The Transnet Academy, through its Faculty of Engineering and Pipelines, has re-advertised its Apprenticeship Programme 2026 for eligible young South Africans.

The programme offers opportunities for aspiring artisans in six technical disciplines:

• Electrical
• Welder
• Boilermaker
• Fitter & Turner
• Millwright
• Mechanical Fitter

The apprenticeship programme is designed to provide structured technical training and practical workplace experience to candidates working towards becoming competent qualified artisans. Transnet’s Faculty of Engineering and Pipelines confirms that its artisan development programmes combine theoretical, practical and workplace learning.

Applicants must be South African citizens aged between 18 and 30 years and must meet the academic requirements for the trade they select.

The re-advertised vacancies close on 27 October 2026.

Transnet Apprenticeship Programme 2026: Quick Overview

The individual Transnet vacancy confirms that applicants are responsible for ensuring that their applications reach HR before the closing date.

What Is the Transnet Apprenticeship Programme?

The Transnet Academy provides technical and artisan development programmes through its Faculty of Engineering and Pipelines.

Transnet describes its artisan development as structured training that combines theoretical knowledge, practical training and workplace learning. Its artisan programmes are aimed at developing people towards trade qualifications and artisan careers.

The 2026 apprenticeship intake gives qualifying young people an opportunity to develop skills in technical trades that support Transnet’s engineering, rail, port and pipeline operations.

The programme is therefore particularly relevant to candidates who have already completed technical studies and want to build practical workplace competence.

Apprenticeship Trades Available

Six apprenticeship disciplines are listed in the re-advertised opportunity.

1. Electrical Apprenticeship

The Electrical apprenticeship is aimed at candidates who want to develop technical skills relating to electrical equipment, installations and control systems.

Training activities can include:

• Preparing work areas and equipment.
• Using hand, power and measuring tools.
• Installing and connecting electrical equipment.
• Working with control systems.
• Testing electrical installations.
• Inspecting equipment.
• Commissioning systems.
• Maintaining electrical equipment.
• Repairing electrical components.

The official Transnet Electrician vacancy confirms these types of position outputs.

2. Welder Apprenticeship

The Welder apprenticeship is designed for candidates interested in developing practical welding and fabrication skills.

Apprentices can develop competencies related to:

• Preparing work areas.
• Preparing tools and materials.
• Manufacturing components.
• Assembling components.
• Inspecting completed work.
• Modifying components.
• Repairing components.
• Following technical and safety procedures.

The purpose is to develop the practical competence required for progression towards qualified artisan status.

3. Boilermaker Apprenticeship

The Boilermaker apprenticeship is suitable for candidates interested in fabrication, assembly and maintenance work.

The training pathway can involve working with:

• Metal components
• Tools and equipment
• Fabrication processes
• Assemblies
• Technical drawings and specifications
• Inspection and maintenance activities

Applicants must ensure that their academic subjects meet the requirements for the Boilermaker vacancy.

4. Fitter & Turner Apprenticeship

The Fitter & Turner opportunity is aimed at candidates interested in mechanical fitting, machining and maintenance.

Learners can develop practical skills related to:

• Preparing equipment and tools.
• Using measuring equipment.
• Fitting components.
• Assembly work.
• Maintenance.
• Inspection.
• Repair activities.

The specific technical requirements depend on the qualification route used by the applicant.

5. Millwright Apprenticeship

Millwright apprentices develop skills across mechanical and electrical equipment and systems.

The opportunity can be relevant to candidates interested in industrial machinery, maintenance and technical troubleshooting.

Applicants should ensure that their qualification contains the relevant trade theory and subjects required by Transnet.

6. Mechanical Fitter Apprenticeship

The Mechanical Fitter apprenticeship focuses on mechanical equipment and maintenance-related skills.

Training can include:

• Preparing work areas.
• Using technical tools.
• Fitting components.
• Assembly.
• Inspection.
• Maintenance.
• Testing.
• Repairs.

The vacancy is intended for applicants who want to progress towards an artisan career in mechanical fitting.

Transnet Apprenticeship Requirements 2026

Applicants must meet the academic, citizenship and age requirements.

The official Transnet Electrician vacancy confirms the following qualification routes.

