AFGRI Earthmoving Apprenticeship Programme 2026: Applications Open Across South Africa

For young people who enjoy working with heavy machinery, agricultural equipment and diesel engines, an apprenticeship provides an excellent pathway to becoming a qualified artisan. Through structured workplace training, apprentices gain practical experience while working towards a recognised trade qualification. Agricultural and earthmoving mechanics continue to be in demand as South Africa’s farming, construction and mining industries rely heavily on specialised equipment.

AFGRI Equipment is inviting applications for its Tractor and Earthmoving Apprenticeship Programme 2026. Successful candidates will complete a 3-year apprenticeship leading to qualification as either a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic. The programme combines practical workplace experience, formal technical training and industry-recognised learning supported by AgriSETA or MerSETA.

---

About AFGRI Equipment

AFGRI Equipment has proudly represented John Deere in South Africa since 1962.

The company operates an extensive network of branches throughout South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Uganda and Western Australia, providing sales, servicing and maintenance for:

• Agricultural machinery
• Construction equipment
• Forestry machinery
• Golf and turf equipment

Its highly equipped workshops provide apprentices with valuable exposure to modern agricultural and heavy equipment technology.

---

About the Apprenticeship Programme

The AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme has been developed to train future artisans through a structured combination of:

• Workplace experience
• Practical technical training
• Formal theoretical learning
• Product-specific training
• Trade preparation

Successful candidates will train as either:

• Tractor Mechanics

or

• Earthmoving Mechanics

---

Programme Overview

• Programme: AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship Programme 2026
• Trades: Tractor Mechanic / Earthmoving Mechanic
• Duration: 3 Years
• Programme Type: Apprenticeship
• Closing Date: 30 September 2026

Probation Period

The apprenticeship begins with a 6-month probation period.

During this time:

• The apprentice and AFGRI assess long-term suitability.
• Either party may withdraw without further obligation.

Successful candidates who complete probation will proceed to the formal apprenticeship contract.

---

Training Structure

Following probation, apprentices will participate in structured training that may include:

• Practical Training Institute attendance
• Distance learning through accredited colleges
• Saturday classes (where required)
• Workplace practical training
• Product training from John Deere and other suppliers
• Internal technical training conducted by AFGRI specialists

This combination of learning ensures apprentices receive both theoretical and practical knowledge.

---

SETA Accreditation

Training is supported through:

• AgriSETA

or

• MerSETA

Both the apprentice and AFGRI will be formally contracted through the relevant SETA during the apprenticeship.

---

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Valid South African driver’s licence
• Good communication skills
• Basic administrative skills
• Computer literacy

---

Required School Subjects

Applicants must have passed:

• English
• Mathematics or Technical Mathematics

Mathematical Literacy will not be accepted.

---

Advantageous Subjects

The following subjects will strengthen an application:

• Physical Science
• Technical Science
• Engineering Graphics & Design (EGD)
• Diesel Trade Theory
• Motor Trade Theory

Although not compulsory, these subjects demonstrate technical readiness for the apprenticeship.

---

What You Will Learn

During the apprenticeship, participants will receive practical training in:

Tractor or Earthmoving Equipment Maintenance

Learners will develop skills in:

• Equipment servicing
• Preventative maintenance
• Mechanical repairs
• Fault diagnosis
• Equipment inspections

---

Workshop Operations

Apprentices will gain experience in:

• Workshop procedures
• Safe use of tools
• Equipment handling
• Technical documentation
• Daily workshop operations

---

Customer Service

Participants will also develop professional skills by assisting with customer-related activities and supporting dealership operations.

---

Stock Control

The programme includes exposure to:

• Parts management
• Stock control
• Workshop inventory
• Administrative responsibilities

Understanding workshop logistics is an important part of becoming a qualified artisan.

---

Costs and Commitments

AFGRI provides training free of charge, provided all training phases are successfully completed.

However:

• Failed subjects must be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost.
• Apprentices enter into a 3-year training contract.
• A work-back period applies after qualification.
• If an apprentice withdraws early, repayment of training costs may be required.
• The apprenticeship contract cannot exceed 4 years.

Applicants should understand these commitments before accepting an offer.

---

Skills AFGRI Is Looking For

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Motivation
• Attention to detail
• Teamwork
• Goal orientation
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Strong work ethic
• Willingness to learn

These personal qualities are essential for success within the programme.

---

Recruitment Process

Applicants should be prepared to participate in:

• Screening
• Assessments
• Interviews

AFGRI advises candidates to allow approximately 30 minutes to complete the assessment questions.

---

Thabang Maimela’s Tip

One of the biggest differences with the AFGRI apprenticeship is that it requires a valid driver’s licence before applying, and Mathematical Literacy is not accepted. If you’ve studied Engineering Graphics & Design (EGD), Diesel Trade Theory or Motor Trade Theory, make sure these subjects stand out on your CV because AFGRI specifically lists them as advantages. Also be prepared for the assessment process don’t rush through it, as it’s an important part of the selection process.

---

Career Opportunities After Completion

After successfully completing the apprenticeship and qualifying as an artisan, candidates may pursue careers such as:

• Tractor Mechanic
• Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic
• Agricultural Equipment Technician
• Heavy Equipment Technician
• Field Service Technician
• Diesel Mechanic
• Workshop Technician
• Agricultural Machinery Specialist

Qualified artisans are employed across agriculture, mining, forestry, construction and equipment dealerships.

---

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official AFGRI Careers Portal before the 30 September 2026 closing date.

Prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated CV
• Certified South African ID
• Certified Grade 12 certificate
• Valid driver’s licence
• Academic results
• Any additional technical certificates (if applicable)
• Supporting documents requested during the online application

Complete the online assessment honestly and thoroughly to maximise your chances of being shortlisted. Apply Now

---

Build Your Artisan Career with AFGRI Equipment

The AFGRI Equipment Tractor & Earthmoving Apprenticeship Programme 2026 offers aspiring artisans the opportunity to train with one of Southern Africa’s leading agricultural equipment companies while working towards qualification as a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic.

With structured technical training, practical workplace experience, SETA-accredited learning and exposure to world-class John Deere equipment, this apprenticeship provides an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in the agricultural and heavy equipment industries.

Closing Date: 30 September 2026

Disclaimer

CareersPursuit shares publicly available opportunities for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the companies or organisations mentioned unless explicitly stated otherwise. Do not send your personal information, CV, or applications directly to CareersPursuit. Always verify opportunity details through official channels before applying.