Explore the Northam Eland Platinum Mine Learnerships 2026, a 36-month artisanal training programme offering practical mining experience and a pathway to an artisan qualification. Learn about requirements, trades available, and how to apply.
If you’ve been searching for a real chance to build a strong future in the mining industry, the Northam Eland Platinum Mine Learnerships 2026 offer exactly that. This structured 36-month programme has been designed to open doors for motivated young South Africans who want to gain hands-on experience, receive recognised training, and work toward an Artisan qualification in high-demand mining trades.
This opportunity provides you with technical, practical, and workplace exposure that gives you a solid foundation to grow in one of South Africa’s most valuable sectors. The mine is offering learning paths in several key engineering and mechanical trades, making this one of the most promising development programmes for unemployed youth interested in a long-term technical career.
Quick Overview
Programme: 36-Month Mining Learnerships
Trades Offered: Diesel Electrical Fitter, Auto Electrician, Heavy Equipment Mechanic, Plater/Welder
Location: Northam Eland Platinum Mine, North West Province
Minimum Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with relevant subjects, minimum 40% in required subjects, medical fitness
Contract Duration: 36 months
Closing Date: 14 December 2025
Reference Numbers: DEF04, HEM04, AUT04, PLT04
About Northam Eland Platinum Mine
Northam Eland Platinum Mine operates under the Northam Platinum Limited Group, one of South Africa’s major producers of platinum group metals. Located in the North West Province, the mine continues to grow through modern systems and a strong focus on community development, economic growth, and skills upliftment.
The mine is committed to:
- Sustainable and efficient PGM extraction
- Creating long-term employment opportunities
- Providing technical training for local youth
- Empowering communities through structured development programmes
The learnership forms part of the Smart Platinum Mining strategy, which blends modern mining practices with top-tier artisan training.
Why This Learnership Matters
Mining remains one of the country’s biggest contributors to employment, especially in engineering and technical fields. As mines adopt new technologies, skilled artisans continue to be essential.
This learnership provides:
- A guided career path in engineering
- Industry-recognised training
- Workplace exposure in a real mining environment
- Valuable experience that increases employability
- A pathway to a permanent role after qualification
For anyone dreaming of an artisan or engineering future, Northam Eland is a strong starting point.
Learnership Role Overview (What You Will Learn)
The programme runs over 36 months and includes a blend of theoretical, practical, and workplace-based training.
Theoretical Training
You will attend classroom-based modules that form part of your artisan curriculum and give you the foundation required for more advanced learning.
Practical Workplace Training
This includes hands-on training inside the mine, working with heavy machines, electrical systems, mechanical tools, welding equipment, and technical components depending on your trade.
Trade-Specific Skills
Your chosen trade determines your learning plan, with the aim of helping you qualify as a recognised Artisan at the end of the programme.
Minimum Requirements
To apply successfully, you must meet the academic and basic entry requirements.
School Requirements
You must have completed:
Option 1: Grade 12 with the following subjects:
- Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy)
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
- Relevant Trade Theory (Diesel, Electrical, or Plater/Welder)
OR
Option 2: N2 Qualification
- Four relevant subjects aligned with your chosen trade
OR
Option 3: NCV Level 4
- Seven relevant subjects
A minimum of 40% (E-symbol) in all relevant subjects is required.
Conduct and Behaviour
Only applicants with good conduct records will be considered.
Medical Fitness
Because the work environment is physically demanding, a valid Medical Certificate of Fitness is essential.
Residency Preference
First preference is given to unemployed youth from the communities surrounding the mine.
Available Learnerships and Reference Numbers
When you apply, include the correct reference number for your chosen trade.
| Learnership | Reference Code |
|---|---|
| Diesel Electrical Fitter | DEF04 |
| Heavy Equipment Mechanic | HEM04 |
| Auto Electrician | AUT04 |
| Plater/Welder | PLT04 |
Compulsory Subjects Per Trade
Your application must match the subjects needed for your chosen path.
Common Required Subjects
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Drawing
Trade Theory Subjects
Choose the trade theory aligned to your learnership:
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Electrical Trade Theory
- Plater/Welder Trade Theory
These subjects prepare you for the technical nature of the training.
How to Apply
Send your CV and certified copies of your ID and qualifications to:
HRApplicationsEL@norplats.co.za
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within 21 days after the closing date, your application was not successful.
- Proof of residency is required.
- Northam follows Employment Equity principles.
Conclusion
The Northam Eland Platinum Mine Learnerships 2026 provide a powerful opportunity for young South Africans who want to build a long-term future in the mining and engineering sectors. With a structured three-year programme, practical experience, and industry-recognised training, this is your chance to gain the skills that can open doors to stable, meaningful employment. If you meet the requirements and have the drive to succeed, submitting your application could be the first step toward a rewarding artisan career.
