Apply for the Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership 2026 intake in Middelburg. Open to South African youth with Matric, N3 or NCV Level 4.
Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership 2026 Intake in Middelburg
The Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership 2026 intake presents an excellent opportunity for South African youth who are eager to build a practical, in-demand career within the manufacturing and engineering sector. Based in Middelburg, this apprenticeship programme is designed to equip learners with essential technical skills while providing valuable workplace experience at one of South Africa’s leading stainless steel producers.
As industries continue to demand skilled artisans and plant maintenance professionals, apprenticeship learnerships like this one play a vital role in shaping a work-ready workforce. Columbus Stainless remains committed to developing young talent and creating sustainable career pathways through structured training programmes.
About the 2026 Apprenticeship Programme
The Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership is a contract-based training programme aimed at students and entry-level candidates who meet the required academic criteria. The 2026 intake focuses on plant maintenance training, combining classroom-based learning with hands-on exposure in an industrial environment.
Learners selected for this programme will work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining technical and workplace skills aligned with industry standards.
Programme Overview:
- Programme Name: Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership
- Reference Number: AppyExt
- Intake Year: 2026
- Location: Middelburg, Mpumalanga
- Work Level: Student / Graduate
- Contract Type: Fixed-term contract
- Duration: 3 years or more
- Salary/Stipend: Market-related
- Employment Equity: Not an EE position
- Closing Date: 25 December 2025
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants do not need prior work experience to be considered. However, they must meet the academic and general eligibility requirements outlined below.
Educational Requirements:
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Matric or N3 qualification with Mathematics and Physical Science, each passed with a minimum of 40%, or
- NCV Level 4 qualification with 7 subjects, including Mathematics and Science, each with at least 40%
Additional Criteria:
- Interest in plant and equipment maintenance
- Practical and logical problem-solving ability
- Must be medically fit
- South African citizen
- Willing to work shifts and overtime
- Preference will be given to candidates residing in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality
What Learners Can Expect
The Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership 2026 is structured to prepare participants for real workplace demands. Throughout the programme, learners will develop both technical competencies and professional workplace behaviour.
Key benefits include:
- Hands-on training in an industrial manufacturing environment
- Structured mentorship from qualified professionals
- Market-related financial support during the apprenticeship period
- Industry-relevant skills that enhance employability
- Exposure to modern plant maintenance practices
Completing this apprenticeship can open doors to future opportunities within Columbus Stainless or across the broader engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Documents Required for Application
To ensure your application is considered, all required documents must be submitted. Applications missing any of the listed documents will be regarded as incomplete.
Applicants must include:
- Certified copies of academic qualifications
- Certified proof of residence from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality
- An updated CV clearly displaying a valid cell phone number for SMS communication
Accuracy and completeness are critical, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

How to Apply for the 2026 Intake
Interested candidates must apply through the official Columbus Stainless recruitment channels. Follow the steps below carefully:
- Prepare an updated CV with accurate personal and contact details
- Attach certified copies of your qualifications
- Attach certified proof of residence
- Quote the reference number AppyExt in your application
- Submit your application before the closing date
Application Closing Date: 25 December 2025
If you do not receive feedback within six weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Important Information for Applicants
Columbus Stainless has confirmed that it does not charge any application or training fees. Any person requesting payment on behalf of the company is committing fraud.
By applying, candidates give consent for Columbus Stainless to process personal information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). All personal information will be handled confidentially and used strictly for recruitment and training purposes.
Why the 2026 Apprenticeship Intake Is Worth Applying For
The Columbus Stainless Apprenticeship Learnership 2026 intake is ideal for young people seeking a practical alternative to university education. Apprenticeships provide structured learning, real workplace experience, and a pathway to becoming a skilled professional in a high-demand industry.
With South Africa facing a shortage of skilled technical workers, completing an apprenticeship at a respected company like Columbus Stainless can significantly improve long-term career prospects.
careersfocus.co.za Disclaimer
careersfocus.co.za is an independent career information website. We are not affiliated with Columbus Stainless. All information shared is for awareness and guidance purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to confirm details directly with the official employer before applying.

Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions about professional goals. you can contact me at info@careersfocus.co.za or our website https://careersfocus.co.za/
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