Rio Tinto is inviting applications for its 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This occupationally directed qualification programme offers unemployed South African youth an opportunity to gain accredited artisan training and earn a recognised Trade Certificate.
The learnership combines theoretical studies, practical training, and workplace experience to prepare learners for careers in the mining and engineering industries.
About the Rio Tinto Artisan Learnership Programme
The 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme is registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and accredited through the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
Successful learners will receive:
- Structured artisan training
- Workplace experience
- Practical and theoretical learning
- A nationally recognised Trade Certificate
- Industry-relevant skills development
Trades Available
Applicants can apply for training in the following occupational trades:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boiler Maker
- Millwright
- Refractory Mason
- Electrician
- Mechanical Fitter
- Instrumentation
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Rio Tinto Learnership Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed youth
- Have completed Grade 12/Matric
- Have Mathematics (Core Mathematics) and Physical Science or Technical Matric
- Hold a trade-related qualification
- Possess a valid South African driver’s licence (Code B minimum)
- Not currently be registered on another SETA-funded learnership or apprenticeship
- Reside within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following certified documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Matric certificate
- Trade qualification certificate
- South African ID document
- Valid driver’s licence
- Proof of residence or domicile address
- Affidavit confirming the applicant is not participating in another SETA-funded programme
Selection Process
Acceptance into the programme depends on:
- Successful interview performance
- Assessment results
- Verification of submitted documents
Application Closing Date
Applications for the Rio Tinto 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme close on 29 May 2026.
About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is one of the world’s leading mining and materials companies, operating in over 35 countries. The company produces materials including iron ore, copper, aluminium, and critical minerals used in the global energy transition.
Rio Tinto promotes diversity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunities. The company encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and candidates from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Why You Should Apply
This learnership programme offers:
- Accredited artisan training
- Valuable mining industry experience
- Improved employment opportunities
- Practical technical skills
- Exposure to a global mining company
It is an excellent opportunity for young South Africans interested in engineering, mining, and technical careers.
Final Thoughts
The Rio Tinto 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme is a valuable career opportunity for unemployed youth in KwaZulu-Natal who want to qualify as artisans in the mining and engineering sectors. Interested candidates should ensure all required documents are certified and submitted before the closing date.
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.
