Apprenticeship (South Africa)

Reference Number: AO-1864
Closing Date: 08 August 2025
Location: South Africa
Job Level: Student / Graduate
Job Type: Fixed-Term Contract (3 Years)
Salary: Market-Related
Employment Equity Position: No

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Introduction

AFGRI, a leading agricultural services company in South Africa, invites applications for its 2025 Apprenticeship Programme. This opportunity is strictly available to South African matriculants who are passionate about pursuing a career as a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic. The programme offers a structured learning path that combines practical workplace experience, formal theoretical instruction, and product-specific training to ensure comprehensive skills development in the mechanical field.

Programme Overview

The apprenticeship spans a three-year period and is designed to develop technical and professional capabilities through an in-depth, practical training programme. Successful candidates will undergo an initial six-month probation period to ensure the long-term suitability of the relationship between the apprentice and the company. During this time, either party may opt to withdraw from the programme without financial or contractual obligations.

Upon successful completion of the probation period, candidates will be formally enrolled in the AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme under contract. Training includes attendance at a Practical Training Institute for various mechanical phases, as well as theoretical studies through distance learning at a registered college (where applicable). Saturday classes may be required. Apprentices will also receive internal training from AFGRI, along with product-specific instruction from major suppliers such as John Deere.

Key Features of the Programme

• Three-year in-service training in Tractor or Earthmoving Mechanics.

• Combination of theoretical learning (N subjects or Matric alternatives) and practical, on-site training.

• Product training offered by AFGRI and industry partners.

• No training fees applicable for modules passed; modules failed will need to be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost and time.

• A work-back obligation applies upon successful qualification. Early withdrawal from the programme or during the work-back period may incur financial penalties based on the cost of training received.

• The contract period is a maximum of four years. If the apprentice has not qualified within that time, the contract will expire.

Responsibilities

Apprentices will perform the following duties under supervision:

• Assist in the repair and maintenance of tractors and related agricultural equipment.

• Gain experience in fault diagnosis, component replacement, and equipment servicing.

• Support inventory management and stock control procedures.

• Participate in customer service activities and general workshop duties.

• Comply with safety regulations and workshop standards.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• South African Matric Certificate with the following subjects passed:

  • Mathematics (Not Mathematical Literacy)

  • Physical Science or Technical Science

  • Engineering Graphics and Design (optional but advantageous)

  • Technical Mathematics (if applicable)

Or

• N2 Certificate with the following subjects:

  • Mathematics

  • Engineering Science

  • Diesel Trade Theory

  • Plus one of the following:

    • Industrial Electronics

    • Engineering / Technical Drawing

    • Motor Trade Theory

Additional Requirements:

• Valid South African driver’s licence

• Basic administrative and computer literacy skills

• Clear communication skills (both verbal and written)

• Willingness to participate in both distance learning and Saturday classes, if required

Note: Applicants who do not possess the N2 Certificate may still apply, provided their matric subjects align with the technical requirements. AFGRI may sponsor the completion of N2 subjects as part of the apprenticeship programme.

Desired Attributes and Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following qualities:

• Self-motivated and eager to learn

• Detail-oriented and organised

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment

• Focused on personal and professional development

• Deadline-driven and responsible

• Committed to the full duration of the apprenticeship

Selection Process

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

All shortlisted candidates will be required to:

• Complete online screening and assessment questions (approximately 30 minutes)

• Participate in interviews and/or practical assessments

• Provide original copies of qualifications, identity documentation, and driver’s licence upon request

Candidates should set aside approximately 60 minutes to complete the full application process. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Important Information

• This advertisement is exclusively for matriculants. A separate advertisement for all other applicants will be published in August or September 2025.

• No application fees or training costs are charged for accepted apprentices. However, repeated training for failed modules must be self-funded.

• Apprenticeship contracts are governed by AFGRI policies and may include financial obligations in the event of early withdrawal.

• AFGRI reserves the right to withdraw or modify this advertisement at any time.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who have not received feedback within 30 days of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.

About AFGRI

AFGRI is one of South Africa’s most respected providers of agricultural services and solutions. With a national presence and strong industry relationships, AFGRI is committed to developing the next generation of skilled professionals in the agricultural and mechanical fields. The company’s investment in apprenticeships reflects its dedication to education, skills transfer, and economic empowerment.

Application Guidelines

To apply:

1. Visit the AFGRI Careers Portal.

2. Locate the Apprenticeship Programme 2025 listing (Reference Number AO-1864).

3. Complete all required fields and upload your supporting documents.

4. Ensure all information provided is accurate and up to date.

5. Submit your application before the closing date: 08 August 2025.

Candidates are encouraged to apply early to avoid system errors or delays close to the deadline.

Contact

For any inquiries regarding this apprenticeship opportunity, please refer to the AFGRI website or careers portal, and quote the reference number AO-1864 when making contact.