Rand Water is looking for fresh, unemployed South African teens and young adults to join its 2026 Water and Wastewater Treatment Learnership Programme. This is a chance to learn real jobs in water supply and sanitation while earning a recognized qualification that can lead to a steady career.
Application deadline: 27 February 2026
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
If you care about keeping our water clean, want to see how big city water works, and are ready to get hands‑on experience, this learnership could be the first step toward a future in the water and sanitation field.
About Rand Water
Rand Water is one of the world’s biggest water utilities. It provides clean drinking water to more than 12 million people in South Africa’s business hub. The company started in 1903 and has kept a steady supply of water for Johannesburg even though the city is not close to a large natural river. Over the years, engineers at Rand Water have built clever systems to make sure water always reaches the homes and businesses that depend on it. They also focus on creating jobs and teaching new skills to help South Africa grow.
What the Learnership Looks Like
The programme mixes two parts:
- Classes taught in a classroom setting
- Real work experience at operating water plants
As a learner you will pick up key skills such as:
- How water is cleaned before it reaches your tap
- How to handle wastewater safely
- Following safety rules on the job
- Operating a plant and its machines
- Doing lab tests and taking samples
When you finish, you will have a formal qualification that makes it easier to get a job in the water services sector.
Learnership Options
You can choose from two paths:
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Operations Learnership
- Water and Wastewater Reticulation Services Learnership
What You’ll Be Doing
If you are selected, you will:
- Help run and keep up water and wastewater plants
- Check the quality of water and wastewater by measuring key parameters
- Carry out simple laboratory tests
- Help maintain tools and equipment
- Take part in sample collection and analysis
- Go to classes, fill out assignments, and keep a logbook
- Take exams that show what you have learned
Who Can Apply?
We need applicants who meet all of these conditions:
- Unemployed and not already in another training program or school
- Have a Matric (Grade 12) certificate with at least a Level 3 score in Mathematics and Physical Science
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Be between 18 and 35 years old, in line with the National Skills Development Strategy III
- If you have a post‑matric qualification, you must tell us – otherwise you won’t be considered
What We’re Looking For in You
These qualities help you succeed in a learnership and future job:
- Good talking and teamwork skills
- Can solve problems and think critically
- Manages time and stays organised
- Can adapt when things change
- Shows a positive, eager attitude
- Wants to keep learning and improving
- Shows respect to coworkers and supervisors
- Will take initiative when needed
Documents You Need
Make sure you bring these items, all in certified copies where required:
- Copy of your South African ID
- Proof that you live in South Africa (e.g., a utility bill)
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- SAQA / NLRD verification report (you can get this from the SAQA website – just click “SAQA Verifications Service” and download the NLRD extract)
- Updated CV
Keep the documents clear and make sure they are certified.
How to Apply
When you’re ready, use the links below to apply online. Make sure you have all your documents ready before you start.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Operations Learnership
Apply now for the Rand Water Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Operations Learnership
Water and Wastewater Reticulation Services Learnership
Apply now for the Rand Water Water and Wastewater Reticulation Services Learnership
Don’t wait – the deadline is 27 February 2026. This could be your first step into a job that helps keep our cities clean and safe. Good luck, and we hope to see your application soon!
