Transnet Boilermaker and Welder Apprenticeships 2026: Apply Now
Transnet is inviting applications for Boilermaker and Welder apprenticeship opportunities as part of its 2026 technical apprenticeship intake. The opportunities are aimed at young South Africans who want to develop practical engineering and artisan skills while gaining valuable workplace experience.
The two opportunities are advertised separately under Transnet Corporate Centre, but they share several of the same eligibility requirements. The Boilermaker apprenticeship is based in Koedoespoort, while the Welder apprenticeship is available in Bloemfontein, Koedoespoort, Salt River and Durban.
Both vacancies have a closing date of 20 October 2026.
Transnet Apprenticeship Opportunities at a Glance
Apprentice: Boilermaker
- Reference: req5979
- Location: Koedoespoort
- Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre
- Employee Group: Trainee
- Grade: APP
- Closing date: 20 October 2026
Apprentice: Welder
- Reference: req5980
- Locations: Bloemfontein, Koedoespoort, Salt River and Durban
- Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre
- Employee Group: Trainee
- Grade: APP
- Closing date: 20 October 2026
What Is the Transnet Apprenticeship Programme?
The purpose of the apprenticeship programme is to prepare participants to become competent and productive qualified artisans.
Apprentices receive practical exposure to technical activities while developing the knowledge and skills required in their chosen trade. The training involves activities such as planning and preparing work areas, using tools and equipment, manufacturing and assembling components, inspecting work, carrying out repairs and applying technical knowledge in different workplace situations.
Transnet’s apprenticeship programmes are designed to combine vocational training with practical workplace experience. Depending on the trade and programme, apprentices can progress towards a trade test and eventual artisan qualification.
Transnet Boilermaker Apprenticeship 2026
The Apprentice: Boilermaker vacancy, reference req5979, is based at Koedoespoort.
Boilermaking is a practical engineering trade involving the fabrication, assembly, maintenance and repair of metal structures, components and equipment.
An apprentice in this field can expect to develop skills related to preparing materials, using workshop equipment, assembling components and working with technical drawings and specifications.
Potential areas of training include:
- Preparing work areas, tools and materials.
- Measuring and marking materials.
- Using hand and power tools.
- Cutting and shaping materials.
- Fabricating and assembling components.
- Inspecting completed work.
- Modifying and repairing components.
- Following engineering drawings and specifications.
- Maintaining tools and equipment.
- Applying occupational health and safety procedures.
The vacancy is intended for candidates who want to develop their practical abilities and progress towards becoming qualified artisans.
Transnet Welder Apprenticeship 2026
The Apprentice: Welder vacancy, reference req5980, is available across several locations:
- Bloemfontein
- Koedoespoort
- Salt River
- Durban
Welding is an important technical skill in manufacturing, engineering, construction, transport and heavy industry.
The apprenticeship provides an opportunity for candidates to develop practical welding and fabrication skills under the guidance of experienced personnel.
Training can involve preparing work areas and materials, operating appropriate tools and equipment, assembling components, carrying out welding-related activities, inspecting completed work and assisting with repairs and modifications.
Candidates should be comfortable working in a hands-on environment and following strict safety and quality procedures.
Important Note About the Advertised Duties
The published Transnet vacancy descriptions for these apprenticeships contain some generic apprenticeship wording, and parts of the description may refer to activities associated with other technical trades.
Applicants should therefore focus on the official job title and reference number when applying:
- req5979 = Apprentice: Boilermaker
- req5980 = Apprentice: Welder
Candidates should also carefully read the live application page and any screening questions before submitting their applications.
Who Can Apply?
The two apprenticeship opportunities have similar entry requirements.
Applicants must be:
- South African citizens
- Between 18 and 30 years old
- Able to meet one of the specified technical education pathways
- Able to demonstrate at least 50% in Mathematics
- Without an existing Trade Certificate or Red Seal
Applicants must also attach their relevant qualifications and academic records.
Accepted Qualification Routes
Candidates can qualify through one of several educational pathways.
N2 to N6 Certificate
Applicants may qualify with an N2 to N6 Certificate containing relevant subjects such as:
- Relevant Trade Theory
- Engineering Science
- Mathematics
- Other relevant subjects
The trade theory should be relevant to the apprenticeship for which the candidate is applying.
NCV Level 4
Applicants with an NCV Level 4 Certificate may also qualify if they have:
- Relevant trade theory
- Mathematics
- Appropriate vocational subjects
Technical Grade 12
Candidates may also qualify with a Technical Grade 12 qualification that includes:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Relevant Trade Theory
Applicants should check that their subjects meet the requirements before applying.
Mathematics Requirement
One of the important requirements for these Transnet apprenticeship opportunities is Mathematics at 50% or higher.
This means candidates should carefully check their academic records before applying.
