Rio Tinto is inviting applications from suitably qualified and motivated South African youth for the 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme and the 2026 Work Integrated Learning Programme (P1/P2) at Richards Bay Minerals in KwaZulu-Natal. These development programmes present valuable opportunities for unemployed individuals and students seeking practical workplace experience and professional development within the mining and minerals sector.
Positions:
- Artisan Learnership Programme (Occupationally Directed Qualification Trades)
- Work Integrated Learning Programme (P1/P2)
Both programmes are designed to support skills development, career growth, and workforce readiness through structured learning and practical exposure. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to gain industry-relevant experience while working within one of the leading mining and metals companies in the world.
2026 Artisan Learnership Programme (Occupationally Directed Qualification Trades)
Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Reference Number; R57649
About the Learnership Programme
The 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme is a structured occupational training programme aimed at developing skilled artisans through a combination of theoretical learning, practical training, and workplace experience.
The programme leads to a nationally recognised trade qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will receive a Trade Certificate issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
The programme is designed to ensure that learners acquire the technical knowledge, practical skills, and workplace competencies required to perform effectively in their chosen trade. This training pathway contributes to the development of highly skilled artisans capable of meeting the demands of South Africa’s industrial and mining sectors.
Occupational Trade Certificates Available
Applications are invited for the following trade disciplines:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boiler Maker
- Millwright
- Refractory Mason
- Electrician
- Mechanical Fitter
- Instrumentation
Each trade offers participants the opportunity to gain specialised skills and practical experience while working in a dynamic industrial environment.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Targeted at unemployed youth
- Successfully completed Grade 12 (Matric)
- Mathematics must be Core Mathematics
- Physical Science or Technical Matric is required
- Possess a relevant trade-related qualification
- Hold a valid South African driver’s licence with a minimum Code B classification
- Must not currently be registered on an active learnership or apprenticeship funded by a SETA or private organisation
- Residential address must be within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal
Only candidates who meet all minimum requirements will be considered for further stages of the selection process.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following documentation:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Grade 12/Matric certificate
- Certified copy of trade qualification
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document
- Certified copy of valid South African driver’s licence
- Certified proof of residence or domicile address
- Affidavit confirming that the applicant is not currently participating in a registered SETA-funded learning programme
Incomplete applications or missing supporting documents may result in disqualification.
Selection Process
Acceptance into the Artisan Learnership Programme will depend on:
- Meeting all minimum requirements
- Successful completion of interviews
- Successful completion of assessments
- Verification of submitted documentation
Only shortlisted candidates will proceed through the selection process.
Benefits of the Artisan Learnership Programme
Participants can expect to gain:
- Industry-recognised artisan training
- Practical workplace exposure
- Technical and occupational skills development
- Professional mentorship and guidance
- Increased employability within the mining and engineering sectors
- Nationally recognised trade certification upon successful completion
The programme serves as an important stepping stone for young South Africans seeking long-term careers in engineering, maintenance, and technical trades.
Closing Date
Applications for the 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme close on: 29 May 2026
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit applications before the closing date to avoid disappointment.
2026 Work Integrated Learning Programme (P1/P2) – Richards Bay Minerals
Location; Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Reference Number: R57647
About the Programme
The Work Integrated Learning Programme (P1/P2) has been developed to provide University of Technology students with practical workplace experience required for the completion of their academic qualifications.
The programme focuses on bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice. Through structured workplace training, students will gain exposure to real operational environments while developing technical and professional competencies relevant to their fields of study.
Participants will be placed within Richards Bay Minerals operations where they will receive hands-on experience aligned with institutional requirements and workplace expectations.
The programme contributes significantly to preparing graduates for future employment opportunities within mining, engineering, and related sectors.
Fields of Study
Applications are invited from students studying within:
- Engineering disciplines
- Humanities disciplines
Candidates must be enrolled at a recognised University of Technology and require P1/P2 workplace experience to complete their qualification.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be an unemployed South African youth
- Must be a final-year student at a University of Technology
- Must have completed Grade 12 (Matric)
- Must possess a valid South African driver’s licence with a minimum Code B classification
- Must not have previously completed Work Experience, P1/P2 Training, or Vacation Work funded by a SETA or private company
- P1/P2 workplace training must be a graduation requirement
- Residential address must be located within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Stamped letter from the University of Technology confirming that P1/P2 workplace training is required for graduation and indicating a minimum duration of 12 months
- Certified copy of Grade 12/Matric certificate
- Certified academic statement of results from the University of Technology
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document
- Certified copy of valid South African driver’s licence
- Certified proof of residence or domicile address
Applications that are incomplete or submitted without supporting documentation may not be considered.
Selection Process
Admission into the programme is dependent upon:
- Compliance with all minimum requirements
- Successful interview performance
- Successful completion of assessments
- Verification of academic and personal documentation
Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further screening and evaluation.
Programme Benefits
Participants selected for the Work Integrated Learning Programme can expect several developmental benefits, including:
- Valuable workplace exposure within the mining industry
- Practical application of academic knowledge
- Development of technical and professional skills
- Exposure to industry standards and operational practices
- Enhanced employability after graduation
- Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and mentors
The programme provides an excellent platform for students to gain meaningful experience while building a foundation for future career opportunities.
Why Consider Richards Bay Minerals?
Richards Bay Minerals is recognised as a major operation within South Africa’s mining and minerals sector. Through structured development programmes, participants are exposed to modern industrial environments, professional work practices, and opportunities for continuous learning.
Skills development remains an important component of sustainable economic growth and youth empowerment. Programmes such as the Artisan Learnership and Work Integrated Learning Programme contribute to building a pipeline of skilled professionals who can support the future needs of industry.
Candidates residing within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to gain practical skills, workplace experience, and nationally recognised qualifications.
Application Closing Date
Applications for the 2026 Work Integrated Learning Programme (P1/P2) close on: 29 May 2026
Early application submission is recommended to ensure all required documents are included and processed before the deadline.