Transnet is open for Artisan in Training Apprenticeship applications for 2026/2027, closing on 20 October 2026. This is one of the better ways in South Africa to turn a technical qualification into a recognised trade, and the window is short. This guide covers what you need to know before you apply.
Quick Facts
- Programme: Artisan in Training Apprenticeship 2026/2027
- Employer: Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight rail, ports and pipelines company
- Closing date: 20 October 2026
- Duration: 24 months
- Location: Various locations across South Africa
- Stipend: Not stated in the adverts I found
Apply Here
Transnet takes applications through its online Talent Portal. Choose the trade that matches your qualification:
- Boilermaker: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5979?c=transnettalentportal
- Electrician: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5978?c=transnettalentportal
- Welder: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5980?c=transnettalentportal
- Fitter & Turner: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5977?c=transnettalentportal
- Millwright: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/5976?c=transnettalentportal
- Mechanical Fitter and all other vacancies: https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home?c=transnettalentportal
The listing I used doesn’t give a separate, confirmed link for Mechanical Fitter. It says the Millwright link was used for that trade and advises confirming the correct vacancy on the careers portal. Use the main portal link above and search for it yourself.
What Is the Artisan in Training Programme?
This is a work-based training programme. You learn on the job next to qualified artisans and build the skills needed for a trade. It combines hands-on training, mentorship and industry exposure. A qualified artisan is a skilled worker who has passed a trade test. Industries like rail, ports and heavy engineering depend on these people, and the skills are in constant demand.
Over the 24 months you can expect to learn how to:
- Prepare work sites, tools, equipment and materials
- Use hand tools, power tools and measuring instruments
- Install, assemble, fit and connect equipment
- Test, inspect and commission installations
- Carry out maintenance and repairs
- Follow safety and technical procedures
Trades on Offer
- Boilermaker
- Electrician
- Welder
- Fitter & Turner
- Millwright
- Mechanical Fitter
Pick the trade that matches the subjects you studied. An applicant with electrical trade theory should go for Electrician, for example, not Welder.
Minimum Requirements
You need to meet one of these qualification routes:
- N2 to N6 certificate with relevant trade theory, engineering science, mathematics or related subjects
- NCV Level 4 with relevant trade theory, mathematics and vocational subjects
- Technical Grade 12 with Mathematics, Physical Science and relevant trade theory
Beyond the qualification, you must have passed Mathematics with at least 50%, be between 18 and 30 years old, and be a South African citizen. You also must not already hold a Trade Certificate or Red Seal. This programme is for people who haven’t qualified in the trade yet.
One caution on age. The apprenticeship adverts say 18 to 30. Transnet’s separate Work Integrated Technical Learner programmes, for people who have already passed a trade test, list an age range of 18 to 35. Don’t mix the two up. Read the age limit on the vacancy you are applying for. ijob
Documents to Prepare
Gather these before you open the portal, because a rushed application is where mistakes happen:
- An updated CV
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Your N2–N6, NCV Level 4 or Technical Grade 12 certificate
- Your full academic record showing subjects and marks
- Any other qualification documents relevant to the trade
Scan everything clearly, keep file sizes reasonable, and name the files sensibly (for example, “Name_Surname_ID.pdf”).
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
- Choose your trade. Match it to your subjects and interests.
- Open the link for that trade from the list above.
- Create a profile on the Transnet Talent Portal, or log in if you already have one.
- Complete the screening questions. Answer honestly, since these are used to filter applicants.
- Upload your documents. Check that each file opens and is readable.
- Review and submit before the closing date.
- Save your confirmation and keep an eye on your email, including spam, for updates.
Don’t wait until 20 October. Portals slow down or crash near deadlines, and a late application is usually not considered. Applying early also leaves time to fix a problem.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Match your trade to your marks. Strong maths and trade theory results help most.
- Keep your CV short and clear. One or two pages is plenty, with contact details, education and any practical experience.
- Mention practical exposure. Workshop projects, practical subjects, vacation work or helping a relative with repairs all count.
- Use a professional email address that you check daily.
- Apply for more than one trade if you qualify. Only do this if your subjects genuinely fit each one.
- Prepare for assessments. Revise maths, engineering science and trade theory in case you are tested.
Beware of Scams
Fake job offers spread quickly during application season. Transnet doesn’t charge for applications, training or placement. Warning signs include requests for money for “registration”, uniforms, medicals or certificates. Legitimate Transnet email addresses end in @transnet.net. If someone asks for payment or contacts you from a free email account, treat it as a scam.
Other Transnet Opportunities Closing Soon
If you have already passed a trade test, there are separate 24-month Work Integrated Technical Learner programmes. Some close on 13 and 14 October 2026, covering Carpentry, Instrumentation and Plumbing. Others in Diesel Mechanic and Plumbing close between 15 and 21 October. Check each advert, because the requirements differ from the apprenticeships.
Final Thoughts
If you meet the requirements, this is worth the effort. A trade qualification opens doors at Transnet and across industries that always need skilled artisans. Gather your documents, choose your trade, apply early, and double-check everything on the official portal before you submit.
Note: Details come from published adverts. The stipend isn’t stated, so confirm it, the exact requirements and your trade’s vacancy on the official Transnet portal before applying.
I can also turn this into a downloadable file, or write a shorter version for social media.
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