Are you a young South African looking to build a successful technical career in mining? The Exxaro Belfast Coal Engineering Learnerships 2027 (Section 18.2) present a valuable opportunity to gain practical workplace experience and formal trade qualifications. Below is everything you need to know about the Belfast Coal Engineering Learnership program, including minimum requirements, documents needed, step-by-step online application instructions, stipend estimates, and key dates.
What Should You Know Before You Start?
Before submitting your application form, consider the following key aspects:
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Local Preference: Preference is given to applicants residing within the eMakhazeni Local Municipality (Belfast, eNtokozweni/Machadodorp, Emgwenya/Waterval Boven, and Dullstroom) and surrounding Mpumalanga communities.
- Medical & Security Screening: Shortlisted candidates must pass a compulsory underground medical fitness assessment and background checks conducted by Exxaro.
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No Application Fees: Exxaro does not charge any application or placement fees. Beware of scams asking for money to secure a learnership slot.
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Accommodation: No housing or relocation allowances are provided; successful candidates must handle their own transport and daily living arrangements in or near Belfast.
What Are the Key Details? (Location, Duration & Salary Estimates)
- Employer / Business Unit: Exxaro Resources – Belfast Coal
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Location: Belfast, eMakhazeni, Mpumalanga
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Programme Type: Section 18.2 Engineering Learnership / Apprenticeship (Trades include Electrical, Fitting & Machining, and Diesel Mechanic)
- Duration: 12 to 36 months (depending on trade phase progression)
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Estimated Salary / Monthly Stipend: While Exxaro does not disclose exact stipend amounts in public notices, mining sector engineering learnership stipends in South Africa typically range between R6,500 and R10,500 per month, depending on your entry N-qualification level.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for consideration for an engineering learnership at Exxaro Belfast Coal, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid RSA Identity Document.
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Must be unemployed and generally under 35 years of age.
- Educational Qualifications (One of the following):
- Grade 12 / Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science passed.
- NCV Level 4 in Engineering Studies.
- N2, N3, or higher (N4–N6) Technical Certificate with 4 passed subjects relevant to the trade (e.g., Trade Theory, Engineering Science, Mathematics, Industrial Electronics, or Engineering Drawing).
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Ability to pass psychometric tests and occupational health assessments.
Which Documents Should You Prepare First?
Have clear, scanned PDF copies of these documents ready before opening the online application portal:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) including your physical home address, phone number, and active email address.
- Certified Copy of Identity Document (not older than 3 months).
- Certified Copies of Qualifications: Grade 12 Certificate, NCV Level 4, or N2/N3 Statement of Results showing all passed subjects.
- Proof of Residence: Letter from a local ward councilor or utility bill confirming residence within eMakhazeni / Belfast local municipality.
How Do You Submit Through the Online Form?
Applicants should understand that progressing through the selection process does not guarantee placement in the learnership.
Interested applicants must submit their applications by email.
Application email: Belfast.SoftSkills@exxaro.com
Closing Date
Applications for the Exxaro Belfast Coal Section 18.2 Engineering Learnership intake close on 17 November 2026. Late applications submitted after the deadline will not be processed.
If you do not receive feedback within 60 days following the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I join with Matric only?
Yes, you can apply if your Grade 12 / Matric pass includes pure Mathematics and Physical Science. However, candidates with technical N-courses (N2/N3) or NCV Level 4 in engineering trades hold a strong advantage for practical trade selections.
Do I need prior mining work experience to apply?
No, prior workplace experience is not compulsory. Learnerships are entry-level training programmes designed specifically for unemployed youth to gain practical hands-on skills in a working mine environment.
Are applicants from outside Mpumalanga accepted?
While open to all qualifying South Africans, preference is strictly given to candidates living in Belfast and the surrounding eMakhazeni municipal areas due to community development agreements.
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