📌 Description
The Gold Fields Learnership Programme 2026, offered through the South Deep Gold Mine division, presents a valuable opportunity for young South Africans to gain structured training in engineering trades within the mining industry. This programme is specifically designed to develop future artisans by combining both practical workplace experience and formal technical training aligned with Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) standards.
As one of the leading gold mining companies globally, Gold Fields is committed to skills development, community upliftment, and sustainable employment creation. This learnership reflects that commitment by targeting individuals from host communities surrounding the South Deep Gold Mine in Westonaria.
Participants in this programme will be exposed to real mining operations while gaining hands-on technical skills in their chosen trade. The learnership aims to prepare candidates for formal trade testing, ultimately enabling them to qualify as artisans in high-demand engineering fields. It is a career-building opportunity for individuals who are passionate about engineering, willing to work in a mining environment, and committed to long-term professional growth.
💼 Available Positions
The programme offers learnership opportunities in the following engineering trades:
- Boilermaker / Plater Learnership
- Fitter Learnership
- Millwright Learnership
- Electrician Learnership
Each trade is designed to equip learners with specialized technical knowledge and practical experience relevant to their field. These roles are essential in maintaining and improving mining operations, making them highly valuable career paths.
🛠️ Responsibilities
Learners enrolled in the programme will be expected to actively participate in both theoretical and practical components of the training. Key responsibilities include:
- Attending all required technical training sessions aligned with MQA standards
- Participating in workplace-based learning under the supervision of qualified professionals
- Completing short courses and assessments as part of the programme
- Maintaining consistent performance and demonstrating a willingness to learn
- Engaging in development discussions and applying feedback to improve skills
In addition to training responsibilities, learners must adhere to workplace expectations, including:
- Following company policies and procedures
- Complying with strict health and safety regulations
- Wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times
- Promoting teamwork, collaboration, and a positive work culture
🎓 Qualifications
To qualify for the Gold Fields Learnership Programme, applicants must meet strict educational and technical requirements.
Minimum Academic Requirements:
- Grade 12 (Matric) with:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Full N3 Qualification (4 subjects), including:
- Engineering Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Relevant Trade Theory
- Engineering Drawing / Technology-related subject
Trade-Specific Requirements:
- Boilermaker / Plater: Mechano Technology + Structural Steel Drawing
- Fitter: Mechano Technology + Engineering Drawing
- Millwright: Trade Theory + Electrical/Fitting subjects
- Electrician: Electrical Trade Theory + Industrial Electronics
📍 Job Location
Westonaria, South Africa
Based at South Deep Gold Mine
This programme is strictly targeted at individuals residing in host communities around the mine, including:
- Bekkersdaal
- Zuurberkom
- Thusanang
- Hillshaven
- Westonaria
- Poortjie
- Simunye
- Kalbasfontein
- Jachtfontein
- Westonaria Borwa
Applicants must provide proof of residence to confirm eligibility.
📊 Experience
This is an entry-level learnership, meaning prior work experience is not required. However, candidates must demonstrate:
- A strong interest in engineering and mining
- Basic technical understanding from N3 studies
- Willingness to learn in a demanding environment
This programme is ideal for individuals who are looking to transition from theoretical studies into practical, industry-based training.
🧠 Skills
Successful candidates should possess the following skills and attributes:
- Strong technical aptitude and problem-solving ability
- Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- High level of discipline and responsibility
- Willingness to work in physically demanding conditions
- Adaptability in a structured and safety-focused environment
Additionally, candidates must align with Gold Fields’ core values:
- Safety
- Integrity
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Innovation
- Collaboration
🎁 Job Benefits
The Gold Fields Learnership Programme offers a wide range of benefits aimed at developing future artisans:
- ✔️ Hands-on engineering training in a real mining environment
- ✔️ Formal technical training aligned with MQA standards
- ✔️ Opportunity to gain a recognized trade qualification
- ✔️ Exposure to advanced mining technologies and operations
- ✔️ Development of workplace and technical skills
- ✔️ Enhanced employability in the mining and engineering sectors
Upon successful completion of the programme, learners may qualify as trade-tested artisans, opening doors to long-term career opportunities within the mining industry and beyond.
📬 How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through the official Gold Fields / South Deep Gold Mine recruitment channels.
Required Documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copies of Matric certificate
- N3 academic results
- Proof of residence (to confirm eligibility as a host community member)
Ensure that all documents are complete and submitted before the application deadline. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
| Position | Apply Link |
|---|---|
| Boilermaker / Plater Learnership | Apply Here |
| Fitter Learnership | Apply Here |
| Millwright Learnership | Apply Here |
| Electrician Learnership | Apply Here |
⚠️ Important Notes
- Only applicants from designated host communities will be considered
- Meeting N3 subject requirements is mandatory
- Candidates must be medically fit and pass:
- Occupational health assessment
- Heat tolerance screening
- The mining environment requires strict adherence to safety standards
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
If you meet the requirements and are ready to take the first step toward a rewarding engineering career, this learnership programme could be your gateway into the mining industry.
