KONE Elevators Apprentice Programme – Mechanical/Electrical (N2 / N3)

The KONE Elevators Apprentice Programme offers a valuable opportunity for technically minded individuals who want to build a strong career in the mechanical and electrical engineering environment. KONE is globally recognized for its expertise in elevators, escalators, and automatic building doors, and this apprenticeship provides structured training combined with practical workplace experience.

This programme is ideal for candidates who have completed their N2 or N3 qualifications and are looking to gain hands-on industry exposure while developing technical and professional skills in a high-demand field.

About the Apprenticeship

The KONE Elevators Apprenticeship is designed to equip learners with the practical knowledge and technical competencies required to install, maintain, and repair vertical transportation systems such as elevators and escalators. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced technicians and engineers while also participating in formal learning components aligned with industry standards.

Throughout the programme, apprentices are introduced to real working environments where safety, precision, and teamwork are essential. This ensures that learners graduate with both theoretical understanding and real-world experience.

Fields Offered

The apprenticeship focuses on two main technical streams:

1. Mechanical Engineering
Apprentices in the mechanical field gain experience in the mechanical components of elevator and escalator systems. This includes:

• Understanding mechanical drive systems
• Working with gears, motors, and braking systems
• Installation of elevator mechanical parts
• Maintenance and fault diagnosis of mechanical equipment
• Reading and interpreting mechanical drawings

This field suits individuals who enjoy working with machinery, tools, and moving systems.

2. Electrical Engineering
The electrical stream focuses on the electrical and electronic systems that control elevator operations. Training includes:

• Elevator control systems and wiring
• Electrical fault finding and troubleshooting
• Installation of electrical panels and circuits
• Understanding sensors and safety devices
• Working with low- and medium-voltage systems

This field is ideal for candidates who are interested in circuits, wiring, automation, and electronic controls.

Both streams emphasize safety procedures, quality workmanship, and adherence to engineering standards.

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for the KONE Elevators Apprentice Programme, applicants typically need to meet the following academic requirements:

• A completed N2 or N3 qualification in one of the following:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Electromechanical Engineering
• Relevant technical subjects such as:
  • Mathematics
  • Engineering Science
  • Industrial Electronics
  • Electrical Trade Theory
  • Fitting and Machining

These subjects provide the foundational knowledge necessary for success in the programme.

Additional Requirements

Beyond academic qualifications, successful candidates usually demonstrate:

• Strong interest in technical and engineering work
• Good problem-solving skills
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Willingness to follow strict safety procedures
• Physical fitness suitable for technical fieldwork
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Good communication skills

A positive attitude and eagerness to learn are highly valued, as apprentices are expected to grow into fully qualified technicians over time.

Skills You Will Develop

During the apprenticeship, learners develop a wide range of technical and workplace skills, including:

• Mechanical and electrical fault finding
• Preventative maintenance techniques
• Equipment installation and testing
• Use of engineering tools and diagnostic instruments
• Understanding of safety regulations and compliance standards
• Time management and professional responsibility

These skills are not only valuable within the elevator and escalator industry but are also transferable to other areas of engineering and technical maintenance.

Career Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, candidates may qualify to work as elevator or escalator technicians, maintenance specialists, or installation technicians. With experience, further career growth can lead to supervisory, inspection, or technical specialist roles within the vertical transportation industry.

The demand for skilled elevator and escalator technicians remains strong due to ongoing urban development and the need for reliable building transport systems.

Why Choose This Apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship offers more than just training — it provides a pathway into a specialized engineering field with long-term career prospects. Learners benefit from structured mentorship, exposure to advanced technology, and the opportunity to work on equipment that plays a critical role in modern infrastructure.

📧 Recruitment / Apprenticeship Enquiries:
➡️ konesa@kone.com (KONE Elevators South Africa)

📞 KONE South Africa Customer & HR Contact:
📱 +27 11 035 1800 (Customer service – may help redirect your query)

🔗 Apply here:
👉 Apply to KONE Careers / Apprentice & Jobs Portal (KONE South Africa)