South Africa needs more skilled artisans in mining, and a new chance is opening right now. IVANPLATS has launched its Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 for the Platreef project near Mokopane, Limpopo.
What the opportunity is
IVANPLATS (a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines) is offering a learnership that can lead to a qualified artisan trade. The programme covers several technical fields, including Boilermaking, Diesel Mechanics, Fitter & Turner, Instrumentation, Mechanical Fitting and Millwrighting. It runs for up to three years, or until you obtain the trade qualification.
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Completed Grade 12 with at least 60 % in Mathematics and 60 % in Physical Science.
- Hold an N2 Engineering Studies qualification.
- Minimum 2 years of experience as an Artisan Assistant. Detail the tasks you performed – maintenance, repairs, fitting, etc.
- Preference will be given to HDSA applicants from communities near the Platreef mine and to women.
What you gain
Successful candidates will receive:
- Structured, on‑the‑job training in a high‑tech underground mine.
- Certification in the chosen artisan trade.
- Experience with modern mining equipment and safety procedures.
- Potential pathways to longer‑term employment in mining, engineering or industrial maintenance.
Keep in mind that completing the learnership does not automatically guarantee a permanent job.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Gather the required documents:
- Updated CV (show education and Artisan Assistant experience clearly).
- Certified copies of your Grade 12 results, N2 certificate, and any other qualifications.
- South African ID copy.
- Letter from the Tribal Authority/Induna (required for applicants from surrounding communities).
- Prepare your CV so the recruiter can quickly verify:
- Education: Grade 12, Mathematics mark, Physical Science mark, N2 Engineering Studies.
- Experience: Employer, trade/department, dates, main duties.
- Visit the official application page and click the apply button.
- Fill in the online form, upload the documents, and submit before the deadline.
- After submitting, keep your phone and email active. If you do not hear back within 14 days after 15 September 2026, assume the application was not successful.
Official application link: Apply for the IVANPLATS Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 intake here.
Tips to improve your chances
- Check that your Mathematics and Physical Science marks are at least 60 % before you apply.
- Make sure your N2 certificate is certified and clearly legible.
- Detail two years of Artisan Assistant work with specific duties – don’t just write “Artisan Assistant”.
- Include the Tribal Authority/Induna letter early; missing it will disqualify your application.
- Proofread your CV for typos and ensure dates are easy to read.
Important reminders
- The learnership may require you to work underground, on the surface, and across different mine sites.
- You must pass a medical fitness examination before any placement.
- A capability assessment may be required after the initial application.
Conclusion and next steps
The IVANPLATS Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 offers a realistic path for South Africans who have solid Grade 12 results, an N2 Engineering Studies qualification, and practical Artisan Assistant experience. With training in critical mining trades, you can build a career in a sector that values technical skill.
Applications opened on 1 September 2026 and close on 15 September 2026 at 23:59. Prepare your documents, follow the steps above, and submit your application early. Good luck!
