Implats is offering a 42-month Learner Instrument Technician programme in Springs for qualified graduates seeking practical process control experience.
A serious opportunity for graduates who want real technical experience-Learner Instrument Technician Programme
Breaking into the engineering and process control field is rarely about qualifications alone.
For many graduates, the real barrier is access to structured, hands-on training in an industrial environment.
That’s why the Learner Instrument Technician programme at Implats in Springs matters right now. Starting in July 2026, the 42-month learnership offers technically qualified graduates a pathway into instrumentation, process control, and industrial automation — fields that continue to underpin South Africa’s mining and refining sectors.
Applications close on 11 February 2026, leaving a narrow window for eligible candidates to prepare and submit complete applications.
Why this Learner Instrument Technician Programme stands out
Impala Platinum Refineries (Implats) is not a training provider on paper — it is an operating mining and refining business.
That distinction matters.
Learners are trained inside real plants, working with live systems where instrumentation accuracy, safety compliance, and production reliability are non-negotiable. This environment exposes candidates to the realities of engineering work long before they qualify.
The programme leads to an Instrument Mechanician Trade Test Certificate, conducted under the Mining Qualification Authority (MQA). This certification is widely recognised across mining, refining, and heavy industrial sectors.
While the commitment is long — 42 months — the depth of training reflects the complexity of modern process control systems.
What learners will actually do and learn from Learner Instrument Technician Programme
The Learner Instrument Technician programme is designed to move beyond theory.
Participants gain hands-on exposure to:
- Plant instrumentation and system control
- Process control systems and PLC programming
- SCADA systems and industrial instrumentation networks
- Reading and interpreting piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
- Diagnosing instrumentation faults that impact production output
In practice, this means learners assist with calibration, fault-finding, monitoring control loops, and supporting maintenance teams under supervision.
Over time, responsibilities increase as competence and confidence grow. This gradual progression is essential in environments where mistakes can have safety or production consequences.
For graduates who studied instrumentation but have never worked inside a plant, this exposure often bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and professional readiness.
Who should consider applying — and who shouldn’t
This opportunity is not entry-level for school leavers.
It is designed specifically for candidates who already have a technical foundation.
Minimum requirements include:Learner Instrument Technician Programme
- N6, S4, or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Light Current)
- Instrumentation and Process Control specialisation is essential
- Basic understanding of process control systems and P&IDs
- Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills
- Computer literacy
- Medical fitness to work at both PMR and BMR plants
Candidates without the required instrumentation focus may struggle to keep pace. The learning curve is steep, and the environment is technical by nature.
For those who do meet the criteria, however, the programme offers rare depth and continuity of training.
Application process and important realities to note when applying for Learner Instrument Technician Programme
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed CV
- Copy of South African ID
- Qualifications and official statement of results
How to Apply for Learner Instrument Technician Programme
APPLY HERE Learner Instrument Technician Programme
Incomplete applications are not considered.
Shortlisted candidates may undergo psychometric assessments, a standard practice in high-risk technical environments where attention to detail and cognitive reliability matter.
Implats has also made it clear that:
- The company is not obliged to make an appointment
- Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Act
- No recruitment fees or payments are ever required
Applicants who do not hear back within 30 days after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful — a common practice in large corporate recruitment processes.
The bigger picture: where this learnership can lead
Instrumentation and process control skills remain in demand across mining, energy, manufacturing, and water treatment industries.
While permanent employment is not guaranteed, completing a recognised trade test under the MQA significantly improves employability. Many qualified artisans and technicians trace their careers back to structured learnerships like this one.
That said, success depends heavily on commitment.
The programme is long, technically demanding, and requires consistent performance.
For graduates willing to invest the time, it can become a defining career foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions-Learner Instrument Technician Programme
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a fixed-term learnership leading to a trade test qualification.
When does the programme start?
The planned commencement date is July 2026.
Do I need prior workplace experience?
No, but strong theoretical grounding in instrumentation is essential.
Is the qualification recognised nationally?
Yes. The trade test is conducted under the Mining Qualification Authority (MQA).
Will Implats ask for payment during recruitment?
No. Any request for payment is fraudulent.
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