical systems and lifting equipment, qualified tradespeople play a critical part in daily mining activities.
Seriti is now looking to develop the next generation of artisans through its Engineering Learnership 18.2 programme at Middelburg Mine Services in Mpumalanga.
Applications are open for several engineering trades, giving young people from mining communities an opportunity to work towards becoming qualified artisans.
The closing date for applications is 12 June 2026.
Five Trades Available
Unlike learnerships that focus on a single occupation, this programme offers opportunities across multiple engineering disciplines.
Applicants can apply for one of the following trades:
- Auto Electrician
- Boilermaker
- Diesel Mechanic
- Fitter
- Rigger
Each trade supports a different part of mining operations, but all of them are linked by one common goal: keeping equipment and infrastructure operating safely and reliably.
Because applicants must indicate their chosen trade when applying, it is important to understand which path best matches their interests and subjects.
What Learners Are Training Towards?
The purpose of the learnership is not simply to provide workplace exposure.
The programme is designed to help successful candidates develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to eventually qualify as artisans.
Throughout the learnership, participants will be exposed to technical training, workplace learning, and trade-specific activities under supervision.
Depending on the trade selected, learners may gain experience in areas such as:
- Equipment maintenance
- Fault finding
- Mechanical repairs
- Electrical systems
- Structural fabrication
- Rigging operations
- Mining equipment servicing
- Safety procedures
- Engineering inspections
This combination of theoretical and practical training forms the foundation of artisan development.
Choosing The Right Trade
Each trade has its own subject requirements and technical focus.
Auto Electrician
This trade focuses on electrical systems found in mining vehicles and equipment.
Required N2 subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Industrial Electronics
- Electrical Trade Theory
Boilermaker
Boilermakers work with metal structures, fabrication, and repairs.
Required N2 subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Plating and Structural Steel Drawing
- Plater Trade Theory
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel mechanics maintain and repair diesel-powered mining machinery and vehicles.
Required N2 subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
- Diesel or Motor Trade Theory
Fitter
Fitters focus on mechanical equipment, machinery installation, maintenance, and repairs.
Required N2 subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
- Fitting and Machining Theory
Rigger
Riggers specialise in lifting equipment and moving heavy loads safely.
Required N2 subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
- Mechanotechnology
The Entry Requirements Are Technical
This opportunity is aimed at applicants who have already started building an engineering foundation.
Candidates must have either:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science, plus two relevant N2 trade subjects
or
- N2 qualification with four relevant trade-related subjects
In addition:
- Mathematics must be passed (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted)
- Minimum E symbol (40%) is required
- Subjects with F symbols will not be accepted
The qualification requirements reflect the technical nature of artisan training and the work environment learners will eventually enter.
More Than Academic Results
Technical qualifications are important, but Seriti is also looking for candidates who can perform in demanding workplace environments.
Applicants should be able to:
- Work under pressure
- Show initiative
- Solve problems independently
- Demonstrate innovation
- Work shifts when required
- Be available for standby duties and call-outs
- Adapt to changing operational needs
Candidates will also be required to undergo psychometric assessments as part of the selection process.
Mining Conditions Are Different From Office Jobs
Applicants considering this programme should understand that mining environments can be physically demanding.
Successful candidates must:
- Be medically fit or able to obtain a Certificate of Fitness
- Be willing to work shifts
- Be comfortable working in operational mining environments
- Be prepared for standby and emergency call-out duties
These requirements are common across many artisan occupations in the mining sector.
Preference For Local Communities
Seriti says preference will be given to applicants from local host communities.
Because of this, proof of residence must be included with applications.
The company uses these programmes not only to develop technical skills but also to support skills development within communities located near mining operations.
Applicants should ensure that their proof of residence is included with all other supporting documents.
Documents Needed Before Applying
Applications must include certified documents that are not older than three months.
Required documents include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of driver’s licence
- Proof of residence
Applications that do not include all required documents may not be considered.
Why Artisan Training Continues To Matter?
Many industries are experiencing growing demand for qualified artisans.
Mining, manufacturing, construction, transport, and energy companies all rely on skilled tradespeople to maintain equipment and support operations.
While office-based careers often receive more attention, artisan careers continue to offer opportunities for long-term employment and technical specialisation.
Programmes such as this learnership help create the pipeline of skilled workers needed to support South Africa’s industrial sectors.
About Seriti
Seriti is a South African mining company with operations focused on supplying coal to both domestic and international markets.
The company employs thousands of people across its mining operations and continues to invest in skills development, training, and workforce development initiatives.
The Engineering Learnership programme forms part of these efforts to develop future technical talent for the mining sector.
How To Apply
Candidates can submit their application through the official application portal.
Programme details:
- Employer: Seriti
- Programme: Engineering Learnership 18.2
- Reference Number: MMS051/26GS
- Location: Middelburg Mine Services, Mpumalanga
- Closing Date: 12 June 2026
Applicants should clearly indicate which trade they are applying for and ensure all supporting documents are attached before submitting their application.
In Conclusion
For young people who enjoy working with machinery, equipment, and technical systems, artisan careers can provide a clear pathway into the mining industry.
Seriti’s Engineering Learnership offers opportunities across five different trades, allowing candidates to develop specialised skills while working towards becoming qualified artisans. For applicants who meet the technical requirements and are ready for the demands of mining operations, this programme could be the first step towards a long-term engineering career.
