Learnership 18.2 Rigger Ropesman 2026 opens at Sibanye-Stillwater Rustenburg. See requirements, responsibilities, and who should apply.
Opportunities to enter the mining industry with structured training don’t come around often.
This Learnership 18.2 Rigger Ropesman at Sibanye-Stillwater in Rustenburg is one of those chances — especially for young South Africans with technical subjects who want real underground exposure.
With the closing date set for 03 February 2026, this learnership matters now. Mining operations continue to face skills shortages, and companies are increasingly investing in formal development pipelines rather than hiring only experienced artisans.
This opportunity is for candidates who are serious about safety, discipline, and learning in a demanding engineering environment.
What this Learnership 18.2 Rigger Ropesman 2026 actually involves
A Rigger Ropesman plays a critical role in mining operations. This is not a desk job. It involves working with lifting equipment, shaft systems, and heavy loads where precision and safety are non-negotiable.
This temporary learnership is based within Sibanye-Stillwater’s Platinum operations in Rustenburg and falls under the Learners function. Only one position is available, which suggests a competitive selection process.
Shortlisted candidates should expect:
- Pre-screening and psychometric assessments
- A formal panel interview
- Medical fitness and security clearance checks
This is structured learning tied directly to operational work — not classroom-only training.
Who qualifies — and who should think carefully before applying Learnership 18.2 Rigger Ropesman 2026
This learnership is clearly designed for candidates with engineering-related education. You don’t need years of experience, but you do need the right foundation.
You qualify if you have one of the following:
- N2 subjects:
Mathematics, Engineering Science, Engineering Drawings, and Rigger Trade Theory - NCV Engineering & Related Design, with at least 40% in all subjects
- Grade 12, including Mathematics, Physical Science, and Engineering Graphics/Drawings, all at 40% or higher
You must also be:
- Medically fit for the mining environment
- Clear on security screening
- In possession of a valid driver’s licence (where applicable)
While prior engineering or mining exposure is not mandatory, it is listed as an advantage. Candidates unfamiliar with physically demanding, rule-driven environments should be honest with themselves before applying.
Safety, discipline, and accountability come first
One thing this learnership makes clear: health and safety are central, not optional.
Learners are expected to:
- Follow all legal and site-specific safety standards
- Wear prescribed PPE at all times
- Participate in on-the-job risk assessments
- Attend SHE meetings when required
- Identify and report hazardous situations immediately
Mining environments don’t allow shortcuts. This programme expects learners to develop professional habits early — from reporting inconsistencies to communicating risks clearly.
That focus on safety is not just about compliance. It’s about survival, trust, and operational excellence underground.
Learning beyond tools: communication, teamwork, and values
This is not only a technical development programme. Sibanye-Stillwater places heavy emphasis on people skills and organisational culture, even at learner level.
Participants are expected to:
- Compile progress and development reports
- Communicate challenges and ideas constructively
- Support team members and maintain two-way communication
- Build working relationships with multiple stakeholders
There’s also a strong focus on values-based culture and ESG principles, aligning with international responsible mining standards such as:
- World Gold Council Responsible Gold Mining Principles
- Together for Sustainability (eTfS) initiatives
For learners, this means understanding that modern mining is not just about production — it’s about responsibility, sustainability, and long-term impact.
What makes this opportunity different from many learnerships
Many learnerships promise exposure but deliver limited responsibility. This one is different in tone.
The responsibilities listed show that learners are expected to:
- Understand programme objectives clearly
- Complete all modules within set timeframes
- Take ownership of learning progress
- Escalate problems rather than hide them
That level of accountability can be challenging — but it’s also what makes candidates employable after completion.
There is no guarantee of permanent employment, and that uncertainty should be acknowledged. However, completing a recognised Rigger Ropesman learnership in a major mining operation significantly strengthens a technical CV.
How to approach your application realistically
Because only one position is available, strong applications usually show:
- Clear alignment between subjects studied and the trade
- Honest motivation (not generic “I love mining” statements)
- Understanding of safety-critical environments
- APPLY HERE
Avoid copying templates. Focus on why this specific trade fits your background and temperament.
If you’re shortlisted and don’t hear back within 14 days, Sibanye-Stillwater advises applicants to consider the application unsuccessful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this learnership permanent employment?
No. It is a temporary learnership with structured training.
Do I need mining experience to apply?
No, but engineering or technical exposure is an advantage
Where is the learnership based?
At Sibanye-Stillwater Platinum operations in Rustenburg.
What is the closing date?
03 February 2026.
How many positions are available?
Only one position is listed.
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