AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026: Exciting Tractor & Earthmoving Mechanic Opportunities – 40 Positions

Are you looking for an exciting apprenticeship opportunity in South Africa that can help you build a career as a qualified mechanic? AFGRI Equipment is inviting motivated and results-driven candidates to apply for its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme, with opportunities available for aspiring Tractor Mechanics and Earthmoving Mechanics.

The apprenticeship is advertised as Apprenticeship (X40) (South Africa) and offers candidates an opportunity to receive practical, workplace-based training while working towards a qualification as either a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic.

A total of 40 apprenticeship opportunities are advertised under reference number AO-2345. The programme is structured over three years, with the first six months serving as a probation period.

The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026.

If you have Grade 12 with the required subjects, a valid driver’s licence and an interest in agricultural, construction or earthmoving machinery, this could be an opportunity worth considering.

AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 – Quick Overview

• Company: AFGRI Equipment
• Opportunity: Apprenticeship (X40)
• Reference Number: AO-2345
• Positions: 40
• Training Areas: Tractor Mechanic and Earthmoving Mechanic
• Location: South Africa
• Work Level: Student/Graduate
• Job Type: Contract
• Duration: 3 years+
• Salary: Market related
• Closing Date: 30 September 2026
• Employment Equity: Yes

The apprenticeship is designed to provide practical and formal training for candidates who want to develop technical skills in the agricultural equipment and earthmoving machinery sectors.

What Is the AFGRI Apprenticeship?

The AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme is a three-year in-service training opportunity aimed at developing candidates into qualified Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.

AFGRI Equipment operates repair workshops that service and maintain agricultural equipment, construction and forestry machinery, as well as golf and turf equipment. The company says its branch network covers numerous locations across South Africa and also has an international presence in Botswana, Kenya, Uganda and Western Australia.

The apprenticeship provides an opportunity for successful candidates to gain experience in a real workplace while receiving formal technical training.

This makes the programme particularly relevant to young people who want a practical career rather than a purely classroom-based qualification.

40 Apprenticeship Opportunities Available

The advert states that 40 apprenticeship opportunities are available.

Candidates may be appointed as either:

• Tractor Apprentices
• Earthmoving Apprentices

The exact training path will depend on the apprenticeship placement and applicable requirements.

The programme is designed to train apprentices in the repair and maintenance of equipment relevant to their selected field.

Three-Year Apprenticeship Programme

The AFGRI apprenticeship is structured around a three-year contract.

During this period, apprentices receive workplace training and participate in formal learning activities designed to develop their technical competence.

The first six months are a probation period.

According to the advert, this period allows both AFGRI and the apprentice to assess whether there is a suitable long-term relationship.

Either party may withdraw during the probation period without consequences according to the conditions stated in the advertisement.

After successfully completing the probation period, the apprentice enters into an AFGRI contract and continues with the formal apprenticeship training.

What Training Will Apprentices Receive?

The training programme combines different forms of learning.

Depending on the applicable requirements, apprentices may attend a Practical Training Institute for relevant phases.

They may also register for subjects through distance learning via a college, where this is required and available.

The advert states that:

• Saturday classes may be required.
• Distance learning may continue during workplace training.
• Product training may be provided by suppliers or AFGRI specialists.
• Internal training may be provided by AFGRI specialists.

This means apprentices should be prepared to combine workplace responsibilities with formal learning.

Training Through AgriSETA or MerSETA

The apprenticeship is supported through relevant Sector Education and Training Authorities.

AFGRI states that training can be supported through either:

• AgriSETA – Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority
• MerSETA – Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA

Both AFGRI and the apprentice will be contracted to one of these SETAs, depending on the applicable training arrangements.

This is an important part of the programme because SETA involvement supports structured occupational training.

AFGRI Apprenticeship Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum requirements listed in the official advert.

These include:

• A valid driver’s licence
• Good communication skills
• Administrative skills
• Computer literacy
• Grade 12

However, the Grade 12 requirement also includes specific subject requirements.

Required Grade 12 Subjects

Applicants must have passed:

English

and

Mathematics or Technical Mathematics

The advert specifically states that Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for this requirement.

This is an important requirement for prospective applicants to check before applying.

Candidates who completed Grade 12 with Mathematical Literacy instead of Mathematics or Technical Mathematics should not assume that they meet the stated academic requirement.

Advantageous Subjects

Although they are not compulsory according to the advert, certain subjects are considered advantageous.

These include:

• Engineering/Technical or Physical Science
• Engineering Graphics & Design
• Diesel Trade Theory
• Motor Trade Theory

Having one or more of these subjects may give applicants relevant technical exposure for an apprenticeship focused on mechanical equipment.

However, candidates should note that the advert describes these subjects as advantageous, not compulsory.

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What Will Apprentices Do?

The duties of the apprentices will focus on developing the knowledge and practical skills required to become Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.

The listed responsibilities include:

Training as a Mechanic

Apprentices will undergo training to become either a Tractor Mechanic or an Earthmoving Mechanic.

This will involve developing practical knowledge of machinery, components, repair procedures and maintenance requirements.

Repair and Maintenance

Apprentices will assist with the repair and maintenance of related equipment.

The exact equipment will depend on the apprenticeship area and workplace placement.

Stock Control

The role also includes stock-control responsibilities.

Apprentices may therefore gain exposure to managing parts, equipment and other items required in a workshop environment.

Customer Service

The apprenticeship includes customer-service responsibilities.

This means apprentices should understand that technical work can also involve communicating with customers and colleagues.