N2 to N6 Certificate

Applicants may qualify with an N2, N3, N4, N5 or N6 Certificate containing subjects relevant to the selected trade.

The qualification should include relevant:

• Trade Theory
• Engineering Science
• Mathematics
• Other relevant subjects

The exact trade subjects depend on the apprenticeship being applied for.

NCV Level 4

Applicants can also qualify through an NCV Level 4 certificate.

The qualification must contain relevant:

• Trade Theory
• Mathematics
• Vocational subjects

Technical Grade 12

Applicants with a Technical Grade 12 qualification may also qualify.

The listed subjects include:

• Mathematics
• Physical Science
• Relevant Trade Theory

Applicants should ensure that their subjects are relevant to the particular trade they select.

Mathematics Requirement

Applicants must have passed Mathematics with at least 50%.

This requirement is specifically confirmed in the official Transnet vacancy.

Candidates should therefore check their academic records carefully before applying.

The requirement is for Mathematics, rather than simply assuming that any numeracy-related subject will be accepted.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be between:

18 and 30 years old

This age requirement is stated in the official Transnet apprenticeship vacancy.

South African Citizenship

The apprenticeship programme is intended for:

South African citizens.

Applicants should ensure that they can provide the required identification documentation during the application process.

You Must Not Already Have a Red Seal

One important requirement is that applicants must not already hold a trade certificate / Red Seal.

The purpose of the apprenticeship is to develop candidates who still need the relevant artisan training and qualification pathway.

If you already hold a Red Seal trade certificate, this particular apprenticeship opportunity is therefore not intended for you.

Skills and Competencies

Transnet is looking for candidates who can demonstrate qualities such as:

• Problem-solving
• Communication
• Analytical thinking
• Teamwork
• Willingness to learn
• Technical interest
• Ability to work in a structured environment

These competencies are important because apprentices work in practical technical environments where safety, accuracy and teamwork are essential.

What Will Transnet Apprentices Learn?

The apprenticeship is designed to combine technical theory with practical workplace experience.

Successful apprentices can develop skills in:

Work Preparation

Preparing work areas, tools, equipment, materials and consumables before beginning technical tasks.

Technical Tools

Using:

• Hand tools
• Power tools
• Measuring equipment
• Trade-specific equipment

Installation and Assembly

Apprentices can develop skills in fitting, connecting, manufacturing and assembling components.

Testing and Inspection

Training includes checking equipment and installations to ensure that work meets the required technical standards.

Maintenance and Repairs

Learners will develop practical skills related to identifying problems, maintaining equipment and carrying out repairs under the appropriate supervision.

Workplace Safety

Technical apprenticeships require candidates to follow applicable safety and workplace procedures.

Apprenticeship Locations

The exact location depends on the trade and vacancy.

Current Transnet apprenticeship listings include locations such as:

• Koedoespoort
• Germiston
• Bloemfontein
• Salt River
• North End
• Cambridge
• Durban

The locations can differ between trades, so applicants should check the individual vacancy before applying.

For example, the official Electrician vacancy currently lists Koedoespoort, Salt River, North End, Cambridge and Durban.

Apprenticeship Duration

The supplied re-advertisement does not state the programme duration.

Transnet describes its apprenticeship and artisan-development programmes as structured programmes combining theoretical, practical and workplace learning, but applicants should rely on the specific vacancy or learner agreement for the exact duration.

Applicants should therefore avoid assuming that every Transnet apprenticeship has exactly the same duration.

Is There a Stipend or Salary?

The supplied re-advertisement does not state a stipend or salary amount.

Applicants should not rely on figures posted on unofficial websites or social media unless the amount is confirmed by Transnet in the official vacancy or learner agreement.

The same applies to claims about accommodation, transport allowances or other benefits.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare their supporting documents before starting the online application.

These may include:

• Updated CV
• South African ID
• Relevant N2–N6 certificate
• NCV Level 4 certificate, where applicable
• Technical Grade 12 qualification, where applicable
• Academic records
• Other qualifications relevant to the selected trade

The official vacancy specifically requires applicants to attach relevant qualifications and academic records.

Applicants should make sure that uploaded documents are clear and readable.

