Apprentice Mechanical - Electrical Bus Technician

Durban, South Africa
Apprentice Mechanical - Electrical Bus Technician
Company
Arriva Group
Location
Maidstone, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Job type
Full-time
Posted
21 days ago
Via
via LinkedIn
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Job description
At Arriva, our Engineering Teams keep our buses moving and the communities we serve connected. Whether that's getting children to school or commuters to work. As an Apprentice Bus Technician, you will be trained to inspect, diagnose, repair and test equipment and systems on buses from different manufacturers. The work ranges from performing simple tasks, like replacing a part to solving complex faults often using diagnostic equipment.The tasks faced by a technician are constantly changing as vehicles become more complex with the introduction of new technologies and differing fuel types. At Arriva, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and experience across a range of vehicles.You will be based at our Maidstone depot, working alongside an experienced team who will support and mentor you along the way.About The ApprenticeshipThis 4-year programme is working towards a Bus and Coach Technician Level 3 qualification with a specialism in Mech/Elec (mechanical / electrical). The course runs with 5-day training blocks every 6-weeks which take place at our partner’s state-of-the-art workshop in Wolverhampton. The course will give you skills and experience to give you the required level of competence to become a skilled Bus Engineer, including:How to inspect, diagnose and record defects to the applicable standardDiagnostic principles based on logical, analytical interpretation leading to solving problemsEmerging bus and coach technologies and the impact they will have on the knowledge and skills technicians will require in the futureCurrent Health and Safety requirements and workshop practicesHow to carry out high quality road worthiness inspections specific to their tradeHow the business works from an operational perspective and where their role fits within the business and how they contribute to the success of the organisationCustomer expectations delivering a safe, clean, reliable serviceThe requirements of attending and assessing roadside incidentsAbout YouThis is a programme designed for people at every stage in life. It could be your first venture into work after finishing school, or the exciting career move you’ve been looking for. Whatever your motivation, we’re looking for those with an inquisitive mindset who love solving problems and don’t mind getting their hands dirty. You will need to have GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent) at Grace C / Level 3 as a minimum.As an apprentice with us the starting salary will is £8.00 per hour in your first year if you are under 18, 10.85 if you are 18 to 20 or £12.71 if you are 21 and over rising in line with national minimum wage and progression.Together, we strive to make travelling by bus the best choice for everyone. With our doors open to all, you’ll have the chance to build a fulfilling career with us, one where you can explore your passions, aspirations and realise your full potential. As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to earn a competitive salary, and we'll be there to support you every step of the way.Join us and be at the forefront of revolutionising bus travel. You'll be a vital part of something big – by connecting communities, promoting sustainable travel, and contributing to a better tomorrow. You'll also gain invaluable skills and knowledge that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Electrician Jobs in South Africa

Q
What is the minimum wage for Electrician Jobs in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Minimum Wage for electricians in South Africa is R30.45 per hour as of 1 March 2026, equating to R5,478 per month for a 45-hour week. Electricians must receive at least 1.5 times this rate for overtime beyond 45 hours weekly. This applies under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act sectoral determinations.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
What qualifications and experience are required for electrician jobs in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, applicants need an NQF Level 4 Electrical Engineering qualification plus a minimum of 3 years registered apprenticeship completed by 2026. A valid Wireman’s Licence from the Department is mandatory for installation work. No exceptions apply for unregistered candidates in formal employment.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
What are the standard working hours and annual leave for electricians in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, electricians work a maximum of 45 hours per week with no more than 9 hours daily under the BCEA as of 2026. They receive 21 consecutive days of paid annual leave after 12 months of service plus 10 public holidays. Sick leave totals 30 days over 3 years.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
How are electricians taxed on salaries in South Africa for the 2026 tax year?
As per SARS, electricians earning R237,101 to R370,500 annually pay 26% tax on income above R237,100 with rebates of R17,235 for under-65s as of the 2026/27 year. Monthly PAYE deductions apply automatically for salaries above R95,750 per year. UIF contributions remain at 1% of salary up to R17,712 monthly.
Source: South African Revenue Service