Need a job right now? The Sasol and Plant Design and Project Services Welding Apprenticeships 2026 give unemployed South Africans a chance to learn a trade that is in demand across mining, petrochemicals, construction and heavy engineering.
What the opportunity is
This is a paid welding apprenticeship that runs under Sasol and its partner Plant Design and Project Services (PDPS). The programme offers hands‑on training, workplace exposure and a pathway to an artisan career in welding, metalwork and engineering. Applications close on 17 July 2026.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet the following:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Live in one of these areas: Govan Mbeki Municipality, Ekandustria Region 7, City of Tshwane, Dark City, Ekangala, Rethabiseng or Zithobeni.
- Be available for residential training as required.
- Fit one of the qualification pathways below.
Qualification pathways
Grade 12 – must have English (read/write), Pure Mathematics and Physical Science. Subjects such as Engineering Graphic Design, Welding or Platers Theory are an advantage. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
N3 Engineering – must have English, Engineering Mathematics N3 and Engineering Science N3. A trade‑related Theory Subject N3 is useful.
National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Level 4 – must have English (or First Additional Language), Mathematics Level 4 (Pure), Engineering Science Level 4, Engineering Processes Level 4, Professional Engineering Practice Level 4, Applied Engineering Technology Level 4 and a trade‑related Theory Subject. Welding or Platers Theory is compulsory.
What you will gain
- Practical welding skills taught on real projects.
- Understanding of safety, measurements, tools and material handling.
- Experience that can lead to roles such as Qualified Welder, Fabricator, Boilermaker, Maintenance Technician, Welding Inspector or Supervisor.
- Potential for further certification and higher‑pay positions after the apprenticeship.
How to apply – step by step
- Prepare certified copies of all required documents:
- Updated CV
- South African ID
- Qualifications and Grade 12/N3/NCV results
- Driver’s licence (if you have one)
- Recent municipal water or electricity bill showing your residential address
- If the utility bill is not in your name, add:
- Affidavit from you and/or your landlord
- SAPS confirmation of residence duration
- SARS confirmation letter with the same address
- Bank statement showing the address
- Write a short email:
- Subject: 2026 Welding Apprenticeship
- Body: Include full name, area of residence, qualification pathway, contact number and a brief statement of interest.
- Attach all certified documents.
- Send the email to welderapprentices2026@pdps.co.za and quote the reference number 2026 Welding Apprenticeship.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every attachment is clear and correctly certified.
- Make sure your proof‑of‑residence matches one of the approved areas.
- Use the exact reference number in the subject line.
- Submit before the deadline – late applications are not considered.
- Proofread your email for spelling and contact details.
Next steps
If you are shortlisted you will be contacted for an interview. You should hear back within two weeks after 17 July 2026. If you do not receive a response, assume the application was unsuccessful and consider re‑applying next year.
Take this chance to start a stable, skilled career in welding. Gather your documents, follow the steps carefully, and send your application before the deadline.