Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership Programme 2026
For manSouth Africa’s mining industry continues to rely on skilled artisans to maintain and repair the heavy machinery that keeps operations running. From haul trucks and loaders to drilling equipment and earthmoving machines, diesel mechanics play a vital role in ensuring productivity, safety, and operational efficiency across mining sites.
For many young people who are passionate about mechanics and engineering, finding a pathway into the industry can be difficult without practical experience. The Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership Programme 2026 has been designed to help bridge that gap by providing unemployed youth with structured technical training, workplace exposure, and the opportunity to work towards a nationally recognised qualification.
This learnership offers a combination of classroom-based learning and practical on-the-job experience, allowing participants to develop the skills required to pursue a long-term career as a qualified diesel mechanic within the mining and heavy equipment sectors.
About the Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership Programme
The Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership is a structured 36-month training programme aimed at developing future artisans for the mining industry.
The programme is delivered in partnership with the Colliery Training College, an MQA-accredited training institution that specialises in artisan development and mining-related technical training. Successful candidates will complete both theoretical and practical training components, ensuring they gain the technical knowledge and workplace experience required to progress in the diesel mechanic trade.
Learners will receive practical exposure at the mine and processing plant while attending formal technical training designed to build competence in diesel engine maintenance, fault diagnosis, repairs, preventative maintenance, and safety procedures.
The programme ultimately aims to equip learners with the skills and experience needed to pursue artisan opportunities within South Africa’s mining, construction, transport, and industrial sectors.
What Does a Diesel Mechanic Do?
Diesel mechanics are responsible for maintaining, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing diesel-powered machinery and equipment.
In mining environments, this can include:
- Haul trucks
- Loaders
- Excavators
- Drill rigs
- Forklifts
- Crushers
- Conveyors
- Earthmoving equipment
- Heavy-duty plant machinery
Their work ensures that critical equipment remains operational, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
Because mining operations depend heavily on machinery, qualified diesel mechanics remain among the most sought-after artisans in South Africa.
Duties and Responsibilities
Successful learners will be expected to actively participate in both workplace and classroom training while maintaining high safety and performance standards.
Responsibilities include:
- Complying with all company Health and Safety policies and procedures.
- Maintaining excellent housekeeping standards within work areas.
- Following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety checklists.
- Using the correct documentation and reporting systems for assigned tasks.
- Assisting supervisors and line managers with maintenance activities.
- Participating in planned maintenance and repair work.
- Supporting major and minor mechanical projects.
- Completing daily, weekly, and monthly reports when required.
- Attending all training sessions and assessments.
- Demonstrating professionalism, accountability, and willingness to learn.
Minimum Requirements For Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership Programme 2026
To be considered for the programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Must form part of the local community youth group.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric) with a minimum of 40% in:
- English
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
OR
- N2 qualification with four trade-related subjects relevant to Diesel Mechanic studies.
OR
- National Certificate (Vocational) Level 3 with:
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Relevant Diesel Mechanic trade subjects
- Minimum 40% pass mark
Additional Requirements
Candidates must:
- Be medically fit in accordance with Mine Health and Safety Act requirements.
- Successfully complete the Mine Health and Safety Induction.
- Demonstrate a willingness to learn and develop technical skills.
- Possess good verbal and written communication skills.
- Be committed to completing the full 36-month training programme.
Benefits of Joining a Diesel Mechanic Learnership
Participating in a learnership provides far more than classroom training.
Benefits may include:
- Practical workplace experience within the mining industry.
- Exposure to modern mining equipment and machinery.
- Industry-recognised technical training.
- Development of artisan skills.
- Improved employability after completion.
- A pathway towards long-term career opportunities in engineering and maintenance.
- Access to experienced mentors and supervisors.
For many learners, a learnership serves as the first step towards becoming a fully qualified artisan.
Career Opportunities After Qualification
Qualified diesel mechanics can pursue careers in various industries, including:
- Mining
- Construction
- Logistics
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Heavy equipment maintenance
- Transport and fleet management
Many artisans eventually progress into supervisory, planning, maintenance management, or specialist technical positions after gaining additional experience.
Why Diesel Mechanics Remain in Demand
South Africa’s economy relies heavily on industries that utilise heavy machinery and diesel-powered equipment. Mining companies, transport operators, construction firms, and agricultural businesses all require skilled artisans to maintain their assets.
As experienced artisans retire, employers continue investing in learnership and apprenticeship programmes to develop the next generation of technical professionals.
This makes diesel mechanic training one of the most valuable artisan pathways available to young people interested in engineering and mechanical careers.
Thabang Maimela’s Tip
Many successful artisans did not start with years of experience—they started with a learnership opportunity just like this one. Focus on building practical skills, maintaining a strong work ethic, and taking every training opportunity seriously. The technical knowledge and workplace exposure gained during a learnership can create career opportunities that last a lifetime.
Candidates who meet the minimum requirements should submit their applications according to the instructions provided by Imerys.
Ensure that all supporting documents are submitted correctly and that your contact details are up to date. Only applicants who satisfy the programme requirements will be considered.
Applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates are encouraged before the closing date.
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Apply Now For The Imerys Diesel Mechanic Learnership
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I am Thabang Maimela, Founder and Editor of CareersPursuit, a platform dedicated to connecting job seekers with real opportunities across South Africa and beyond. With a strong focus on learnerships, apprenticeships, and entry-level jobs, my mission is to empower individuals by providing reliable, up-to-date career information that helps them take the next step toward employment and growth. Read more about the author on the About Us Page.