Young South Africans who dream of becoming qualified artisans in the mining industry now have an exciting opportunity to start their careers with one of the country’s most advanced mining projects. Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, has officially opened applications for its Artisan Learnership Programme 2026, offering structured technical training across several engineering trades.
The learnership programme provides successful applicants with practical workplace experience, accredited artisan training and the opportunity to work at the world class Platreef Mine near Mokopane in Limpopo. If you have completed Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science and hold an N2 Engineering qualification this could be your pathway to becoming a qualified artisan.
Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme 2026
Ivanplats is inviting suitably qualified South African candidates to apply for its Artisan Learnership Programme. The programme is designed to develop future artisans through practical workplace training and structured learning within one of Africa’s largest underground mining developments. Successful learners will receive exposure to modern mechanised mining technology while working alongside experienced artisans and technical professionals.
Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme Overview
| Company: Ivanplats Pty Ltd
| Parent Company: Ivanhoe Mines
| Programme: Artisan Learnership Programme
| Ref No: IVP HRD 2615
| Placement: Mokopane Limpopo
| Industry: Mining and Engineering
| Duration: Up to 3 Years
| Best Before: 17 July 2026
About Ivanplats
Ivanplats is developing the Platreef Mine near Mokopane in Limpopo Province. The project is recognised as one of the world’s largest deposits of palladium, rhodium, nickel, copper and gold. The mine is being developed using advanced mechanised underground mining methods and modern technologies aimed at creating the “mine of the future.”
The Artisan Learnership Programme forms part of the company’s commitment to developing skilled South African artisans for the mining industry.
Available Artisan Trades
Successful applicants may be placed in one of the following technical disciplines:
- Auto Electrician
- Boilermaker
- Diesel Mechanic
- Fitter and Turner
- Instrumentation
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Rigger
These trades remain among the most sought after technical careers within South Africa’s mining and engineering sectors.
Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 Certificate
- Mathematics passed with at least 60 percent
- Physical Science passed with at least 60 percent
- N2 Engineering qualification
- South African citizen or permanent resident
Applicants who meet the academic requirements and demonstrate a strong interest in engineering are encouraged to apply.
Learnership Duration
Successful candidates will participate in the programme for a maximum period of three years or until they obtain their Trade Qualification, whichever comes first. The programme combines classroom learning with practical workplace experience to prepare learners for qualified artisan careers.
Programme Conditions
Applicants should be willing to:
- Work underground and on surface where applicable
- Participate in all required mining operations
- Successfully complete a medical fitness examination
- Complete capability assessments
- Participate fully in technical training and workplace learning
Mining environments require a strong commitment to safety, discipline and teamwork.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified South African Identity Document
- Letter from the Tribal Authority or Induna
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Preference Will Be Given To
Ivanplats has indicated that preference will be given to:
- Historically Disadvantaged South Africans
- Women applicants
- Candidates from communities surrounding the Ivanplats Platreef Mine
Applications are open only to South African citizens and permanent residents.
Why Choose an Artisan Learnership?
Qualified artisans continue to be among the most in demand professionals within South Africa’s mining, manufacturing and engineering industries.
An artisan qualification can open career opportunities in:
- Underground mining
- Engineering companies
- Manufacturing plants
- Maintenance departments
- Heavy equipment operations
- Construction projects
- Industrial processing facilities
Experienced artisans often enjoy strong long term career prospects and opportunities for career advancement.
Skills You Will Develop
Participants can expect to strengthen their:
- Technical engineering knowledge
- Equipment maintenance skills
- Mechanical troubleshooting
- Workplace safety awareness
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Technical documentation
- Practical trade skills
These competencies are valuable across many engineering industries.
How to apply for Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme
- Follow the application portal provided below
- Attach supporting documents
- Complete all required fields
- Apply as instructed
APPLY HERE FOR IVANPLATS ARTISAN LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME
Applicants should ensure that:
- All supporting documents are attached
- Information is accurate and complete
- Applications are submitted before 17 July 2026
- Late applications will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the learnership?
- The programme runs for a maximum of three years or until the learner qualifies as an artisan.
Which trades are available?
- The programme includes Auto Electrician, Boilermaker, Diesel Mechanic, Fitter and Turner, Instrumentation, Mechanical Fitter, Millwright and Rigger.
What qualifications are required?
- Applicants need Grade 12 with at least 60 percent in Mathematics and Physical Science as well as an N2 Engineering qualification.
Will learners work underground?
- Yes. Depending on the trade learners must be willing to work both underground and on surface.
Who receives preference?
- Preference will be given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans, women and applicants from communities surrounding the Ivanplats Platreef Mine.
Final Thoughts
The Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for young South Africans who want to build long term careers in engineering and mining. Through structured technical training, practical workplace exposure and access to modern mining technology, learners will develop valuable artisan skills that remain highly sought after across South Africa’s industrial sector.