General Workplace Duties

Apprentices will also perform general workplace duties as required.

Candidates should therefore be prepared to learn, assist colleagues and follow workplace procedures.

Behavioural Competencies

AFGRI is looking for more than candidates with the correct academic qualifications.

The advert lists several behavioural competencies that applicants should demonstrate.

These include being:

• Highly motivated
• Detail-oriented
• An effective team player
• Goal-oriented
• Deadline-driven

These qualities are important in a technical environment where apprentices need to learn new skills, complete training requirements and work safely with machinery and equipment.

Assessment and Screening Process

Applicants should be prepared to complete a screening and assessment process.

AFGRI specifically advises applicants to complete the screening and assessment questions to the best of their own knowledge.

The advert also states that applicants may need at least 30 minutes to complete this process.

Candidates should therefore set aside sufficient time when completing the online application.

Applicants must also make themselves available for an interview and assessment process as defined by the company.

Is the AFGRI Apprenticeship Paid?

The vacancy lists the salary as:

Market Related

The advert does not provide a specific monthly stipend or salary amount.

Applicants should therefore avoid relying on specific amounts published by third-party websites unless AFGRI confirms those figures directly.

The apprenticeship is listed as a contract position, with a duration of 3 years+.

Training Costs

One of the important conditions of the apprenticeship concerns training costs.

AFGRI states that training provided is free of charge if passed.

However, applicants should carefully understand the conditions.

According to the advert, any failed subjects or phases must be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost and time.

The apprenticeship is also subject to a three-year contract.

If an apprentice withdraws during the apprenticeship or the required work-back period, repayment of training costs will apply according to the terms stated in the agreement.

Work-Back Period

The apprenticeship includes a work-back condition.

AFGRI states that the work-back period equals the time it took to qualify, calculated in years.

The apprenticeship contract cannot exceed four years.

If the apprentice does not qualify within four years, the contract expires.

Applicants should carefully read and understand the contractual conditions before accepting an apprenticeship position.

Where Is the Apprenticeship Located?

The opportunity is listed as being available in:

South Africa

AFGRI Equipment has a large branch network covering various parts of the country.

The advert lists branches including locations such as Bethal, Bethlehem, Brits, Delmas, Frankfort, Grootvlei, Komatipoort, Marble Hall, Middelburg, Standerton, Harrismith, Polokwane, Bellville, George, Tzaneen, Nelspruit, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Empangeni and several others.

Applicants should understand that the exact placement will depend on the apprenticeship arrangements and available positions.

AFGRI Apprenticeship Closing Date

The closing date for the AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 opportunity is:

30 September 2026

Applicants should submit their applications before the closing date.

The advert states that applicants who have not heard from AFGRI within 30 days of the closing date may assume that their applications have been unsuccessful.

How to Apply for the AFGRI Apprenticeship

Applications must be submitted through the AFGRI online recruitment platform.

Apply for the AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026

When applying, candidates should make sure that they provide accurate information and complete the screening and assessment questions.

Applicants should also allow enough time to complete the assessment because AFGRI indicates that it may take at least 30 minutes.

Application Reference Number

The reference number for this apprenticeship is:

AO-2345

Applicants should use the correct vacancy when completing their application.

The position is listed as Apprenticeship (X40) (South Africa).

Who Should Apply?

The AFGRI Apprenticeship could be suitable for candidates who:

• Have Grade 12.
• Have passed English.
• Have passed Mathematics or Technical Mathematics.
• Do not have Mathematical Literacy as their mathematics subject.
• Have a valid driver’s licence.
• Are computer literate.
• Have good communication skills.
• Have administrative skills.
• Are interested in mechanics.
• Want to work with agricultural or earthmoving equipment.
• Are motivated to develop technical skills.
• Can work as part of a team.
• Are detail-oriented.
• Are goal-oriented.
• Can meet deadlines.

Applicants who have studied technical subjects such as Engineering Graphics & Design, Physical Science, Diesel Trade Theory or Motor Trade Theory may have an advantage, although these subjects are not compulsory according to the advertisement.

Why Consider the AFGRI Apprenticeship?

The AFGRI apprenticeship provides an opportunity to gain hands-on workplace experience while progressing through structured technical training.

Instead of simply learning about machinery in a classroom, apprentices can gain exposure to real equipment and workplace practices.

The programme is particularly relevant to people interested in careers involving:

• Agricultural machinery
• Tractors
• Earthmoving equipment
• Mechanical repairs
• Equipment maintenance
• Workshop operations
• Technical services

AFGRI’s established equipment operations and workshop environment can provide apprentices with exposure to the type of technical workplace in which qualified mechanics operate.

Final Words

The AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 is an exciting opportunity for candidates who want to build a career as a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic.

A total of 40 apprenticeship opportunities are advertised, with the programme structured over three years. The first six months serve as a probation period, after which apprentices continue with formal training under an AFGRI contract.

Applicants must have Grade 12, a valid driver’s licence, good communication skills, administrative skills and computer literacy. Importantly, candidates must have passed English and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, while Mathematical Literacy is specifically excluded from the stated mathematics requirement.

The advertised salary is market related, and the position is listed as a contract opportunity with a duration of 3 years+.

If you meet the requirements and are interested in developing practical mechanical skills, make sure you submit your application before the 30 September 2026 closing date.

AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 – Quick Summary

Apply Now

If you meet the requirements, don’t wait until the closing date.

Submit Your AFGRI Apprenticeship Application Here

Closing date: 30 September 2026.