How to Apply for the Transnet Apprenticeship Programme 2026

Applications are submitted online through the Transnet Talent Portal.

Apply through the Transnet Talent Portal

Step 1: Choose Your Trade

Decide which apprenticeship best matches your qualification and career interests:

• Electrical
• Welder
• Boilermaker
• Fitter & Turner
• Millwright
• Mechanical Fitter

Step 2: Check the Requirements

Confirm that you:

• Are a South African citizen.
• Are aged 18–30.
• Have the relevant technical qualification.
• Have Mathematics at 50% or higher.
• Do not already hold a Red Seal.
• Have the required academic record.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Have your ID, CV, qualifications and academic records ready.

Step 4: Find the Correct Vacancy

Search the Transnet Talent Portal for the apprenticeship matching your trade.

Do not apply for a trade simply because it is available. Your academic subjects and technical qualification should match the requirements of the vacancy.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

Enter your personal and academic information accurately.

Upload all requested supporting documents.

Step 6: Submit Before the Closing Date

The closing date for the re-advertised opportunity is:

27 October 2026

The official vacancy states that applicants are responsible for ensuring that HR receives the application before the closing date.

Transnet Apprenticeship Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, check that you:

• Are a South African citizen.
• Are between 18 and 30 years old.
• Have Mathematics at 50% or higher.
• Have the relevant N2–N6 qualification, NCV Level 4 or Technical Grade 12.
• Have the relevant trade subjects.
• Have an updated CV.
• Have your academic record.
• Have your South African ID.
• Do not already have a Red Seal trade certificate.
• Have selected the trade that matches your qualifications.
• Have checked the specific vacancy location.
• Have uploaded all required documents.
• Have submitted your application before 27 October 2026.

Important Advice for Applicants

Do not apply for all six trades without checking the academic requirements.

Each trade has its own technical focus, and applicants should select the vacancy that matches their subjects and qualifications.

Also check the location of the apprenticeship. Transnet vacancies can be based at different sites across South Africa, depending on the trade.

Finally, be careful of scams.

Transnet’s official recruitment process should be used when applying. Do not pay anyone who promises to secure an apprenticeship, interview or job for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Transnet Apprenticeship Programme 2026?

South African citizens aged 18–30 who meet the academic and technical requirements for the selected apprenticeship can apply.

Which trades are available?

The re-advertised programme covers:

• Electrical
• Welder
• Boilermaker
• Fitter & Turner
• Millwright
• Mechanical Fitter

What qualifications are accepted?

Applicants can qualify through an N2–N6 certificate, NCV Level 4, or Technical Grade 12, provided the required subjects are relevant to the selected trade.

What Mathematics mark is required?

Applicants must have passed Mathematics with at least 50%.

Can I apply if I already have a Red Seal?

No. The official vacancy states that applicants must not already have a trade certificate / Red Seal.

Is there a stipend?

The supplied apprenticeship information does not state a stipend or salary amount.

How long is the apprenticeship?

The exact duration is not stated in the supplied re-advertisement. Applicants should check the specific vacancy and learner agreement for the applicable programme duration.

Where are the apprenticeships located?

Locations vary by trade and can include Koedoespoort, Germiston, Bloemfontein, Salt River, North End, Cambridge and Durban.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the Transnet Talent Portal.

When is the closing date?

The re-advertised official vacancy closes on 27 October 2026.

Transnet Apprenticeship Programme 2026 Summary

Conclusion

The Transnet Academy Apprenticeship Programme 2026 gives young South Africans an opportunity to develop practical artisan skills through the Faculty of Engineering and Pipelines.

The re-advertised intake covers six technical disciplines: Electrical, Welder, Boilermaker, Fitter & Turner, Millwright and Mechanical Fitter.

Applicants must generally be South African citizens aged 18–30, have the relevant technical qualification, achieve at least 50% in Mathematics, and must not already hold a Red Seal trade certificate.

Because requirements and locations can differ between individual vacancies, applicants should carefully select the trade that matches their qualifications and check the specific Transnet Talent Portal listing before applying.

If you meet the requirements, prepare your CV, ID, qualifications and academic records and submit your application through the official Transnet recruitment portal before 27 October 2026.