About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company operating in 35 countries worldwide. The company produces iron ore, aluminium, copper, critical minerals, and other essential materials required for the global energy transition and economic development.
With over 150 years of mining experience, Rio Tinto continues to focus on innovation, sustainability, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence. The company is committed to finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs while maintaining high environmental, social, and governance standards.
Rio Tinto also prioritises diversity, inclusion, skills development, and community empowerment. The company welcomes applications from women, LGBTQIA+ communities, people living with disabilities, and individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
2026 Artisan Learnership Programme (Occupationally Directed Qualification Trades)
Rio Tinto is inviting applications for its 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme, a structured occupationally directed training initiative designed to equip unemployed South African youth with technical and practical trade skills. The programme leads to a nationally recognised trade qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Successful learners will receive a Trade Certificate issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) upon completion of the programme. The learnership combines theoretical studies, practical training, and workplace learning to ensure learners gain the skills and experience required within the engineering and mining industries.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in building a long-term career in technical trades and industrial maintenance.
Available Occupational Trade Certificates
The 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme offers training opportunities in the following trades:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boiler Maker
- Millwright
- Refractory Mason
- Electrician
- Mechanical Fitter
- Instrumentation
These trades are essential within the mining, engineering, and manufacturing sectors, providing learners with valuable technical expertise and future career opportunities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the programme:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed youth
- Successfully completed Grade 12/Matric
- Must have Mathematics (Core Mathematics) and Physical Science or Technical Matric subjects
- Trade-related qualification
- Valid South African driver’s license (minimum Code B)
- Must not currently be registered on an active SETA-funded Learnership or Apprenticeship
- Must reside within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal
Candidates who meet these requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following certified supporting documents with their application:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of trade qualification
- Certified copy of South African ID document
- Certified copy of valid South African driver’s license
- Certified proof of residence or domicile address
- Affidavit confirming that the applicant is not currently participating in a SETA-funded learning programme
Incomplete applications or missing documentation may result in disqualification from the recruitment process.
Selection Process
Acceptance into the 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme is dependent on successful completion of interviews and assessments. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo further screening and evaluation processes before final selection.
This programme provides learners with practical industry exposure, technical development, and workplace experience within one of the world’s leading mining and materials companies.
Why Apply for the Rio Tinto Artisan Learnership Programme?
The programme offers candidates the opportunity to gain accredited trade qualifications while developing practical workplace experience in a professional environment.
Benefits of the programme include:
- Accredited occupational trade qualification
- Practical workplace experience
- Technical and theoretical training
- Career development opportunities
- Exposure to the mining and engineering industry
- Opportunity to work within a globally recognised company
This learnership can provide an excellent pathway into long-term technical careers in South Africa’s mining, engineering, and industrial sectors.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should ensure that all required documents are certified and submitted before the application closing date of 29 May 2026.
Applications can be submitted through the official Rio Tinto careers website:
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all information provided is accurate and complete to improve their chances of being considered for the programme.
