AFGRI Equipment is recruiting 40 Tractor and Earthmoving Apprentices for a three-year training pathway across its South African branch network. Candidates need Grade 12 with English and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, plus a valid driver’s licence. The contracts offer market-related pay, and applications close on 30 September 2026.
The programme begins with a six-month probation period before successful participants enter formal apprenticeship contracts. Depending on their placement and training route, apprentices will work towards qualifying as Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.
AFGRI has listed the opportunity under reference number AO-2345. The company will use interviews, screening questions and assessments to select suitable candidates.
What will AFGRI apprentices learn during the programme?
The apprenticeship combines technical instruction with practical experience inside AFGRI’s repair workshops.
These workshops service agricultural equipment as well as construction, forestry, golf and turf machinery. Consequently, apprentices can develop their mechanical knowledge while working around specialised equipment.
The programme will train participants to:
- Diagnose basic mechanical problems
- Repair tractors or earthmoving machinery
- Maintain related mechanical equipment
- Use workshop tools correctly
- Follow technical and safety procedures
- Assist with stock control
- Communicate with customers
- Work effectively with qualified mechanics
- Complete general workplace responsibilities
- Build the competencies required for the relevant trade
Apprentices must participate actively in both the practical and theoretical parts of the programme.
How does the six-month probation period work?
The first six months serve as a probation period.
During this time, AFGRI and the apprentice can assess whether the programme provides a suitable long-term match. Either party may withdraw during probation without the consequences attached to the later apprenticeship and work-back commitments.
Apprentices who complete probation successfully will enter an AFGRI contract and continue with the formal training process.
Although probation provides an assessment period, candidates should enter the programme intending to complete the full apprenticeship.
What happens after apprentices complete probation?
After probation, apprentices will begin structured formal training.
Depending on programme requirements and availability, the training may include:
- Attendance at a practical training institute
- Training through the relevant technical phases
- Registration for distance-learning subjects through a college
- Saturday classes
- Continued theoretical learning during workplace training
- Product training from equipment suppliers
- Technical instruction from AFGRI specialists
- Internal practical training
Apprentices must balance workshop duties with their theoretical studies. Therefore, they should prepare for learning activities outside normal workplace hours when required.
Which training authorities support the programme?
AFGRI supports its apprenticeship training through one of two sector education and training authorities:
- The Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority
- The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority
AFGRI and each apprentice will enter the applicable training arrangement with one of these authorities.
The relevant authority will depend on the apprenticeship route and trade requirements.
Who meets the AFGRI apprenticeship requirements?
Candidates must have completed Grade 12 and hold a valid driver’s licence.
Applicants also need:
- Good communication skills
- Administrative ability
- Computer literacy
- Strong attention to detail
- The ability to work in a team
- A goal-oriented attitude
- The ability to meet deadlines
- Motivation to complete technical training
Because workshop training involves tools, machinery and safety procedures, candidates must follow instructions carefully and work responsibly.
Which Grade 12 subjects does AFGRI require?
Applicants must have passed English and one of the following mathematics subjects:
- Mathematics
- Technical Mathematics
Mathematical Literacy does not meet the requirement.
Candidates may strengthen their applications if they have passed any of these subjects:
- Engineering or Technical Science
- Physical Science
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
AFGRI lists these technical subjects as advantageous rather than compulsory. However, applicants must still meet the English and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics requirements.
Why is a driver’s licence compulsory?
AFGRI requires every applicant to hold a valid driver’s licence.
Tractor and earthmoving mechanics may need to move equipment, complete testing procedures or travel as part of workshop operations. A licence also demonstrates that the candidate meets an important practical condition attached to the apprenticeship.
Applicants should confirm that their licence remains valid before starting the online form.
Where could apprentices complete their training?
AFGRI operates an extensive branch and workshop network across South Africa.
Potential placements may fall within the following branch network:
- Bethal, Bethlehem, Brits, Delmas, Frankfort, Grootvlei, Komatipoort and Marble Hall
- Middelburg, Standerton, Harrismith, Marquard, Thabazimbi, Polokwane and Kempton Park
- Bellville, Malmesbury, Ceres, Worcester, Piketberg, George, Vredendal and Caledon
- Tzaneen, Springbok, Nelspruit, Newcastle, Winterton, Dalton and Pietermaritzburg
- Empangeni, Salt Rock and Kokstad
The advertisement covers South African placements. Applicants should consider whether they can work at an available AFGRI branch if the company offers them a position outside their immediate area.
