If you have just finished your degree, the Ford Young Professional Programme – Manufacturing 2026 could be your first real step into the automotive world. The chance to work at one of South Africa’s leading car makers is now open, but the deadline is close.
What the opportunity is
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) runs a 12‑month training programme for fresh graduates. It gives you hands‑on experience in a real manufacturing plant. You will work on live projects, receive mentorship and learn how a global car company operates.
Who can apply (requirements / eligibility)
Minimum qualification
- Completed Bachelor’s degree
- Academic average of at least 65 %
Fields of study
- Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Computer or Mechatronics Engineering
- Logistics & Supply Chain
- Human Resources
- Law
- Business Management
Other criteria
- Age 18 – 35 years
- South African citizenship (or permanent residence)
- All studies must be finished before you apply
What you gain (benefits & skills)
The programme builds a solid foundation for a career in manufacturing or any related industry. You will develop:
- Understanding of lean manufacturing and Industry 4.0
- Experience with robotics, automation and quality systems
- Project‑management and problem‑solving abilities
- Data‑driven decision making
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Professional network inside a global automobile brand
These capabilities are valuable in automotive, mining, FMCG, food production and many other sectors.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the official Ford recruitment portal: Apply here.
- Create an account or log in.
- Complete the online application form. Provide your personal details, education history and the reference number 60237.
- Upload the required documents in a single PDF (if the system does not allow multiple files):
- Full CV
- South African ID copy
- Matric certificate
- University academic transcript (showing at least 65 %)
- Degree certificate
- Review everything carefully and submit before the closing date.
Closing date: 08 August 2026. Don’t wait until the last day – the portal can become very busy.
Tips to improve your chances
Tailor your CV
Do not use a generic graduate CV. Highlight relevant university projects, any design or lab work, leadership roles, and technical software you have used. Use keywords from the job description so the system can read them.
Show practical experience
If you have never held a full‑time job, list internships, vacation work, research projects, final‑year dissertations, engineering competitions or any hands‑on work you performed.
Explain why manufacturing excites you
Instead of writing “I need experience”, say why you love automotive production. Mention interests such as lean processes, automation, Industry 4.0 or solving production challenges.
Organise your documents
Make sure every file is clear and legible. Scan in colour if possible. Name each file professionally (e.g., John_Doe_CV.pdf) and merge them into one PDF when required.
Double‑check your transcript
The programme requires a minimum 65 % average. Verify that your transcript clearly shows this figure before you upload it.
Conclusion – next steps
This 12‑month programme can be a strong launchpad for a career in engineering, supply chain, HR, law or business within the automotive sector and beyond. If your degree matches one of the listed fields and you meet the age and academic criteria, start your application today.
Visit the official Ford portal, prepare the documents listed above and submit before 08 August 2026. Taking action now puts you ahead of the competition and brings you one step closer to a rewarding career on the shop floor of a world‑class manufacturer.
Disclaimer
This article is an independent opportunity explainer created by SETA SA using information published by Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa. SETA SA does not manage the recruitment process, influence hiring decisions or guarantee placement. Applicants should always refer to the official application portal for the most up‑to‑date programme information.
Editorial integrity
The sections titled Official Requirements, Official Behavioural Competencies and the programme details come directly from Ford’s advertisement. All guidance, such as CV tips and document preparation, is based on general best practices for South African graduate recruitment and is clearly marked as advice from SETA SA. Where Ford has not provided specific information (for example, detailed rotation schedules), we have not made assumptions.