If Mathematics was taken as part of an N2-N6, NCV Level 4 or Technical Grade 12 qualification, applicants should make sure the relevant result is clearly reflected in their academic documentation.
What Skills Does Transnet Look For?
The apprenticeship vacancies highlight several competencies that can help candidates succeed.
Problem-solving
Technical trades involve identifying problems and finding practical solutions. Apprentices need to develop the ability to analyse problems and determine appropriate actions.
Communication
Apprentices work with supervisors, artisans, instructors and other employees. Good communication is therefore important in a technical workplace.
Analytical skills
Candidates need to understand technical information, measurements, equipment and processes.
Teamwork
Most industrial work is performed as part of a team. Apprentices should be able to work cooperatively with colleagues while following instructions.
Willingness to learn
An apprenticeship is a learning opportunity. Candidates should be prepared to learn new technical skills and accept guidance from experienced artisans.
What Will Apprentices Learn?
Although the exact activities will depend on the trade and workplace, the apprenticeship programme can expose participants to a range of practical activities.
These may include:
- Planning and preparing work areas.
- Preparing tools, equipment and materials.
- Using hand tools.
- Using power tools.
- Using measuring equipment.
- Manufacturing components.
- Assembling components.
- Inspecting completed work.
- Testing equipment and assemblies.
- Maintaining equipment.
- Repairing components.
- Modifying existing components.
- Following technical specifications.
- Applying workplace safety procedures.
The ultimate objective is to help apprentices develop the practical competence required to work towards becoming qualified artisans.
Why Consider a Transnet Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship can be particularly valuable for young people who prefer practical technical work rather than a purely academic career path.
Transnet operates major transport infrastructure in South Africa, creating a large industrial environment in which technical skills are important.
For candidates interested in engineering, manufacturing, welding, metal fabrication, railway equipment, maintenance or artisan careers, the opportunity can provide useful workplace exposure.
However, applicants should understand that an apprenticeship is primarily a training and development opportunity. Completion of the programme should not be interpreted as an automatic guarantee of permanent employment. Future placement depends on available vacancies and Transnet’s recruitment requirements.
Documents to Prepare
Applicants should prepare their documents before starting the online application.
These may include:
- South African ID
- Updated CV
- Grade 12 certificate
- N2-N6 certificates, where applicable
- NCV Level 4 certificate, where applicable
- Technical Grade 12 certificate, where applicable
- Academic records
- Relevant trade-related qualifications
- Other documents requested by the application portal
Make sure your documents are clear and that the information on your application matches your certificates and academic records.
How to Apply for the Transnet Apprenticeships
Interested candidates should apply through the official Transnet Talent Portal.
Apply for Apprentice: Boilermaker – req5979
Apply for the Transnet Boilermaker Apprenticeship
Apply for Apprentice: Welder – req5980
Apply for the Transnet Welder Apprenticeship
Make sure you select the correct trade and reference number when completing your application.
Application Tips
Before submitting your application, check that:
- You are a South African citizen.
- You are between 18 and 30 years old.
- You meet one of the accepted qualification routes.
- You achieved at least 50% in Mathematics.
- You do not already have a Red Seal trade certificate.
- Your relevant qualifications are attached.
- Your academic record is attached.
- Your CV contains accurate contact details.
- You have selected the correct apprenticeship.
- You submit the application before 20 October 2026.
Do not wait until the closing date to apply. Give yourself enough time to complete the online application and upload all required documents.
Can You Apply for Both Opportunities?
The Boilermaker and Welder vacancies have separate reference numbers and application pages.
If you meet the requirements and are genuinely interested in both trades, check the Transnet application instructions to determine whether you may submit applications for both. If applying separately, make sure you use the correct reference number for each trade.
Remember:
req5979 = Boilermaker
req5980 = Welder
Beware of Transnet Job Scams
Applicants should be careful of people who claim they can secure a Transnet apprenticeship in exchange for money.
Do not pay anyone for a Transnet job, interview or apprenticeship placement.
Use the official Transnet Talent Portal when applying and never share sensitive banking information, passwords or one-time PINs with someone claiming to be a recruiter.
Final Thoughts
The Transnet Boilermaker and Welder Apprenticeships 2026 provide opportunities for young South Africans interested in developing practical artisan skills.
The Boilermaker opportunity is based in Koedoespoort, while the Welder opportunity is available in Bloemfontein, Koedoespoort, Salt River and Durban.
Both opportunities require candidates to be 18 to 30 years old, South African citizens, have an appropriate technical qualification, achieve at least 50% in Mathematics, and not already hold a Red Seal trade certificate.
The closing date for both vacancies is 20 October 2026. Eligible candidates should prepare their documents and submit their applications through the official Transnet Talent Portal before the deadline.
