A diesel mechanic career does not start with theory alone. It starts in the workshop, around tools, engines, safety checks and real equipment. Imerys is offering young people that kind of start through a 36-month Diesel Mechanic Learnership linked to both classroom training and practical mine and plant exposure.
This opportunity is aimed at community youth between the ages of 18 and 35 who want to build a future in a skilled technical trade.
The programme is based in Heidelberg, Western Cape, and gives selected learners a structured route into diesel mechanic training.
For young people who are serious about engines, machinery and hands-on problem-solving, this is not just another learnership. It is a long-term trade pathway.
What makes the Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership different?
The Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership is a 36-month apprenticeship-style programme designed for learners who want to enter the diesel mechanic field.
It combines formal learning with practical workplace exposure.
That means selected learners will not only study the trade. They will also gain experience in a real mine and plant environment where safety, discipline and technical accuracy matter every day.
The theoretical training is provided through Colliery Training College, an MQA-accredited training provider.
The practical side gives learners exposure to equipment, maintenance routines, workshop procedures and operational requirements.
Programme overview:
- Company: Imerys Refractory Minerals
- Opportunity: Diesel Mechanic Learnership
- Programme Type: Apprenticeship
- Duration: 36 months
- Training Provider: Colliery Training College
- Location: Heidelberg, Western Cape
- Industry: Mining and Quarrying
- Employment Type: Full Time
- Equity Status: EE/AA
Why should young technical candidates take this seriously?
A diesel mechanic trade can open doors in industries that rely on vehicles, engines and heavy machinery.
That includes mining, transport, construction, agriculture, logistics, manufacturing and plant operations.
But trade careers require more than interest.
They require time, discipline and practical training.
That is why this Imerys opportunity stands out.
A 36-month programme gives learners enough time to grow from basic understanding into real technical confidence.
This is the kind of opportunity that suits someone who wants to build a career with their hands, not just collect a certificate.
Who can be considered for this learnership?
This learnership is aimed at community youth aged 18 to 35 years.
Applicants must meet one of the accepted academic routes.
You may be considered if you have:
- Grade 12 with at least 40% in English, Mathematics and Physical Science
- N2 with four subjects relevant to the diesel mechanic trade, such as Diesel Mechanic Theory
- NCV Level 3 with at least 40% in Mathematics, not Mathematics Literacy, and relevant trade-specific subjects
Applicants must also be medically fit.
This is important because the programme includes mine and plant exposure. Candidates must be able to meet workplace safety and health requirements.
Successful learners will also be required to complete Mine Health and Safety Induction.
What will learners do during the programme?
Learners will be expected to take part in both training and practical workplace tasks.
This includes learning how to work safely, follow instructions and support technical operations under supervision.
Key responsibilities include:
- Following company health and safety policies
- Maintaining good housekeeping in the workplace
- Following standard operating procedures
- Using task checklists correctly
- Completing required documentation
- Assisting line managers with major and minor tasks
- Preparing daily, weekly and monthly reports when needed
- Taking part in practical mine and plant learning activities
This shows that the programme is about more than repairing machines.
Learners will also develop workplace discipline, safety awareness, reporting habits and professional responsibility.
What type of person is likely to stand out?
The strongest applicants will be those who can show real interest in mechanical work.
Imerys is looking for candidates who are self-motivated, eager to learn and determined to succeed.
A good candidate should be able to follow instructions, work safely and stay committed for the full 36 months.
You may stand out if you show:
- Interest in engines and machinery
- Basic understanding of tools
- Patience with practical learning
- Respect for safety rules
- Good written and verbal communication
- Willingness to learn from experienced workers
- Ability to work in a structured environment
- Strong attendance and timekeeping habits
- A serious attitude toward becoming an artisan
This opportunity is not ideal for someone looking for quick work experience. It is better suited to someone who wants to build a real trade career.
How can applicants make their CV stronger?
Your CV should quickly show that you are interested in diesel mechanics.
Do not only list your school subjects.
Use your CV to show your technical side.
Include details such as:
- Mechanical subjects completed
- Diesel Mechanic Theory, if applicable
- Workshop practice experience
- Tools you have used
- School technical projects
- Vehicle, engine or equipment repair exposure
- Informal mechanical work done at home or in the community
- Safety-related training
- Any practical certificates
- Any assistant experience in a workshop
Even informal experience can support your application when it is presented clearly and honestly.
For example, if you helped repair vehicles, engines, bicycles, machines, farm equipment or workshop tools, mention that experience.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: For this learnership, your CV should prove that you are technically curious. Add a short “Technical Exposure” section and list mechanical subjects, tools, workshop tasks, repairs or hands-on projects. A recruiter should immediately see that diesel mechanics is not a random choice for you.
Which documents should applicants prepare?
Applicants should prepare clear and certified documents before submitting their application.
Useful documents may include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Grade 12 certificate, if applicable
- N2 certificate, if applicable
- NCV Level 3 certificate, if applicable
- Academic record or statement of results
- Proof of residence, if required
- Any technical or workshop-related certificates
Make sure your marks are easy to read.
If you are using Grade 12 results, English, Mathematics and Physical Science must be visible.
If you are using N2 or NCV Level 3 results, make sure the trade-relevant subjects can be clearly identified.
What should candidates check before submitting?
Before sending your application, take a few minutes to check whether your documents actually support the requirements.
Make sure:
- Your contact details are correct
- Your ID copy is clear
- Your academic results are readable
- Your certificates are certified where needed
- Your Mathematics result is visible
- Your technical subjects are easy to find
- Your CV highlights mechanical interest
- You meet the age requirement
- You understand the 36-month commitment
- You are prepared for mine and plant exposure
A strong applicant can lose attention because of poor documents.
Keep everything clean, clear and professional.
Is there a closing date?
The available vacancy details do not display a specific closing date.
Because learnership opportunities can close once enough applications are received, candidates should not delay.
Submit your application as soon as your CV and documents are ready.
How can candidates submit an application?
Applications must be submitted through the official online application portal.
Before submitting, review the requirements carefully and make sure your academic results match the minimum criteria.
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Final Thoughts
The Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership 2026 is a strong opportunity for young people who want to build a practical trade career.
With 36 months of structured training, theoretical learning through Colliery Training College and real exposure at the mine and plant, the programme offers more than short-term workplace experience.
It gives committed learners a chance to start developing the discipline, safety awareness and technical confidence needed in the diesel mechanic field.
For mechanically minded youth who meet the requirements, this could be a valuable step toward becoming a skilled artisan.
