AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme 2026 (X40 Posts) | Applications Open Across South Africa
AFGRI Equipment is inviting applications for its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme, offering 40 apprenticeship opportunities for aspiring Tractor Mechanics and Earthmoving Mechanics across South Africa. This three-year programme combines practical workplace training with formal technical education, providing successful candidates with the opportunity to earn a recognised trade qualification while gaining valuable industry experience.
If you have a passion for mechanics, agriculture, or heavy machinery and meet the minimum requirements, this apprenticeship could be the ideal starting point for a rewarding technical career.
About AFGRI Equipment
AFGRI Equipment has proudly represented John Deere in South Africa since 1962, serving customers across the North-East and South-West regions of the country. The company operates an extensive network of branches and modern repair workshops that specialise in the maintenance and servicing of agricultural, construction, forestry, golf, and turf equipment.
With operations extending into Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, and Western Australia, AFGRI is recognised as one of the leading agricultural equipment providers in Southern Africa.
Apprenticeship Opportunities Available
Successful applicants will be appointed as either:
- Tractor Mechanic Apprentice
- Earthmoving Mechanic Apprentice
The apprenticeship runs for three years, during which learners receive structured workplace training, technical education, and industry-specific product training.
Branch Locations
Apprenticeship opportunities are available across numerous AFGRI branches in South Africa, including:
- Bethal
- Bethlehem
- Brits
- Delmas
- Frankfort
- Grootvlei
- Komatipoort
- Marble Hall
- Middelburg
- Standerton
- Harrismith
- Marquard
- Thabazimbi
- Polokwane
- Bellville
- Malmesbury
- Ceres
- Worcester
- Piketberg
- George
- Vredendal
- Caledon
- Kempton Park
- Tzaneen
- Springbok
- Nelspruit
- Newcastle
- Winterton
- Dalton
- Pietermaritzburg
- Empangeni
- Salt Rock
- Kokstad
What the Apprenticeship Includes
The programme provides comprehensive technical training through both practical and theoretical learning.
Training includes:
- Workplace-based practical training
- Attendance at a Practical Training Institute where required
- Distance learning through an accredited college where applicable
- Product training provided by John Deere suppliers and AFGRI specialists
- Internal technical training programmes
- Saturday classes where required
- Continuous workplace mentoring
Training is conducted in partnership with:
- AgriSETA
- MerSETA
Probation Period
The first six months serve as a probation period, allowing both AFGRI and the apprentice to assess whether the apprenticeship is a suitable long-term fit.
After successful completion of probation, learners enter into the formal apprenticeship contract and continue their technical training.
Duties and Responsibilities
During the apprenticeship, learners will gain practical experience in:
- Repairing and maintaining tractors or earthmoving equipment
- Diagnosing mechanical faults
- Servicing agricultural and construction machinery
- Assisting with workshop operations
- Performing stock control duties
- Providing customer service support
- Following workplace safety procedures
- Completing general workshop responsibilities
- Learning to use specialised tools and diagnostic equipment
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- English
- Mathematics or Technical Mathematics (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted)
- Valid driver’s licence
- Good communication skills
- Basic administrative skills
- Computer literacy
The following subjects will be advantageous but are not compulsory:
- Physical Science
- Engineering Science
- Technical Mathematics
- Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD)
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
Personal Attributes
AFGRI is looking for candidates who are:
- Highly motivated
- Passionate about mechanics
- Willing to learn
- Goal-orientated
- Detail-focused
- Reliable
- Able to work well in a team
- Able to meet deadlines
- Professional and responsible
Training Costs
AFGRI covers the cost of training provided all subjects and phases are passed successfully.
However:
- Failed subjects must be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost.
- Apprentices are required to complete the full apprenticeship contract.
- Leaving the programme early or failing to complete the agreed work-back period may require repayment of training costs.
Programme Benefits
Successful apprentices will receive:
- Three years of structured workplace training
- Exposure to leading agricultural and earthmoving equipment
- Practical mechanical experience
- Industry-recognised technical training
- Mentorship from experienced technicians
- Product training from John Deere specialists
- Opportunity to qualify as a Tractor Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic
- Improved long-term career prospects in the engineering and agricultural sectors
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Recent Matric graduates
- Young South Africans interested in mechanical careers
- Individuals passionate about tractors, construction equipment, or diesel mechanics
- School leavers who meet the Mathematics requirement
- Candidates looking to become qualified artisans
Important Information
Applicants should complete all screening and assessment questions honestly and carefully. The assessment process may take approximately 30 minutes, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend interviews and further assessments.
Appointments will be made in accordance with AFGRI’s Employment Equity Policy.
Location
Various AFGRI branches across South Africa
Duration
3-Year Apprenticeship Programme
Job Type
Contract
Closing Date
30 September 2026
Why You Should Apply Early
AFGRI’s apprenticeship programme is one of the country’s well-established technical training opportunities and is expected to receive a high number of applications. Applying early gives you more time to complete the assessment process and ensures your application is submitted before the deadline.
If you’re passionate about mechanics and want to build a career maintaining world-class agricultural and earthmoving equipment, the AFGRI Apprenticeship Programme 2026 offers an excellent opportunity to gain recognised technical training, practical experience, and a pathway toward becoming a qualified artisan.
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.
