Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) Millwright Apprenticeship 2026
The Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) invites motivated and technically inclined learners to apply for its Millwright Apprenticeship 2026 intake. This programme is ideal for unemployed South African youth who want to launch a career as skilled maintenance artisans in heavy industry.
RBCT is one of South Africa’s major coal export terminals and places a strong emphasis on skills development, employment equity, and workplace training aligned with industry needs.
What Is a Millwright Apprenticeship?
A Millwright is a technical artisan who installs, maintains, services, and repairs industrial mechanical equipment, driven systems, and production machinery. Millwrights are multi-skilled workers with both mechanical and electrical knowledge — making them crucial in industrial facilities, mining, ports, and manufacturing.
The RBCT Millwright Apprenticeship is a structured training programme that blends classroom learning with hands-on workplace experience under the supervision of qualified artisans.
Minimum Qualifications
To be eligible for the Richards Bay Coal Terminal Millwright Apprenticeship 2026, you must meet the following minimum academic requirements:
✅ Grade 12 / Matric certificate (or equivalent)
✅ Mathematics and Physical Science subjects passed (strong performance preferred)
✅ N2–N3 Engineering Studies or relevant trade-related qualification will be an added advantage
Strong results in technical subjects such as Engineering Graphics & Design, Mechanical Technology, or Electrical Technology are beneficial.
General Requirements
Most employers offering Millwright apprenticeships, including industrial programmes across South Africa, typically expect:
✔ South African citizenship
✔ Applicants to be unemployed and seeking career development
✔ Good communication skills and willingness to learn
✔ Physically fit for workshop and mechanical tasks
✔ Compliance with any additional company or SETA requirements
Note: Specific RBCT application closing dates, documentation, and selection processes are announced when intake opens, so check the official careers portal frequently.
Training and Skills Development
During the apprenticeship, learners should expect to receive training in:
🔹 Mechanical system maintenance and fault finding
🔹 Installation and alignment of industrial equipment
🔹 Reading technical drawings and maintenance manuals
🔹 Basic electrical work and control systems
🔹 Workshop safety and professional practices
🔹 Workplace assessments and progress reporting
Training may be conducted in collaboration with accredited training providers or SETA-linked institutions to ensure the apprenticeship meets national artisan training standards.
Location
The apprenticeship is based at:
Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT)
Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
RBCT is among South Africa’s leading logistics and export facilities, and apprentices will gain real industrial exposure on site.
Why Apply for the Millwright Apprenticeship?
This type of apprenticeship is a stepping stone to a rewarding technical career with strong future prospects:
🟢 Develop nationally recognised artisan skills
🟢 Gain hands-on mechanical and electrical experience
🟢 Work in one of South Africa’s major industrial hubs
🟢 Improve employability within mining, manufacturing and heavy industry
🟢 Network with experienced technicians and mentors
Demand for skilled millwrights and maintenance artisans continues to grow in industrial sectors nationwide.
Required Documents (Typical)
When you apply, be ready to include:
📍 Certified copy of ID document
📍 Certified copy of Matric certificate (or equivalent)
📍 Certified copies of N2/N3 Engineering or related technical results
📍 Updated CV
📍 Contact information and proof of residence
Applications without the correct supporting documents may not be considered.
Application & Closing Dates
Closing date for applications: February 19, 2026 (for this intake)
Applications must be submitted before the closing date. Ensure your documents and form are complete to avoid disqualification.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
To stand out in your application:
🔹 Highlight your technical subjects and N-level results
🔹 Include any workshop or mechanical exposure you have
🔹 Write a clear personal summary explaining your interest in millwrighting
🔹 Prepare for technical assessments and interviews
Employers often shortlist based on academic results, technical ability, and motivation to pursue a trade career.
After the Apprenticeship
Once completed, apprentices may:
✔ Be eligible to write trade tests with the QCTO/NAMB for artisan status
✔ Gain qualification as a Millwright artisan
✔ Look for employment with industrial employers, maintenance teams, mining operations, engineering firms and more
✔ Continue professional development within mechanical and electrical fields
The apprenticeship journey builds practical experience and opens up opportunities across diverse sectors.
Summary
The Richards Bay Coal Terminal Millwright Apprenticeship 2026 provides a solid pathway for South African youth to launch a career as a skilled industrial artisan. With practical and theoretical training, industry exposure, and national qualification potential, this programme supports personal and professional growth in a high-demand technical trade.
