Apply for the AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship 2026 in South Africa. Gain hands-on training as a Tractor or Earthmoving Apprentice with John Deere equipment.
Apprenticeship Opportunity at AFGRI Equipment
AFGRI Careers is inviting applications for its Apprenticeship Programme 2026, offering 40 positions for Tractor Apprentices and Earthmoving Apprentices across South Africa.
This programme is ideal for young, motivated individuals who want to build a long-term career in mechanical and engineering trades.
About AFGRI Equipment
AFGRI Equipment has been the official John Deere agency since 1962 and is one of South Africa’s leading suppliers of agricultural and construction machinery.
The company operates across multiple provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape, as well as internationally in several African countries.
Apprenticeship Details
- Position: Tractor Apprentice / Earthmoving Apprentice
- Reference Number: AO-2345
- Job Type: Contract (3+ years)
- Salary: Market related
- Location: South Africa
- EE Status: Yes
- Positions Available: 40
About the Programme
The apprenticeship combines:
- Practical workplace training
- Technical classroom learning
- College-based studies (where required)
- Supplier product training
- Internal technical instruction
Training is supported by AgriSETA and MerSETA.
Training Structure
Apprentices will participate in:
- Workplace practical training
- Distance learning and college attendance
- Saturday classes (when required)
- Ongoing mentorship from senior technicians
The first 6 months will serve as a probation period for both the apprentice and employer.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be trained to:
- Repair and maintain tractors and heavy machinery
- Diagnose mechanical faults
- Perform general workshop duties
- Assist with stock control
- Follow safety procedures
- Work alongside experienced technicians
- Support customer service operations
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate
- Valid driver’s licence
- Good communication skills
- Basic computer literacy
- Administrative ability
Required Subjects
- English
- Mathematics or Technical Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted
Advantageous Subjects
- Physical Science
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
Skills and Competencies
Ideal candidates should be:
- Highly motivated and disciplined
- Hardworking and goal-driven
- Detail-oriented
- Able to work in a team
- Willing to learn technical skills
- Able to perform under pressure
Important Conditions
- Training is free if academic subjects are passed
- Failed subjects must be repeated at own cost
- Apprenticeship includes a 3-year work-back commitment
- Contract may not exceed 4 years
- Employment is subject to performance during probation
Closing Date
- 30 September 2026
Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Why Apply for This Apprenticeship?
This opportunity offers:
- Practical technical training
- Exposure to world-class machinery (John Deere)
- A structured career path in engineering
- Long-term employment potential
- Industry-recognised skills development
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete the online application and screening process:
Skhumbuzo Shandu is the founder of Careers With Shandu, a platform dedicated to helping South Africans access job opportunities, learnerships, and career development resources.
He focuses on sharing clear, practical, and up-to-date information to help matriculants, graduates, and job seekers navigate applications and build their careers.
Through his work, he aims to make opportunities easier to understand and accessible to everyone, especially young people entering the workforce.
