By Thabang Maimela | 29 April 2026
Applicants are invited to apply for the AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship Programme 2026 (X40)
AFGRI Equipment is inviting applications for its Apprenticeship Programme 2026 (X40 positions available). This is an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals who want to build a career as a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic within one of South Africa’s leading agricultural and equipment service organisations.
With decades of experience and a strong partnership with John Deere, AFGRI Equipment provides apprentices with world-class training, hands-on experience, and exposure to advanced machinery used across multiple industries.
AFGRI Equipment has proudly held the John Deere agency since 1962, servicing the North-East and South-West regions of South Africa.
The company operates an extensive branch network across the country, including locations such as Polokwane, Nelspruit, Bellville, George, Pietermaritzburg, and many more. In addition to its South African footprint, AFGRI also operates internationally in countries such as Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, and Western Australia.
The organisation runs highly equipped workshops that service and maintain:
This wide exposure ensures that apprentices gain diverse, real-world experience across multiple sectors.
The AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship Programme is a 3-year structured training programme designed to develop skilled artisans in the fields of:
The programme combines workplace experience with formal training, ensuring that apprentices develop both technical knowledge and practical skills.
The apprenticeship begins with a 6-month probation period. During this time:
After successful completion of the probation period, apprentices enter into a formal contract with AFGRI.
Training includes:
This blended approach ensures that apprentices receive a well-rounded education and practical exposure.
AFGRI supports training through recognised sector authorities:
Apprentices will be registered under one of these SETAs, ensuring that their training meets national standards and leads to a recognised qualification.
This structure ensures commitment while providing a clear pathway to qualification.
As an apprentice, you will be trained and involved in various technical and operational tasks, including:
You will work alongside experienced technicians and gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and equipment.
To be considered for the AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
The following subjects will strengthen your application:
AFGRI is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following qualities:
This apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who are passionate about mechanics and enjoy working with machinery.
You should be hands-on, eager to learn, and committed to developing your technical skills. A strong work ethic, discipline, and willingness to follow structured training will be essential for success.
Candidates who are reliable, adaptable, and serious about building a long-term career in the mechanical field will benefit the most from this programme.
The AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship Programme offers:
This is a rare opportunity to gain practical experience while working with one of the most respected names in the equipment industry.
After successfully completing the apprenticeship, you may pursue roles such as:
These roles are in demand across industries such as agriculture, mining, construction, and logistics.
I am Thabang Maimela, Founder and Editor of CareersPursuit and YouthSETA, two South African platforms dedicated to helping individuals access employment opportunities, skills development programmes, and career growth resources. Through CareersPursuit, I focus on jobs, internships, apprenticeships, graduate programmes, learnerships, and career advice, while YouthSETA specialises in SETA learnerships, skills programmes, youth development initiatives, and workplace readiness resources. My mission is to make reliable, up to date information more accessible, helping South Africans build skills, improve employability, and navigate their career journeys with confidence. Read more about the author on the About Us page.
