Learnerships & Apprenticeships
Apply Today: Exxaro 2026 Graduate Internship Program Opens – Launch Your Career
Exxaro Resources is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Exxaro Graduate Internship Programme 2026 opportunities. The closing date for applications is 12 March 2026.
If you’re a fresh graduate, a student about to finish, or someone who’s just turned 25 and wants a solid first job, this could be your ticket into South Africa’s mining and industrial world. It’s not a quick‑hit gig – you’ll spend 24 months on a paid, structured programme that turns classroom knowledge into real on‑the‑ground skill, and you’ll earn a monthly stipend while you learn.
What the internship looks like day‑to‑day
- You’ll be posted at the Belfast Coal mine in Mpumalanga, where everything from equipment maintenance to supply chain flow happens.
- Every week you’ll rotate through different teams – from procurement to engineering to HR – depending on the stream you choose.
- You’ll work on real projects: help optimise logistics, troubleshoot electrical faults, or assist in mine safety audits.
- The programme includes training sessions, mentorship, and regular performance reviews to keep you growing.
Why it’s great for beginners and graduates
- Hands‑on experience in a high‑value sector – something many other internships can’t match.
- You’ll build a professional network across engineering, operations, and people teams.
- A 24‑month track gives you deep knowledge of the mining cycle and a chance to earn a professional registration in engineering if that’s your path.
- Even if the internship doesn’t lead to a full‑time job at Exxaro, the résumé you build is gold for other companies in logistics, engineering, or HR.
Who can apply?
- South African citizen, under 35 years old.
- Unemployed graduate holding a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in:
- Supply Chain Management or related field
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Human Resource Management or related discipline
- Must be able to pass interviews, psychometric tests, and a medical fitness assessment.
- Preference for residents of Emakhazeni Municipality, but applicants from anywhere in South Africa can apply.
- A valid driver’s licence and a disability‑friendly mindset are a plus.
What you’ll get
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract | 24‑month paid internship |
| Stipend | Monthly, paid throughout the programme |
| Training | Structured learning modules and on‑the‑job training |
| Accommodation | Not provided – you’ll need to arrange housing |
| Post‑internship | No automatic job offer, but a strong stepping‑stone for many careers |
Fields available for 2026 Intake
- Supply Chain Management – inventory systems, vendor coordination, optimisation projects.
- Electrical Engineering – maintenance planning, equipment diagnostics, safety compliance.
- Mechanical Engineering – heavy‑machinery inspections, reliability systems, workshop ops.
- Mining Engineering (2 spots) – production planning, mine safety, resource extraction.
- Human Resource Management – People & Performance – recruitment, employee relations, training coordination.
Step‑by‑step how to apply
- Prepare your documents
- Updated CV highlighting projects and teamwork.
- Proof of qualification (degree or diploma certificate).
- Passport‑style ID photo (if required).
- Visit the Exxaro career portal – use the official link below.
- Fill out the online application – answer all questions honestly.
- Complete the psychometric assessment – practice online tests if you can.
- Prepare for the interview – research Exxaro’s values, think about how you’ll talk safety and teamwork.
- Submit before 12 March 2026 – late applications won’t be considered.
Apply right here before it closes
Tips to make your application stand out
- Show a clear link between your studies and the internship role.
- Highlight any hands‑on projects, whether in university labs or community work.
- Mention your safety mindset – mining is all about being careful.
- If you’re from Emakhazeni, be sure to state that in your cover note.
- Practice a short “about me” story you can use in interviews.
What can you do after the internship?
- Graduate Engineer roles (Electrical, Mechanical).
- Junior Mining Engineer or Production Engineer positions.
- Maintenance Engineer jobs in other sectors.
- Supply Chain Analyst or HR Officer roles.
- Opportunities with mining contractors or government energy projects.
- Many interns move on to professional registration with engineering councils.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the stipend paid? – Yes, you’ll get a monthly stipend for the full 24 months.
- Do I need a room? – Accommodation is not provided, so you must arrange your own housing.
- Can I come from outside Mpumalanga? – Absolutely, but Exxaro prefers candidates from Emakhazeni Municipality.
- Will the internship guarantee a job? – No, finishing the programme does not automatically secure a permanent role.
- Are people with disabilities welcomed? – Yes, Exxaro encourages applications from candidates living with disabilities.
- What tests will I take? – Interviews, psychometric testing, and a medical fitness assessment are required.
Quick checklist before you hit “submit”
- ✔️ CV updated
- ✔️ Degree/Diploma certificates ready
- ✔️ Psychometric practice completed
- ✔️ Driver’s licence copy (if you have one)
- ✔️ Accommodation plan in place
- ✔️ Application submitted before 12 March 2026
Exxaro Resources offers this programme as a chance to build real skills in a leading industry. If you’re ready to learn, adapt, and thrive, this could be the start you’re looking for.
Final word
Apply with confidence – but remember, the competition is high, and every step of the selection process matters. Prepare early, stay honest, and let your enthusiasm shine through. Good luck!
