United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 Mining Learnerships (18.2) and Mineral Processing Learnerships (18.2) Vacancies. The closing date for applications is 16 December 2025.
Quick Snapshot
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Mining Learnership (18.2) 2026 & Mineral Processing Learnership (18.2) 2026 |
| Where | John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality / Joe Morolong Local Municipality |
| How many spots | 10 for Mining, 3 for Mineral Processing |
| Who can apply | Local residents of JTG District or Joe Morolong |
| How to apply | Email your documents to Recruitment@umk.co.za |
| Deadline | 16 December 2025 |
About UMK – United Manganese of Kalahari
UMK is one of South Africa’s biggest manganese producers. The company is known for:
- Mining that cares about people and the planet
- Helping local communities grow
- Using cleaner ways to dig and extract minerals
- Giving young people real jobs and training
UMK works in open‑pit mines and runs learnership programs that let you learn mining skills while earning a stipend.
2026 Mining Learnership (18.2)
What it offers
- Hands‑on work in a real mine
- Training in blasting, drilling, digging, and more
- Safety lessons that keep you and your team safe
- A chance to move into full‑time mining jobs after finishing
Who can join?
- Finished high school (Grade 12) with maths and science
- Lives in the JTG or Joe Morolong area
- Good at talking and working with people
- Able to follow rules and stay disciplined
- Fit for the physical demands of a mine
- Ready to learn and grow
Apply – Send a CV, a copy of your ID, and copies of your certificates to Recruitment@umk.co.za. Be sure to mention “Mining Learnership 18.2” in the subject line.
2026 Mineral Processing Learnership (18.2)
What it teaches
- Receiving and checking ore
- Crushing and separating ore into usable pieces
- Sorting and cleaning the material for export
These skills are officially recognised by SETA and can open jobs in processing plants all over South Africa.
Who can join?
- Finished Grade 10 or has an ABET Level 4 qualification
- Lives in the JTG or Joe Morolong area
- Can read and write clearly
- Has a positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Healthy enough to work in a plant setting
Apply – Email your CV, ID copy, and certificates to Recruitment@umk.co.za with “Mineral Processing Learnership 18.2” in the subject line.
Why These Learnerships Are Important
- Mining is one of the biggest job sectors in South Africa.
- Learnerships give you a recognised qualification.
- You get real industry experience that employers love.
- The training helps lift your local community by turning talent into jobs.
- After finishing, you can step into a career that pays well and has room to grow.
If you live in the JTG District, this opportunity is right next door. Use it to build a stable future.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply early – The competition can be tough.
- Check your documents – Make sure everything is certified and up to date.
- Write a clear subject line – Use the job name and reference number.
- Show confidence – Believe in your potential and communicate it.
A strong application could be the key to a lifetime of good jobs.
Career Paths After Completing the Learnerships
| Mining Learnership Graduates May Become | Mineral Processing Learnership Graduates May Become |
|---|---|
| General Miner | Plant Attendant |
| Blasting Assistant | Crushing Plant Operator |
| Drilling Operator | Screening & Sorting Technician |
| Dump Truck Operator | Control Room Operator |
| Mine Supervisor | Metallurgical Assistant |
| Safety Officer | Processing Supervisor |
| Mining Technician | (and more with further study) |
With experience and extra training, you could move up to roles like Mine Overseer, Metallurgist, or Plant Manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Do I need past mining experience? | No, these programs start from scratch. |
| 2 | Do I have to live in the JTG District? | Yes, only local residents can apply. |
| 3 | Can I apply for both learnerships? | Pick the one that matches your qualifications. |
| 4 | Do I need a medical test? | Yes, the job requires medical fitness. |
| 5 | Will I get a job after the learnership? | Not guaranteed, but many finishers are hired. |
| 6 | Are the programmes accredited? | Yes, especially the Mineral Processing modules. |
| 7 | What if I miss the deadline? | Applications after the deadline will not be accepted. |
| 8 | Can I hand‑deliver my application? | Applications must be sent by email only. |
| 9 | How long does the learnership last? | Typically around 12 months, though not specified. |
| 10 | Is a stipend mentioned? | The stipend details were not listed, but most mining learnerships pay a competitive amount. |
Closing date: 16 December 2025
Final Note
This post is not a recruitment agency. All details come from official UMK announcements. Always double‑check the latest information on the company’s website before sending in your application.
