Urgent Intake | 40 Apprenticeships Available | Agricultural & Earthmoving Mechanics | South Africa
A major technical training opportunity is now open with AFGRI, a leading agricultural equipment and machinery service provider in South Africa and internationally. The company is recruiting 40 Apprenticeship positions for motivated candidates who want to build a career as Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.
This structured 3-year programme offers hands-on technical training, formal learning, and real workplace experience in the agricultural engineering sector.
🔧 Limited intake – 40 positions only. Apply before 30 September 2026.
Apprenticeship Job Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Apprenticeship (Tractor / Earthmoving Mechanic) |
| Company | AFGRI |
| Location | South Africa (Multiple branches nationwide) |
| Employment Type | Contract (Apprenticeship) |
| Positions Available | 40 |
| Programme Duration | 3 Years |
| Industry | Technical / Agriculture / Engineering |
| Job Reference | AO-2345 |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 |
| Application Status | Open |
About the Company
AFGRI has been the official John Deere agency since 1962, serving agricultural, construction, forestry, and turf machinery markets across South Africa and international regions including Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, and Australia.
With a large branch network and highly equipped workshops, the company specialises in machinery repair, maintenance, and technical support for heavy-duty agricultural equipment.
About the Apprenticeship Programme
This apprenticeship is a structured 3-year technical training programme designed to develop qualified Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.
The programme combines:
- Practical workplace training
- Formal technical education
- Industry certification through accredited training authorities
- Hands-on exposure to real machinery systems
The first 6 months serve as a probation period where suitability is assessed by both the apprentice and the company.
Training Structure & Development Path
Probation Period (First 6 Months)
- Evaluation of performance and suitability
- Both apprentice and employer assess long-term fit
- Either party may withdraw without penalties
Formal Apprenticeship Phase
- Registration under AFGRI contract after probation
- Training through AgriSETA or MerSETA
- Attendance at technical training institutes (where required)
- Distance learning and Saturday classes (if applicable)
Workplace Training
- Hands-on repair and maintenance of machinery
- Product training from suppliers and AFGRI specialists
- Internal technical workshops and assessments
Key Responsibilities of an Apprentice
Technical Training & Repair Work
- Learn to repair and maintain tractors and earthmoving equipment
- Assist technicians with servicing agricultural machinery
- Develop diagnostic and mechanical troubleshooting skills
Workshop Support
- Assist with stock control and parts management
- Support workshop operations and maintenance schedules
- Follow safety procedures and technical standards
Customer & Operational Support
- Assist with customer service queries
- Support technicians during field and workshop repairs
- Maintain professionalism in client-facing situations
General Duties
- Perform general workshop tasks
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of work areas
- Participate in structured training and assessments
Minimum Requirements – Apprenticeship Programme
Education:
- Grade 12 (Matric) — essential
- Must have passed:
- English — essential
- Mathematics or Technical Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy) — essential
Advantageous Subjects:
- Engineering / Technical Science
- Engineering Graphics & Design
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
Other Requirements:
- Valid driver’s licence — essential
- Basic computer literacy — essential
- Good communication skills
- Administrative ability
Behavioural Competencies Required
Motivation & Commitment
Strong desire to complete a 3-year technical apprenticeship successfully.
Attention to Detail
Ability to work accurately on mechanical systems and technical tasks.
Teamwork
Work effectively with technicians, supervisors, and workshop teams.
Discipline
Ability to meet deadlines, follow procedures, and maintain consistency.
Goal Orientation
Focus on completing training milestones and qualification requirements.
Important Training Conditions
- Apprenticeship is a 3-year contract (maximum 4 years allowed)
- Training is free if modules are passed
- Failed subjects must be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost
- Work-back obligation applies after qualification
- Early withdrawal may require repayment of training costs
Career Growth Opportunities in Agricultural Engineering
Successful apprentices at AFGRI can progress into:
- Apprentice → Qualified Tractor Mechanic
- Mechanic → Senior Technician
- Senior Technician → Workshop Supervisor
- Supervisor → Technical Manager
- Manager → Regional Service Specialist
This is a long-term technical career pathway in a high-demand industry.
Frequently Asked Questions – Apprenticeship Programme
How many positions are available?
There are 40 apprenticeship positions available.
How long is the programme?
The apprenticeship runs for 3 years.
Is Matric required?
Yes, Grade 12 with Maths or Technical Maths is essential.
Do I need experience?
No prior experience is required.
Is this a paid programme?
Yes, apprentices typically receive structured training support and allowances.
Where will training take place?
Across multiple AFGRI branches in South Africa.
How to Apply for the Apprenticeship Programme
Submit your application to AFGRI with the following:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- ID copy
- Driver’s licence (if available)
- Academic transcripts showing required subjects
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and assessments.
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Post last updated: 2026 | Keywords: apprenticeship jobs South Africa 2026, AFGRI apprenticeship programme, tractor mechanic apprenticeship, earthmoving mechanic training, agricultural apprenticeships South Africa, technical learnerships 2026, engineering apprenticeships South Africa
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