About the Millwright Trade
A Millwright is a qualified artisan responsible for installing, maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting industrial machinery and equipment. Millwrights work across various sectors including manufacturing, food production, engineering, mining, and heavy industry.
The role involves both mechanical and electrical work, making it one of the most versatile and in-demand engineering trades in South Africa. Millwrights are trained to work with motors, pumps, conveyors, automated systems, electrical panels, hydraulic equipment, and industrial machinery.
This apprenticeship programme provides the technical foundation and practical experience required to build a long-term career in engineering and industrial maintenance.
Minimum Requirements
Applications are open to South African citizens from previously disadvantaged groups in line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998.
To qualify for this apprenticeship opportunity, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:
Matric / Senior Certificate Requirements
Applicants must have completed Grade 12 with:
- English passed with a minimum of 50%
- Mathematics passed with a minimum of 40%
Please note that Mathematics Literacy will not be accepted. Applicants must have completed Pure Mathematics.
National N3 Certificate Requirements
Candidates must also possess a National N3 Certificate in Engineering Studies, including the following subjects:
- Engineering Science
- Mathematics
- Trade Theory subjects such as:
- Electro Techniques
- Mechano Techniques
- Electrical Technology
- Additional trade-related technical subjects such as:
- Technical Drawings
- Industrial Electronics
All N3 subjects must be passed with a minimum of 50%.
Applicants who meet the minimum requirements and demonstrate a strong interest in engineering and technical trades are encouraged to apply.
What the Apprenticeship Fund Covers
Successful candidates selected for the Wilmar Apprenticeship Fund will receive comprehensive support throughout the programme. The fund is designed to assist apprentices with both training and workplace requirements.
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of R4 434.00
- Three additional competency-based stipend adjustments during the programme
- Institutional and technical training costs covered
- Trade toolkit provided
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Meals provided while on training or at work
The apprenticeship programme offers valuable career development opportunities while allowing apprentices to gain practical industry experience in a structured learning environment.
Skills and Attributes Required
Wilmar SA is looking for candidates who are:
- Passionate about engineering and technical work
- Willing to learn and develop practical skills
- Safety conscious and responsible
- Able to work independently and within a team
- Good problem-solvers with strong attention to detail
- Physically fit and capable of working in industrial environments
- Committed to completing the full apprenticeship programme
Strong communication skills, discipline, and a positive work ethic will be advantageous during the selection process.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit the following supporting documents with their application:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID document
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate
- Certified academic transcripts or statements of results showing subject marks
Incomplete applications or applications missing supporting documentation may not be considered.
Pre-Employment Screening and Verification
Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo several pre-employment assessments and verification processes before final selection.
These may include:
- Safety medical assessments
- Criminal background checks
- Qualification verification checks
- Reference checks
Only candidates who successfully meet all verification and screening requirements will be considered for final placement within the apprenticeship programme.
Career Opportunities After Qualification
Completing a Millwright apprenticeship can open doors to a variety of career opportunities within the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Qualified Millwrights are in demand across industries such as:
- Manufacturing
- Food and beverage production
- Mining
- Packaging
- Industrial processing plants
- Engineering maintenance services
Qualified artisans often progress into supervisory, specialist technical, or maintenance management positions after gaining industry experience.
This apprenticeship therefore provides an excellent starting point for candidates seeking long-term career growth in the engineering field.
POPIA Disclaimer
In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), all personal information submitted during the recruitment process will be treated as strictly confidential and used only for recruitment and selection purposes.
By applying for this apprenticeship opportunity, applicants consent to the processing and storage of their personal information for employment assessment purposes.
If an application is unsuccessful, personal information will be securely retained for a limited period and disposed of according to applicable data retention policies and legal requirements.
Important Information
Applicants who do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Interested candidates who meet all minimum requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 19 August 2026.
Start your engineering career with one of South Africa’s leading apprenticeship opportunities and gain the skills needed to become a qualified Millwright.



