If you studied Chemical Engineering and you are still waiting for your first real break, this opportunity could change that. Feltex Automotive is looking for a Graduate Trainee Chemical Engineer to join their team in 2026. The application closes on 14 April 2026, so you need to act now.
What Is This Opportunity?
Feltex Automotive is offering a Graduate Trainee Chemical Engineer position on a temporary graduate trainee contract. The role is based at their Foam site in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. It sits inside the Engineering department within the Foam business unit.
This is not a desk job or a shadowing programme. You will work directly in a real manufacturing environment. You will be involved in production, quality control, and safety practices from the start.
For many Chemical Engineering graduates, that kind of hands-on exposure is exactly what has been missing.
Who Can Apply?
Feltex is looking for a recent graduate who is motivated and pays close attention to detail. You must meet the following requirements to be considered.
- A completed National Diploma in Chemical Engineering or an equivalent qualification
- Strong academic performance
- Good English skills — reading, writing, speaking, and listening
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Careful attention to detail
- Full proficiency in MS Office, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
Many applicants worry that they do not have enough experience. That is completely normal at this stage. This role is designed for people who are just starting out. What matters most is your qualification, your attitude, and your willingness to learn.
Please note that appointments will be made in line with the company’s diversity targets.
What Will You Actually Do in This Role?
Your daily responsibilities will fall across three main areas: Production, Quality, and Safety.
Production
- Monitor processing parameters on the production floor
- Help document and issue engineering change reports
- Set up and maintain production line standards
- Monitor rejects and scrap levels
- Assist the Production Controller during plant trials
- Make sure all checklists are completed before production starts
Quality
- Support technical development work on new products and formulations
- Test incoming raw materials using the FIFO system before they are used on the plant
- Record and report production measurement results on SharePoint
- Help maintain the quality standards required for production
Safety
- Help ensure safe working conditions across the site
- Apply and support safe working practices every day
This range of duties gives you a broad view of how a manufacturing operation actually runs. That is rare for a first role, and it is worth taking seriously.
What Do You Gain From This Role?
Beyond the experience itself, this position helps you build skills that future employers look for. After spending time in this role, you will have developed real competence in several important areas.
- Process monitoring on a live production floor
- Technical reporting and documentation
- Quality control awareness and raw material testing
- Plant trial support and production line standards
- Communication and teamwork inside a manufacturing team
- Attention to detail under operational pressure
- Workplace safety awareness and practice
These are not small additions to your CV. They are the building blocks that many graduate engineers spend years trying to collect. Having them early gives you a real advantage when applying for permanent roles later on.
This kind of exposure can also help you figure out where you want to grow. Whether that is in process engineering, quality assurance, product development, or plant operations, you will leave this role with a clearer direction.
How to Apply
Follow these steps carefully to submit your application before the deadline.
- Visit the official Feltex Automotive online application portal
- Create or log in to your candidate profile on the portal
- Complete all sections of the online application form fully and accurately
- Upload your CV and any supporting documents
- Submit your application before 14 April 2026
Do not wait until the last day. Technical issues, incomplete profiles, or missing documents can cost you the opportunity. Give yourself enough time to review everything before you submit.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Competition for graduate trainee roles can be tough. Many applicants have similar qualifications. Here is how you can make your application stand out.
Update your CV before you apply.
Make sure your CV clearly shows your National Diploma in Chemical Engineering or equivalent qualification. Include your academic results. List any lab work, plant visits, production exposure, or engineering projects you completed during your studies.
Do not undersell your academic projects.
If you worked on process improvement assignments, material testing, plant simulations, or technical reports during your studies, include them. Graduate recruiters look for signs that you can connect theory to real operations. Your academic work is evidence of that.
Show your MS Office skills clearly.
Feltex specifically asks for proficiency in Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. If you used any of these tools during your studies or in any other context, mention it.
Keep your CV clean and easy to read.
A well-organised CV makes a strong first impression, especially for entry-level applicants. Use clear headings, bullet points, and simple language. Avoid clutter.
Write a focused cover letter if the portal allows it.
A short, honest cover letter that explains why you want this specific role and what you can bring to the team can help your application feel more personal and intentional.
Final Thoughts
The Feltex Automotive Graduate Trainee Chemical Engineer role in Durban is a real opportunity to step into manufacturing and start building the experience your career needs. You will not just be observing. You will be contributing to production, quality, and safety inside a working industrial environment.
If you have your National Diploma in Chemical Engineering and you are ready to turn your qualification into something practical, this is the kind of role worth applying for. The closing date is 14 April 2026. Start preparing your application today and give yourself the best possible chance.