Imerys Refractory Minerals has launched an Electrical Learnership offering candidates aged 18 to 35 a structured 36-month programme leading to a national qualification in the Electrical Engineering and Fitter fields. Training combines theory at an MQA-accredited college with practical experience at the company’s mine and plant.
For thousands of young South Africans, the dream of becoming a qualified artisan dies at the same hurdle: nobody will train you. This programme removes that hurdle completely — formal college theory, real mine and plant experience, and a recognised qualification at the end of it.
What Makes This Learnership Different?
Imerys is the world leader in mineral-based specialties for industry, and this programme is built around proper, accredited artisan development rather than informal job shadowing.
Successful candidates will study through Colliery Training College, an MQA-accredited institution, where they’ll complete their theoretical training. They’ll then return to the mine and plant for hands-on practical training — the combination that produces fully qualified artisans.
The full journey runs over 36 months, giving you a genuine trade qualification, not a short course certificate.
Who Qualifies for the Programme?
This opportunity targets community youth aged 18 to 35. The academic entry routes are flexible, and you only need to meet one of these:
- Grade 12 with at least 40% in English, Mathematics and Physical Science
- N2 certificate with 4 subjects relevant to the trade — such as Engineering Science, Engineering Drawings, and Fitting & Machining Theory
- National Certificate (Vocational) Level 3 with at least 40% in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) plus the relevant trade subjects, such as Electrical Engineering Theory
On top of the academic requirements, candidates must:
- Be medically fit (a Mine Health and Safety Act requirement)
- Successfully complete the Mine Health and Safety Induction
- Be self-motivated, eager to learn, with good written and verbal communication
That multiple-entry-route structure matters. Whether you came through a mainstream high school, a TVET N-course, or the NCV route, there’s a door open for you here.
What Will Learners Be Expected to Do?
Day-to-day responsibilities during the practical phases include:
- Adhering to all company Health and Safety policies and procedures
- Maintaining good housekeeping in the work environment
- Following task-related SOPs and checklists at all times
- Using proper documentation for every task
- Assisting the line manager with major and minor tasks
- Compiling daily, weekly and monthly reports as required
These habits — documentation, safety discipline, structured reporting — are exactly what mining and industrial employers look for when hiring qualified artisans later.
Why Should You Take This Seriously?
Electrical artisans remain among the most in-demand trades in South Africa’s mining, manufacturing and energy sectors. A 36-month accredited programme that covers both college theory and underground-to-plant practical exposure puts you on a direct path to trade test readiness.
And because Imerys operates globally, the qualification and experience you earn here carry weight far beyond a single employer.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: This advert lists three different entry routes, and many applicants disqualify themselves by assuming they need all of them. You only need ONE — Grade 12, N2, or NCV Level 3. Before applying, get a certified copy of your statement of results and check your Maths and Science percentages line by line. If you’re at 40% or above on the right subjects, you’re in the running. Also note the medical fitness requirement — if you make the shortlist, you’ll go through a mine medical, so be upfront about your health history from the start.
How Do You Get Your Application In?
This learnership was published very recently, and no closing date has been advertised — which means it could close as soon as enough quality applications come in. With electrical learnerships, that happens fast.
Have your CV, certified ID copy and certified academic results ready before you begin.
Applications must be submitted through the official online application portal.
This is an EE/AA position, in line with the company’s employment equity commitments.
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Final Thoughts
A fully structured, MQA-accredited 36-month learnership with both college theory and real plant experience is the kind of opportunity that changes a career trajectory permanently. If you’re between 18 and 35 and hold a Grade 12, N2 or NCV Level 3 with the right subjects, don’t let this one pass you by.
Get your documents certified and submit your application as soon as possible — recently published learnerships like this rarely stay open long.
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