Your Next Step: Become a Fitter & Electrical Apprentice in South Africa
Are you a South African teenager who loves gadgets, machinery, and figuring out how things work? COFCO International is inviting young people from Lekwa, Mpumalanga, to join the Fitter & Electrical Apprenticeship Programme in 2026 at the Standerton Oil Mills. This job will start on April 1, 2026, and the apprenticeship will help you learn real‑world skills in a big global company.
Who is COFCO International?
COFCO International is a world‑wide agriculture business based in Geneva, Switzerland. It has more than 11,000 staff members in 35 countries and works in the grain, oilseed, and sugar markets. COFCO trades across 50 nations and focuses on feeding people safely while supporting local communities through training and job opportunities.
The Standerton Oil Mills site has decided to open a training programme that will let young people like you learn mechanical and electrical fitting. This is part of COFCO’s plan to grow talent in the Lekwa area.
What the Apprenticeship Is About
The training program mixes classroom lessons with hands‑on work on the plant floor. You will get technical knowledge plus time to practice fixing and setting up machines. By the end of the programme, you could become a certified artisan in mechanical and electrical fitting.
You will work beside skilled technicians. They will show you how to read technical drawings and use safety tools. The goal is to give you a clear idea of industry standards and the day‑to‑day care of equipment.
Your Main Tasks
- Learn how to help fitters repair, install, and maintain machines.
- Read and understand technical drawings, pages of schematics, and diagrams.
- Take part in regular checks and routine maintenance to keep gear running smoothly.
- Follow all safety rules that the company sets out for you.
- Attend both theory lessons and on‑site classes that are part of the programme.
Who Should Apply
- You need a Grade 12 or Matric certificate that includes Mathematics and Physical Science.
- If you already have an N2 Certificate or higher in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, that’s a plus.
- You must pass the internal tests that COFCO will give you during the selection process.
- Proof that you live in or around the Lekwa area will be helpful.
- The programme gives priority to South African youth under 35 years old.
Personal Qualities That Will Help
- A genuine interest in how machines and electrical systems work.
- Good speaking and teamwork skills.
- A willingness to keep learning and growing inside the company.
- Sharp attention to small details.
- The ability to meet deadlines and stay calm when pressures rise.
How to Get Started
If you think you meet the requirements, send your application online. Visit the COFCO International careers portal and fill out the form.
Apply now for the COFCO International Fitter & Electrical Apprenticeship Programme 2026
Make sure to upload the following documents:
- Copy of your diploma or certificate.
- Proof of residence in Lekwa.
- Any other qualification documents you have.
All files should be clear and readable so the hiring team can review them quickly.
Why You Should Consider This
- Real‑world experience in a large farming and manufacturing setting.
- Guidance from experts who explain real job tricks and tips.
- A clear path to becoming an artisan, which can open doors to many roles later on.
- A chance to create a better future for yourself and your community by learning a portable skill.
COFCO International is looking for motivated teenagers ready to learn and take on responsibility. If you are curious about machinery, want a safe and supportive learning environment, and want to start a career where you can see the results of your work, this apprenticeship could be exactly the right fit. Apply today and turn your curiosity into a professional future.