Cummins Field Service Technician Apprenticeship 2026/2027

The role provides exposure to both workshop-based activities and field-service requirements. Apprentices will be expected to follow established procedures, work safely, maintain tools and equipment, complete relevant documentation, and participate in training aligned with the needs of the business.

This can be a valuable opportunity for candidates with relevant NATED engineering qualifications who are looking to strengthen their practical experience and develop a career in mechanical and technical services.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will assist with several workshop and technical activities, including:

• Supporting general workshop operations and assisting technicians with day-to-day activities.
• Cleaning and maintaining work areas to ensure the workshop remains safe, organised, and efficient.
• Assisting with the inspection, disassembly and assembly of engines and power generators.
• Learning and applying Standard Repair Times (SRTs) and established repair procedures.
• Supporting basic repairs and maintenance under appropriate supervision.
• Inspecting components and assisting with the identification and replacement of defective or worn parts.
• Completing documentation relating to work performed and assisting with accurate record keeping.
• Completing work completed forms, time sheets and other relevant documentation.
• Participating in technical training that is aligned with individual skills requirements and business needs.
• Maintaining tools and equipment in a clean and operational condition.
• Following company requirements relating to Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) procedures.
• Reporting problems, incidents, unsafe conditions and other concerns to the relevant supervisor.
• Supporting technicians in troubleshooting, diagnostics, repairs and maintenance activities.

Developing Technical and Mechanical Skills

An important part of this apprenticeship is the development of practical technical knowledge.

The apprentice will be expected to develop an understanding of mechanical systems and apply appropriate repair and maintenance techniques. This includes learning how engines and power-generation equipment operate, how components are inspected, and how faults can be identified and addressed.

The role may also involve working with specialised diagnostic equipment and software. Candidates will be expected to develop the ability to follow troubleshooting procedures, identify potential causes of technical problems and assist with validating completed repairs.

Product Repair and Maintenance

Successful candidates should be able to develop proficiency in the repair and maintenance of mechanical and electrical products.

The role may involve:

• Disassembling and assembling engines or power generators.
• Inspecting mechanical and electrical components.
• Identifying components that require replacement.
• Supporting repairs and preventative maintenance.
• Following established technical procedures.
• Applying safe and appropriate repair techniques.
• Helping to minimise unnecessary repair costs for customers.
• Recording completed work accurately.

The ability to work carefully and follow technical instructions will be important because repairs and maintenance activities must be completed according to established standards.

Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

The position also requires candidates to develop effective diagnostic skills.

The apprentice will be expected to learn how to translate customer complaints and reported equipment problems into appropriate troubleshooting plans. This can include using specialised diagnostic equipment and software to help isolate technical problems.

Candidates will also learn how to:

• Identify potential faults.
• Follow structured troubleshooting processes.
• Use appropriate diagnostic equipment.
• Assist with repairing identified problems.
• Validate completed repairs.
• Document diagnostic findings and repair results.
• Maintain accurate records for historical tracking and payment purposes.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

Health and safety are essential aspects of workshop and field-service work. The apprentice will be expected to comply with applicable Health, Safety and Environmental policies and procedures.

This includes following safe work practices, using tools and equipment correctly, keeping the workplace clean, and reporting incidents or unsafe conditions to the appropriate supervisor.

Candidates should understand the importance of maintaining a safe working environment for themselves, fellow employees, customers and other people who may be present in the workplace or worksite.

Driver’s Licence Requirement

A valid driver’s licence is required for this position.

Candidates must be active drivers with recent and regular driving experience. The successful applicant should also have the confidence and ability to travel independently when required as part of the role.

Because field-service work can involve travelling to customer sites or other locations, applicants should be prepared for the driving and mobility requirements associated with technical service work.

Education and Qualification Requirements

Candidates must meet the specified education and technical qualification requirements.

The vacancy requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) from the South African government school system, commonly known as a current Grade 12 or matric certificate, together with relevant NATED engineering studies.

Applicants must have either of the following qualification combinations:

N6 Mechanical Engineering

An N6 NATED Certificate in Mechanical Engineering with four subjects passed from the following:

• Mathematics
• Mechanotechnics
• Mechanical Drawing and Design
• Power Machines
• Fluid Mechanics
• Physics
• Strength of Materials
• Supervisory Management

N2 or N3 Engineering Studies

Alternatively, candidates may have an N2 or N3 NATED Engineering Studies certificate with subjects passed in:

• Mathematics
• Engineering Science
• Engineering Drawing
• Diesel Trade Theory or Motor Trade Theory

Applicants should carefully compare their qualifications and subjects against the requirements before submitting an application.

Local Community Consideration

As part of its local community development commitments, Cummins may give preference to suitably qualified candidates from local host communities where this is required by project agreements, client requirements, licence conditions or other applicable obligations.

Candidates who meet the qualification requirements and have a connection to the relevant local communities may therefore wish to ensure that their application accurately reflects their relevant information and qualifications.

Who Should Apply?

This apprenticeship opportunity may be relevant to candidates who:

• Have a Grade 12 or matric certificate.
• Hold the required NATED Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Studies qualifications.
• Have relevant subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering Science, Engineering Drawing, Diesel Trade Theory or Mechanical Engineering subjects.
• Are interested in engine maintenance and repair.
• Want to develop practical mechanical and technical skills.
• Are willing to learn from experienced technicians.
• Can follow technical instructions and safety procedures.
• Have good problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Hold a valid driver’s licence.
• Are willing to travel independently when required.
• Are interested in developing a career in workshop and field-service operations.

Applicants should ensure that they meet the stated educational requirements, particularly the specified NATED engineering subjects, and have a valid driver’s licence before applying. They should also ensure that their CV accurately reflects their qualifications, technical subjects, practical abilities and any relevant experience or training.

Apply for the Apprenticeship intake