Will AFGRI cover the training costs?
AFGRI provides the required training free of charge when apprentices pass their subjects and training phases.
However, apprentices who fail a subject or phase must repeat it at their own cost and in their own time.
This condition makes consistent study and class attendance particularly important. Apprentices must manage their theoretical learning alongside daily workshop responsibilities.
What is the work-back commitment?
The apprenticeship includes a work-back period after qualification.
The work-back period will equal the time the apprentice took to qualify, calculated in years. For example, an apprentice who takes three years to qualify may need to complete an equivalent three-year work-back period.
If an apprentice withdraws during formal training or the required work-back period, AFGRI may require repayment of training costs according to the contract.
Candidates should read the apprenticeship agreement carefully before signing. The repayment and work-back conditions create a longer commitment than the initial training period alone.
How long can the apprenticeship contract continue?
The formal training pathway aims to qualify apprentices in approximately three years.
However, the apprenticeship contract cannot continue for more than four years. If an apprentice fails to qualify within that maximum period, the contract will expire.
Apprentices should therefore remain focused on completing every phase, subject and workplace requirement within the allocated period.
How can candidates prepare for the assessment?
AFGRI requires applicants to complete screening and assessment questions.
The assessment may take at least 30 minutes, so candidates should begin when they have enough uninterrupted time.
Before starting, applicants should prepare:
- An updated curriculum vitae
- A valid South African identity document
- A valid driver’s licence
- A Grade 12 certificate
- A copy of their academic results
- Details of any technical qualifications
- Accurate contact information
- Employment or training history, where applicable
Candidates must answer the screening questions using their own knowledge. They should not ask another person to complete the assessment on their behalf.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Confirm the subject name on your Grade 12 certificate before starting. AFGRI accepts Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, but not Mathematical Literacy. Also set aside at least 30 uninterrupted minutes for the screening questions so that you do not rush through the technical and eligibility sections.
What qualities could strengthen an application?
AFGRI seeks motivated candidates who can manage both physical workshop learning and theoretical training.
Strong candidates should demonstrate:
- Genuine interest in tractors or heavy machinery
- Mechanical curiosity
- Careful attention to detail
- Safety awareness
- Reliability
- Self-discipline
- Willingness to attend additional classes
- The ability to solve problems
- Respect for tools and equipment
- Strong teamwork
- Goal-focused behaviour
- Commitment to completing the trade
Applicants can mention mechanical projects completed at school, practical assignments, workshop exposure or experience repairing engines and equipment.
However, they should describe only genuine experience and avoid overstating their technical ability.
How can candidates submit their applications?
Applications must be completed through the official AFGRI Equipment online application portal.
Candidates should then:
- Create or sign in to an applicant profile.
- Complete all compulsory personal information.
- Enter accurate Grade 12 subject results.
- Add valid driver’s licence details.
- Upload an updated curriculum vitae.
- Include relevant technical qualifications.
- Complete the screening and assessment questions.
- Review every response carefully.
- Submit before the deadline.
- Keep confirmation of submission.
Applicants should use reference number AO-2345 when identifying the apprenticeship.
What happens after applications close?
AFGRI may invite suitable candidates to participate in interviews and further assessments.
Applicants must make themselves available for the process defined by the company. Furthermore, appointment decisions will align with AFGRI’s Employment Equity Policy.
Candidates who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date may regard their applications as unsuccessful.
When do AFGRI apprenticeship applications close?
Applications close on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.
Late or incomplete submissions may not receive consideration. Therefore, candidates should start early, particularly because the screening process may take at least 30 minutes.
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Final Thoughts
The AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeships 2026 offer 40 candidates a structured route towards qualifying as Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.
Successful applicants will complete approximately three years of in-service training, beginning with six months of probation. They will receive market-related pay while gaining workshop experience and completing the required theoretical training.
Candidates need Grade 12 with English and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, as well as a valid driver’s licence. Since Mathematical Literacy does not qualify, applicants should confirm their subjects carefully before submitting by 30 September 2026.
