Looking for a real‑world engineering job? UCL Company (Pty) Ltd is opening a Technical Apprenticeship Programme for 2026. This three‑year path will give you hands‑on work in a busy agricultural and industrial setting right in the KwaZulu‑Natal Midlands. If you’re ready to learn, build skills, and earn a nationally recognised trade certificate, read on to find out what you need and how to apply.
Where It All Happens
The apprenticeship will be based near Pietermaritzburg, within about 50 km of the city. Your main training base is the Shukela Training Centre (STC) in Mount Edgecombe. Throughout the program you’ll work on the plant floor at UCL, moving between different factory areas during both regular operations and yearly maintenance shutdowns.
About UCL
UCL is a medium‑sized company that runs a variety of agricultural projects in the scenic KwaZulu‑Natal Midlands. We’re looking for young people who can work on their own, stay motivated, and keep learning. If you enjoy fixing things or building them from scratch, this could be the right fit.
Which Trades Are Open?
Tell us the trade you want by writing it in the email subject line. The apprenticeships available this year are:
- Boilermaker
- Electrical
- Instrument Mechanical
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Fitter and Turner
What the Apprenticeship Looks Like
This is a full‑time, fixed‑term contract that lasts three years. Each year you’ll spend about 20 weeks at the Shukela Training Centre learning theory and practical skills. You’ll also get to work in the plant, where you’ll see how machines run, get hands‑on time during normal shifts, and help out during the annual maintenance break. At the end of each year we run a small test, and when you finish the program you’ll take a final exam that awards a national qualification.
We’ll renew your contract if you show good progress and finish the training successfully.
Who Can Apply?
We’re looking for people who have one of the following:
- Grade 12 with an N2 certificate
- Matric with technical subjects
- NCV Level 4
Beyond the certificates, we want someone who is eager to learn, can work independently, and will stick with the apprenticeship until the end.
What You’ll Gain
During the three years you’ll learn real skills that are useful in many jobs. You’ll:
- See how a sugar and extract factory operates
- Work during the big maintenance shutdowns to understand how machines are repaired
- Build practical industrial skills with a top‑class mentor
- Earn a nationally recognised trade qualification
Ready to Apply?
Send your application to the HR Department by 27 February 2026. We’ll need a few documents so we can check your qualifications:
- A current CV
- A certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your academic records
Email your application to trainingc@ucl.co.za. Make sure you write the trade you want in the subject line. Late submissions might not be reviewed.
Why This Apprenticeship Is Worth It
Choosing this program means:
- You’ll get clear, step‑by‑step training from experienced workers
- You’ll see how real factories run and how maintenance keeps everything running smoothly
- When you finish, you’ll have a national certificate that can open doors to many engineering jobs
- You’ll be on a path to a steady career in the technical trades
If you’re ready to start a career that’s both challenging and rewarding, this apprenticeship is the first step. Reach out today and turn your interest in engineering into a real job.
