Your Next Big Step: Apply for UMK Mining & Mineral Processing Learnerships 2026
If you’re a South African teenager who wants a real job in the mining sector, UMK (United Manganese of Kalahari) is looking for you. They’re opening 13 spots for the 2026 Mining and Mineral Processing Learnerships, and you can join the team that works in the Northern Cape’s John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District and Joe Morolong Local Municipality. The deadline for sending your application is 16 December 2025. Whether you want to learn how to dig, drill, or process minerals, these learnerships give you hands‑on work, a recognised certificate, and a chance to build a future.
About UMK
UMK is one of South Africa’s biggest manganese mines. The company is known for working responsibly and helping the local community. They do open‑cast mining (mining from the surface) and focus on safe, eco‑friendly methods. UMK also invests a lot in training young people, so if you’re from the JTG area and looking for a career, this could be your chance.
2026 Mining Learnership (18.2)
Positions available: 10
This course puts you straight into the mining department. You’ll learn everything from blasting and drilling to digging and hauling. The goal is to give you real skills that can lead to jobs such as:
- General miner
- Drilling operator
- Equipment operator
- Blasting assistant
- Safety officer
- Miner supervisor
Who should apply?
- Finished Grade 12, especially with Mathematics and Physical Science
- Live in JTG District or Joe Morolong Municipality
- Fit to work in a mining environment (you’ll need a medical check)
- Good at talking to others and using tools
- Disciplined, reliable, and ready to learn
- Positive, and able to follow safety rules
The training will also cover safety procedures and how to stay healthy on the job. If you’re ready to learn the basics of mining and want a job that can grow, this learnership is for you.
2026 Mineral Processing Learnership (18.2)
Positions available: 3
In this program you’ll see how manganese ore is turned into a product ready for export. You’ll learn how to crush, screen, scrub, and manage the plant. All the training is accredited by the MQA (Mining Qualifications Authority), so you’ll receive a recognised certificate that can help you get a job later.
Who should apply?
- Finished Grade 10 or have an ABET Level 4 qualification
- Live in JTG District or Joe Morolong Municipality
- Have a strong work ethic and a positive attitude
- Basic technical and communication skills
- Fit for working in a plant setting (medical check required)
After finishing the learnership, you could move into roles like:
- Plant attendant
- Crushing plant operator
- Control room technician
- Metallurgical assistant
- Processing supervisor
Why These Learnerships are Important
Mining is a major part of South Africa’s economy, and it’s a field that needs skilled people. With these learnerships you will:
- Earn a formal qualification that shows you know the job
- Get real experience working with equipment and people
- Improve your chances of finding a long‑term job
- Help lift your own community by learning skills that can bring new work to the area
For young people in the JTG District, this is a way to start a stable career in a high‑growth industry.
How to Apply
Prepare the following documents:
- An updated CV
- A certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your school certificates or other qualifications
- Write the position you’re applying for and the reference number in the email subject line
Send your application to Recruitment@umk.co.za.
Make sure you include everything above so your email is complete.Use this clear, friendly link to apply: Apply for UMK Learnerships Now (click the text to go to the email address or copy and paste it into your mail client).
The deadline to apply is 16 December 2025, so don’t wait. If you’re ready to start a real career and learn valuable skills, this is a great place to begin. Good luck, and we hope to hear from you soon!