Schaeffler South Africa has opened applications for its Apprenticeship Programme 2026, offering aspiring artisans and technical professionals an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience while completing structured vocational training.

Based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, the apprenticeship programme is designed to equip school leavers and technically inclined candidates with practical industry skills, hands-on training and formal vocational development that can lead to an acknowledged certification.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates who have completed Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science or those who hold N2 qualifications in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering and are looking to build a long-term career within the manufacturing and engineering sector.

About the Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme 2026

The Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme forms part of the company’s commitment to skills development and workforce training.

Through a combination of classroom-based learning and practical workplace experience, apprentices receive structured training designed to prepare them for future careers in technical and industrial environments.

The programme focuses on developing technical competence, workplace readiness and professional growth while exposing candidates to real-world industrial operations.

Successful apprentices will work alongside experienced professionals and gain exposure to industry best practices, modern engineering systems and operational processes.

Apprenticeship Overview

Company: Schaeffler South Africa

Position: Apprentice

Location: Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Employment Type: Full-Time

Programme Type: Apprenticeship / Vocational Training

Job Family: Administration, Services and Support

Work Arrangement: On-Site

Reference Number: 44443

Closing Date: Not Specified

What Is Schaeffler?

Schaeffler is a globally recognised technology company known for its expertise in motion technology, automotive components and industrial solutions.

The company operates in numerous countries worldwide and is committed to innovation, engineering excellence and skills development. Through its apprenticeship programmes, Schaeffler helps develop future technical talent by providing practical training opportunities for young people entering the workforce.

For aspiring technicians and artisans, an apprenticeship with Schaeffler offers valuable exposure to internationally recognised engineering and manufacturing standards.

Purpose of the Apprenticeship Programme

The primary objective of the apprenticeship is to provide structured vocational training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical workplace experience.

Participants will gain industry-relevant skills while working towards obtaining an acknowledged vocational certification.

The programme aims to:

• Develop technical and practical workplace skills
• Enhance employability through hands-on experience
• Provide exposure to real manufacturing and engineering environments
• Prepare candidates for future technical careers
• Support professional and personal development

Key Responsibilities

Successful candidates will participate in various learning and workplace activities throughout the programme.

Responsibilities include:

Vocational Training Participation

Apprentices will participate in structured vocational training programmes designed to develop technical and workplace competencies.

Workplace Learning

Participants will work closely with experienced employees and mentors to gain practical knowledge and hands-on industry experience.

Coursework Completion

Apprentices will be required to complete all prescribed coursework, assessments and learning activities associated with the programme.

Operational Support

Candidates will assist with daily operational tasks and contribute to team activities within their designated departments.

Practical Application of Skills

Participants will apply theoretical concepts in real workplace situations to strengthen their understanding and competence.

Certification Preparation

Apprentices will prepare for evaluations and assessments required to achieve vocational certification.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme 2026, applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:

Option 1: Matric Qualification

Applicants must have completed Matric with:

• Minimum 50% in Mathematics
• Minimum 50% in Physical Science

Option 2: N2 Engineering Qualification

Applicants may also qualify if they possess:

• N2 Electrical Engineering
• N2 Mechanical Engineering

These qualifications provide a strong foundation for technical training and apprenticeship development.

Skills and Personal Attributes Required

Schaeffler is looking for motivated individuals who demonstrate the following qualities:

• Strong willingness to learn
• Positive attitude
• High levels of energy
• Ability to work effectively within a team
• Commitment to personal development
• Strong work ethic
• Ability to follow instructions
• Problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Reliability and professionalism

Candidates who are prepared to work hard and embrace continuous learning will be well positioned to succeed in the programme.

Who Should Apply?

The apprenticeship programme is suitable for:

School Leavers

Young people who have recently completed Matric and wish to pursue a technical career pathway.

Engineering Students

Candidates with N2 qualifications in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering seeking practical industry experience.

Future Artisans

Individuals interested in becoming qualified artisans, technicians or technical specialists.

Career Starters

Applicants looking for their first opportunity to gain meaningful workplace exposure within a leading industrial company.

Benefits of the Apprenticeship Programme

Successful apprentices can expect numerous benefits, including:

Practical Industry Experience

Gain hands-on experience within a professional engineering and manufacturing environment.

Structured Learning

Receive formal training aligned with vocational development standards.

Career Development

Build technical competencies that can support future employment opportunities.

Professional Mentorship

Learn directly from experienced industry professionals.

Workplace Exposure

Develop workplace skills that are highly valued by employers across multiple sectors.

Enhanced Employability

Acquire practical experience that strengthens your CV and future job applications.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare and submit the following documents:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of Matric certificate
• Certified N2 Electrical Engineering certificate (if applicable)
• Certified N2 Mechanical Engineering certificate (if applicable)
• Any additional relevant qualifications or certificates

Ensuring that all supporting documents are complete and up to date can improve the quality of an application.

Employment Equity

Appointments will be made in accordance with Schaeffler’s Employment Equity Plan.

The company remains committed to promoting diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities within its workforce.

Candidates from designated groups are encouraged to apply.

Why Consider a Schaeffler Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to enter the engineering, manufacturing and technical industries.

Unlike purely academic programmes, apprenticeships allow participants to earn practical experience while learning industry-specific skills in real workplace environments.

The Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme offers:

• Exposure to a global engineering company
• Structured vocational development
• Technical workplace training
• Professional mentorship
• Valuable industry experience
• Opportunities for long-term career growth

For candidates passionate about engineering, manufacturing and technical careers, this programme provides a strong foundation for future success.

Application Deadline

The closing date for the Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme 2026 has not been specified.

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.

Early applications are strongly recommended, as recruitment processes may close once sufficient applications have been received.

Final Thoughts

The Schaeffler Apprenticeship Programme 2026 presents an excellent opportunity for South African school leavers and technical candidates to gain valuable workplace experience while developing practical skills in a structured learning environment.

With opportunities for Matric graduates and N2 Engineering candidates, this programme can serve as an important stepping stone towards a rewarding career in engineering, manufacturing and industrial operations.

Candidates who meet the minimum requirements and are eager to learn, grow and contribute within a professional workplace environment should consider applying for this exciting apprenticeship opportunity.