Junior Welder Apprenticeship
Company
WhatJobs Direct
Location
Polokwane
Posted
18 days ago
Via
WhatJobs
Apply On
Job Description
Our client, a leading fabrication and manufacturing company, is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join their team as Junior Welders through a comprehensive apprenticeship program. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals passionate about metalworking and looking to build a rewarding career in a skilled trade. The apprenticeship will combine hands-on training with theoretical instruction, providing you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel as a certified welder.
What You Will Learn: Fundamentals of Welding: Master the principles of various welding processes, including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG). Safety Procedures: Understand and strictly adhere to all workplace safety regulations, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of tools and materials. Blueprint Reading: Learn to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics to understand project specifications and requirements. Metal Preparation: Acquire skills in preparing metal surfaces for welding, including cleaning, grinding, and cutting. Welding Techniques: Develop proficiency in executing precise and strong welds on a variety of metals and thicknesses, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic quality. Weld Inspection: Gain knowledge of basic weld inspection techniques to identify and correct defects. Tool and Equipment Operation: Become proficient in operating various welding machines, plasma cutters, grinders, and other fabrication equipment. Teamwork and Communication: Develop effective communication and collaboration skills to work efficiently within a workshop environment. Problem-Solving: Learn to identify and troubleshoot common welding issues. Program Structure: This apprenticeship program is designed to provide a blended learning experience, incorporating both practical on-the-job training at our workshop facilities and structured theoretical sessions. Apprentices will be assigned experienced mentors who will provide direct supervision, guidance, and feedback throughout the program. The program duration is typically (Duration, e.g., 2-3 years), leading to a recognized trade qualification upon successful completion. A hybrid work arrangement may be expected, combining on-site training and workshop activities with some remote study or theoretical coursework. Ideal Candidate Profile: A strong interest in welding, fabrication, and working with metal. Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Ability to understand and follow instructions, both written and verbal. A commitment to learning and continuous improvement. Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic. Basic understanding of mathematics and physics is advantageous. Must be physically fit and able to perform the manual tasks required of the role. A desire to work towards a professional qualification and a stable career. Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa. This is a hands-on apprenticeship based in the vicinity of Polokwane, Limpopo , with a hybrid component to support your learning journey. If you are eager to learn a valuable trade and kick-start your career in a dynamic industry, apply today!
What You Will Learn: Fundamentals of Welding: Master the principles of various welding processes, including SMAW (Stick), GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG). Safety Procedures: Understand and strictly adhere to all workplace safety regulations, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of tools and materials. Blueprint Reading: Learn to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics to understand project specifications and requirements. Metal Preparation: Acquire skills in preparing metal surfaces for welding, including cleaning, grinding, and cutting. Welding Techniques: Develop proficiency in executing precise and strong welds on a variety of metals and thicknesses, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic quality. Weld Inspection: Gain knowledge of basic weld inspection techniques to identify and correct defects. Tool and Equipment Operation: Become proficient in operating various welding machines, plasma cutters, grinders, and other fabrication equipment. Teamwork and Communication: Develop effective communication and collaboration skills to work efficiently within a workshop environment. Problem-Solving: Learn to identify and troubleshoot common welding issues. Program Structure: This apprenticeship program is designed to provide a blended learning experience, incorporating both practical on-the-job training at our workshop facilities and structured theoretical sessions. Apprentices will be assigned experienced mentors who will provide direct supervision, guidance, and feedback throughout the program. The program duration is typically (Duration, e.g., 2-3 years), leading to a recognized trade qualification upon successful completion. A hybrid work arrangement may be expected, combining on-site training and workshop activities with some remote study or theoretical coursework. Ideal Candidate Profile: A strong interest in welding, fabrication, and working with metal. Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Ability to understand and follow instructions, both written and verbal. A commitment to learning and continuous improvement. Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic. Basic understanding of mathematics and physics is advantageous. Must be physically fit and able to perform the manual tasks required of the role. A desire to work towards a professional qualification and a stable career. Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa. This is a hands-on apprenticeship based in the vicinity of Polokwane, Limpopo , with a hybrid component to support your learning journey. If you are eager to learn a valuable trade and kick-start your career in a dynamic industry, apply today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Welder Jobs
What is the 2026 national minimum wage for welders in South Africa?
The Department of Employment and Labour sets the national minimum wage at R28.79 per hour from 1 March 2026 for all sectors including welding. Welders working more than 45 hours per week must receive 1.5 times this rate for overtime. Employers must display the wage schedule at every workplace.
Which trade certificate is required to legally work as a welder in South Africa in 2026?
Welders must hold a QCTO-registered occupational certificate in welding at NQF Level 4 obtained after completing a minimum 3-year apprenticeship and passing the trade test at an accredited centre. The certificate number must be verifiable on the QCTO database before any employer can hire the welder.
How many hours per week and days of annual leave apply to welder contracts in 2026?
Welders are limited to 45 ordinary hours per week and 8 hours per day under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. They are entitled to 21 consecutive days of paid annual leave after every 12 months of employment, calculated from the date of engagement.
What documents must South African welders submit when applying for formal employment in 2026?
Applicants must provide a valid South African ID, QCTO trade certificate, valid bank account details, and proof of UIF registration number. Employers are required to verify the trade certificate directly with the QCTO before issuing an employment contract.
