RCL FOODS Sugar Engineering Apprenticeship Programme 2025/26
RCL FOODS Sugar is opening a new Engineering Apprenticeship Programme for the 2025/26 year. The job is for young people in South Africa who want to learn real engineering skills and get paid while they train. The programme will start at two sugar mills: Malelane Mill and Komati Mill. Interested candidates need to apply by 31 October 2025.
What the Apprenticeship Looks Like
The apprenticeship is a mix of classroom learning and hands‑on work inside a sugar factory. You will spend about 20 weeks at an Industrial Training Centre in Mount Edgecombe. The course there will give you basic knowledge in the trade you choose. After that, you move to the mill for around 29 weeks of on‑the‑job training. You will see how equipment is built, how processes run, and how to keep machines running safely.
Throughout the program, you will study concepts in math, science, and engineering. Each year you will take a small test to show you’re improving. At the end, you will sit for a last Trade Test that will give you a nationally recognised qualification in your chosen field.
Trades Available
Four trades are open right now:
- Electrical – work with wiring, motors, and circuits.
- Boilermaker – build and repair pressure vessels and steam boilers.
- Instrumentation – set up sensors, control systems, and monitoring tools.
- Fitting & Turning – machine parts, fit gears, and shape metal components.
If you already have a Level‑4 qualification in any of these areas, you have an advantage.
What You Will Do
- Attend every scheduled class at the training centre and on the mill.
- Rotate through different sections of the mill to learn various tasks.
- Follow all safety rules, quality checks, and operating procedures.
- Keep a record of your progress and prepare for the yearly mini‑test and the last trade test.
- Report to the trade supervisor (e.g., the Foreman for Electrical).
You are expected to be self‑motivated, work well alone or in a team, and be able to handle the physical demands of a factory environment.
Who Can Apply
- You must have finished Grade 12 (Matric).
- You need at least a National Certificate Level 3 (or an equivalent) in an engineering subject.
- Good grades in Mathematics, Engineering Science, Industrial Electronics, Electrical Technology, or a similar technical subject will help.
- You must be medically fit for factory work.
How to Apply
Send an email to Jobs@rclfoods.com.
Subject line: Application – Technical Apprenticeship – [Your Trade] – Malelane/Komati
What to attach in a single PDF (recommended):
- Cover letter and CV.
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Certified certificates of your Matric and your National Certificate (or higher).
- Any other trade‑related certificates you may have.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so upload all documents and double‑check before you hit send.
Apply Now: Apply Now
Quick Reference
- Business Unit: RCL FOODS Sugar
- Job Title: Technical Apprenticeship – Electrical / Boilermaker / Instrumentation / Fitting & Turning
- Locations: Malelane Mill, Komati Mill
- Supervisor: Foreman or trade supervisor
If you are excited about building real engineering skills, learning from industry professionals, and earning while you train, this apprenticeship might be the right start for you. Don’t miss the chance to join a respected company that values fresh talent. Be ready to work hard, learn fast, and take the next step toward a career in engineering.