ArcelorMittal South Africa invites suitable applicants to apply for their Production Learnership Programme 2026 vacancies.
The closing date for applications is January 31, 2026.
What Is This Learnership?
ArcelorMittal South Africa is the biggest steel producer in the country and one of the biggest in Africa.
They’re opening a 36‑month training program for young South Africans who want to work in steel production and learn the skills that keep the world building.
You’ll learn to run big machines, read safety signs, and help produce steel that goes into cars, bridges, houses and more. The training is split into classroom lessons and real‑time work inside the plant.
Quick Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Job name | Production Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Location | Vanderbijlpark, South Africa |
| Industry | Manufacturing / Engineering / Technical / Production |
| Length | 36 months |
| Contract | Fixed‑term |
| Stipend | Market‑related, paid every month |
| Minimum Grades | Grade 12 – English 45 % + Maths 40 % (or Maths Literacy 50 %) |
| Preferred | South African youth under 35 |
| Future work | Not guaranteed, but many successful learners stay with the company |
| Application deadline | January 31, 2026 |
About the Company
ArcelorMittal South Africa can melt and shape 5 million tonnes of steel every year.
It’s part of a global group that supplies steel to more than 60 countries and uses cutting‑edge technology to keep its plants clean and safe.
Steel is one of the most recyclable materials in the world and is used for roads, homes, cars, and power plants. Because of this, skilled workers in the steel industry are always in demand.
Why This Program Is a Big Deal
- Hands‑on learning – You’ll work on real equipment and learn how steel is made from start to finish.
- Safety first – You’ll be taught to keep yourself and others safe in a high‑risk factory.
- Career path – After finishing, you can become a Process Operator, Quality Controller, or even move into engineering roles.
- Paid training – You’ll receive a market‑related stipend and benefits like insurance and protective gear.
What You’ll Learn
Technical Skills
- How steel is produced and processed.
- How to operate and maintain big machines.
- Reading gauges, meters, and control panels.
- Checking the quality of finished steel.
- Spotting and solving problems on the production line.
Operational Skills
- Following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Keeping accurate records of production.
- Working in teams to meet daily targets.
Safety Skills
- Using personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Identifying hazards and reporting incidents.
- Understanding the “Zero Harm” culture that ArcelorMittal promotes.
These skills are useful not only in steel plants but also in mining, construction, automotive factories, and energy plants.
Eligibility Checklist
- Grade 12 (Matric) – Pass the exam.
- English – Minimum 45 %.
- Maths – Minimum 40 % or Maths Literacy 50 %.
- Age – Preference for South African youth under 35.
- Medical exam – You’ll need to pass a workplace health check.
- Email – Keep checking for interview invitations (the company uses a video interview tool).
If you meet these, you’re ready to apply!
How to Apply
- Go to the official ArcelorMittal careers website (or a trusted job site).
- Upload a PDF of your CV.
- Attach copies of your ID and Grade 12 certificate, certified within the last 3 months.
- Provide your phone number and email.
- Watch for a video interview link in your email – set up a quiet, quiet space to record.
If you do not hear back by the end of February 2026, your application was probably not selected.
Why Apply Now?
- The program is competitive – spots fill fast.
- Candidates who show good communication, discipline, a safety mindset, a passion for tech, and the ability to work shifts stand out.
- The stipend and training are paid – there’s no cost to join.
- Even if a permanent job isn’t guaranteed, many learners are kept on by the company after the program.
After the Learnership
With 36 months of training behind you, you can move into roles such as:
- Process Operator
- Junior Production Technician
- Quality Control Inspector
- Machine Operator
- Plant Supervisor
- Safety Officer
- Engineering Trainee
You’ll be eligible for jobs in:
- Steel and metal plants
- Power stations
- Mining operations
- Automotive factories
- Logistics and heavy industry
South Africa needs skilled workers in these fields, so your chances of long‑term employment are high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a stipend?
Yes, it matches the market and covers training costs, PPE, and insurance.Can I apply without strong Maths?
No. You must have Maths 40 % or Maths Literacy 50 %.Do I need previous work experience?
No – this is for beginners.Can older applicants join?
You can, but the company prefers applicants under 35.Will I get a permanent job afterward?
Not guaranteed, but many high‑performers do stay on.Is this a paid program?
Yes – nobody will ask you to pay anything.Where will I train?
At the Vanderbijlpark plant.Is a medical test required?
Yes, an industrial health check is mandatory.Can I use a Level 4 NCV?
Grade 12 is the required standard; if your NCV matches, submit it.How long is the program?
36 months (3 years).
Important Reminders
- Apply only through the official ArcelorMittal channels.
- Never pay anyone who promises to secure the learnership for you.
- Keep your documents updated and ready to submit.
- Check your email regularly for the video interview link.
Ready to start a career in one of the world’s most important industries?
Apply before January 31, 2026 and take the first step toward a future in steel production.
