Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships offer unemployed youth in Mpumalanga a chance to gain engineering skills. Closing date: 16 February 2026.
For many unemployed young people in Mpumalanga, opportunities to enter the engineering field feel increasingly out of reach. Formal jobs are scarce, experience requirements are high, and training often costs more than families can afford. That’s why Exxaro Leeuwpan Coal’s newly announced Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships matter — especially now, while applications are still open.
Exxaro is offering three engineering learnership positions at its Leeuwpan Coal operation in Victor Khanye Local Municipality (VKLM). These opportunities are specifically aimed at unemployed South African youth who want structured training, real workplace exposure, and a recognised pathway into engineering trades.
With the closing date set for 16 February 2026, time is limited for eligible candidates to prepare and apply.
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Why these Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships matter right now
Learnerships are often discussed, but not always understood. In practice, they are one of the few realistic entry points into technical careers for young people without university degrees.
At a time when youth unemployment remains stubbornly high, programmes like this offer more than just training. They offer access — access to equipment, mentors, safety systems, and day-to-day industrial environments that most young people never experience otherwise.
Exxaro’s Leeuwpan learnerships combine classroom-based learning with hands-on work inside an active mining operation. For candidates living in VKLM or nearby areas, this also removes a common barrier: relocation costs.
While three positions may sound small, competition for engineering learnerships is intense. Those selected typically gain skills that remain relevant long after the programme ends.
What the Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships actually involves
The Exxaro Engineering Learnership Programme is built around unit-standard-based learning, aligned with South Africa’s skills development framework. This means learners are not just “assisting” — they are working toward recognised competencies.
Participants are expected to balance theory and practice. Some days will involve structured learning modules; others will require applying those lessons on site under supervision. Safety, discipline, and compliance are central, reflecting the realities of engineering work in mining environments.
Importantly, this is not a casual programme. Learners must meet performance expectations, follow company rules, and pass medical fitness assessments. The process includes interviews, screening, and psychometric testing — steps that can feel intimidating, but also reflect how the engineering industry operates.
The engineering disciplines available-Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
Exxaro Leeuwpan Coal has confirmed three engineering learnership disciplines for the 2026 intake:
- Electrical
- Plater / Welder (Boilermaker)
- Fitting and Machinery
These fields are foundational to mining and heavy industry. Electrical learnerships focus on systems, safety, and maintenance. Boilermaking involves fabrication, welding, and structural work. Fitting and machinery covers mechanical systems, repairs, and precision assembly.
While each discipline is different, they share a common demand: attention to detail, physical readiness, and a willingness to learn from the ground up.
Who qualifies and who may struggle to Apply for Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
To be considered, applicants must meet minimum academic requirements. This includes either a Grade 12 / Standard 10 with at least 40% in English and Mathematics, or an N2 qualification with all four subjects completed, including trade theory.
Residence also matters. Exxaro has stated that applicants must come from Victor Khanye Local Municipality or within a 50 km radius of the operation. This is a common requirement in mining learnerships, aimed at supporting local communities.
A valid driver’s licence is listed as an advantage, not a requirement — which is important, as many young people are still working toward one.
Candidates who struggle most are often those who apply late, submit incomplete documents, or underestimate the seriousness of the selection process. These learnerships are competitive, and preparation matters.
How to apply and what to keep in mind when Applying for Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
Applications for the Exxaro Leeuwpan Coal Engineering Learnerships 2026 must be submitted online before 16 February 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Applicants should ensure that all documents are clear, accurate, and uploaded correctly. Errors here can quietly end an application before it’s even reviewed.
It’s also worth remembering that a learnership is not a guaranteed job. Outcomes depend on performance, business needs, and further opportunities. Still, for many past learners across South Africa, a completed engineering learnership has opened doors that were previously closed.
How to Apply for Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
Ensure that all required information and documents are submitted before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships
Is this learnership paid?
Learnerships usually include a stipend, but the exact amount is determined by the employer and programme structure.
Can I apply if I live outside Mpumalanga?
Only applicants from VKLM or within a 50 km radius of the operation are eligible.
Do I need experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required, but meeting the academic criteria is essential.
What happens after the Exxaro’s 2026 Engineering Learnerships ends?
Completion does not guarantee employment, but it significantly improves employability in engineering trades.
Can I apply for more than one discipline?
This depends on the application system. Applicants should carefully follow the instructions provided during the online application process.
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