The application deadline was 28 August 2026.
Nampak Metals in Vanderbijlpark is recruiting six apprentices for its 2026 intake across mechanical and electrical trades. The current Nampak apprenticeship programme includes two Mechanical Fitter positions, two Electrical positions and two Fitter & Turner positions. Successful candidates will complete theoretical trade modules and intensive workplace training while supporting production and maintenance activity at the manufacturing site. The intake is suited to Matric candidates who also hold an NTC3 or higher technical certificate and want to build toward a skilled artisan career in manufacturing.
Nampak Apprentice Intake Overview
- Company: Nampak Metals
- Location: Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng
- Total Apprenticeships: 6
- Programme Type: Apprenticeship / Contract
- Application Deadline: 28 August 2026
Available Trades
- Mechanical Fitter — 2 apprentices
- Electrical — 2 apprentices
- Fitter & Turner — 2 apprentices
Training Structure
Apprenticeships combine theory with supervised practical work. Nampak states that participants will complete the theoretical modules required for their trade and receive intensive on-the-job training. The practical element places learners around manufacturing equipment and maintenance activity, allowing them to develop familiarity with installations, troubleshooting and the technical work needed to keep production equipment reliable.
The apprentices will also support the production environment as they learn. This is important because artisan training is not separated from the needs of the plant: candidates need to understand how maintenance quality, equipment availability and safe working practices affect normal manufacturing operations.
Minimum Academic Requirements
- Matric with Mathematics.
- Physical Science.
- English as a second language.
- Minimum 50% pass mark in the required subjects.
- NTC3 or higher technical certificate with transcript.
- Relevant trade theory aligned with the apprenticeship selected.
Practical Responsibilities
- Complete the prescribed theoretical trade modules.
- Participate in structured on-the-job technical training.
- Assist with practical maintenance and installation work under supervision.
- Learn troubleshooting methods used in the selected trade.
- Support production reliability and equipment availability.
- Follow safety rules and manufacturing procedures.
- Work with team members and qualified technical employees.
Skills and Working Requirements
Nampak looks for candidates with a basic understanding of engineering concepts and the ability to use computers at a basic level. Communication and interpersonal skills are also relevant because apprentices learn from mentors and work as part of maintenance and production teams. The recruitment information also highlights a positive attitude, initiative and a systematic approach to work.
Candidates need to be prepared for the realities of a manufacturing environment, including overtime or shift work where required. Technical work may be scheduled around production needs, breakdowns and planned maintenance, so flexibility can be important during an apprenticeship.
Why Trade Training Matters
Mechanical Fitters, Electricians and Fitters & Turners perform different technical functions, but all three trades are important to industrial production. Mechanical fitters focus on machinery and components, electrical apprentices learn around electrical systems and equipment, while fitting and turning combines mechanical fitting with machining skills. The apprenticeship gives candidates a structured route to develop these capabilities under workplace supervision.
Documents Required
- CV limited to a maximum of two pages.
- Matric certificate showing subjects and marks.
- NTC3 certificate or higher technical qualification.
- Academic transcript for the technical qualification.
What the Three Trades Involve
The three apprenticeship streams build different but complementary artisan skills. Mechanical Fitting focuses on installing, maintaining and repairing mechanical equipment and components. Electrical training develops competence around electrical systems and safe electrical work. Fitter & Turner training combines fitting skills with the machining and shaping of components to required measurements. The selected trade determines the detailed practical modules an apprentice will complete.
In a packaging manufacturing environment, these trades help keep production equipment available and operating safely. Apprentices learn under supervision rather than being expected to work as qualified artisans from the start. As their competence develops, they can take on more practical tasks while still following the training programme and safety rules of the site.
Working Safely in Manufacturing
Safety is an important part of artisan training because apprentices work around machinery, electrical systems, tools and production equipment. Following procedures, using the correct tools and asking for guidance when unsure are essential habits during training. The programme’s emphasis on teamwork and a systematic approach supports this learning process and prepares candidates for the discipline expected in a technical manufacturing career.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted by email to Recruitment.VDBP@nampak.com. Use Application Apprentice Intake 2026 as the subject line and attach the required documents.
