Join SAFRIPOL’s 2026 Experiential Learnership Program – Kickstart Your Engineering Career
Safripol is looking for suitable young people to apply for their SafRIPOL Experiential Learnership – Electrical Engineering opportunities. The closing date for applications is 17 February 2026.
Ever finish a BEng or an advanced diploma in electrical engineering and then feel a bit lost when it comes to real job experience? That’s where this programme steps in. It’s not just another internship; it’s a hands‑on, full‑time learning adventure inside a big industrial plant in Durban’s Jacobs area. If you want to see how a real power plant runs, work with seasoned engineers, and earn a stipend while you learn, keep reading.
What the Learnership Looks Like
- Work on maintenance teams for a 12‑month period.
- Help plan and carry out electrical repairs and upgrades.
- Get into the trenches of plant safety and compliance.
- Shadow senior engineers on live projects and simulations.
- Keep a log of every task you complete – that’s your future résumé.
This isn’t a classroom gig; you’ll be in the heart of the production line, learning by doing. Think of it as a bridge from university to a solid engineering career.
Who Should Apply?
- Recent Electrical Engineering graduates (BEng, BSc, or Advanced Diploma).
- Anyone who’s had a taste of maintenance work or a manufacturing internship.
- People who want a plant‑based career rather than an office desk.
- Those eager to build a portfolio of real‑world projects.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Academic: Matric (Grade 12) plus a recognised electrical engineering qualification.
- Experience: Not mandatory, but having done a maintenance or lab project is a plus.
- Skills:
- Good communication and teamwork.
- Comfortable working under pressure.
- Problem‑solving mindset.
- Willingness to learn on the job.
What You’ll Get
- Hands‑on training: Diagnose faults, plan maintenance, monitor equipment reliability.
- Industry knowledge: Understand industrial safety protocols and plant operations.
- Soft skills: Professional communication, teamwork, time management, and technical reporting.
- Career boost: A strong foundation for roles like Junior Electrical Engineer, Maintenance Engineer, Reliability Engineer, or Plant Engineer.
How to Apply
- Gather your documents:
- Updated CV (focus on projects and labs).
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Academic transcripts.
- Degree certificate or completion letter.
- Any proof of practical training or plant exposure (lab certificates, internship letters).
- Go to the Safripol careers portal and locate reference SAF260209-1.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload your documents, double‑check everything for accuracy.
- Submit before the clock strikes midnight on 17 Feb 2026.
Apply right here before it closes.
Pay, Stipend & Location Perks
- Stipend is paid monthly – enough to cover living expenses in Durban.
- Housing assistance may be available; confirm during the interview.
- You’ll be based in Jacobs, KwaZulu-Natal – a great mix of city life and industrial learning.
- Travel costs for commuting from Joburg or other areas may be reimbursed if you’re a non‑resident.
Tips to Stand Out
- Highlight any hands‑on labs or simulations in your CV.
- Show how you solved a real problem during a project.
- Include a short cover letter that explains why you want to work in a plant and how you can contribute.
- Apply early – the first 50 applicants get a priority review.
- Keep your documents neat, check for spelling mistakes, and make sure your ID copy is clear.
After the Learnership
When the 12‑month programme ends, you’ll have a portfolio of real‑world experience that most employers love. Possible next steps:
- Full‑time Electrical Engineer at Safripol or a similar industrial firm.
- Specialisation in plant reliability, automation, or technical support.
- Progression into supervisory or management roles after a few years.
Quick FAQ
Is this a permanent job? No – it’s a temporary learnership, but many finishers land permanent roles.
Do I need previous work experience? No, but it helps if you’ve been in a maintenance or manufacturing setting.
Will I have a mentor? Yes, you’ll work under experienced engineers and technicians.
Can this lead to a full‑time job? Absolutely, many participants move into permanent positions after proving themselves.
Do I have to live in Durban? No, anyone in South Africa can apply, but the placement is in Durban, Jacobs.
Why are experiential learnerships valuable? They give you real work experience that employers value more than just a degree.
Remember
- Check the official Safripol careers portal for the latest details.
- Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
- Keep your application complete and on time – incomplete ones won’t get considered.
Good luck, and if you’re ready to turn theory into practice, this could be the kick‑start you need. SafRIPOL Experiential Learnership is waiting for you!
