Liebherr, one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of construction and mining equipment, has opened applications for its Engineering Apprenticeship Programme 2027 in Springs, Gauteng. The four-year programme is open to unemployed South African youth with as little as Grade 11 with Mathematics and Physical Science, or an N2 with Engineering Science. Applications close on 31 August 2026, and a trade qualification at a global company like this can set you up for life.
About the Programme
Liebherr is a family-owned German equipment group known worldwide for its cranes, earthmoving machines and mining equipment. In South Africa, Liebherr-Africa operates from Springs in Gauteng, where it supports machines working on mines, construction sites and ports across the region.
The apprenticeship programme runs for four years and combines structured workplace training with practical technical development in the maintenance and repair of heavy equipment. Apprentices work towards a recognised trade in one of four technical fields, gaining exposure to engineering operations, equipment maintenance, fault finding and electrical systems. For a young South African who wants to work with their hands and qualify as an artisan, learning a trade on some of the most advanced machinery in the industry is about as good as it gets.
Available Apprenticeship Fields
- Earthmoving Equipment
- Mechanics
- Automotive Electrical
- High-Voltage Electrical
During the programme you can expect structured technical training, workplace safety training, practical exposure to real machines in the workshop and field, and mentorship from qualified artisans. The stipend amount is confirmed during the application process.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- A minimum of Grade 11 with Mathematics and Physical Science, OR an N2 qualification with Mathematics and Engineering Science
- Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted in place of Mathematics
- You must be unemployed
- You must have a real interest in engineering and technical trades
- You must be willing to complete the full four-year programme
- You must be prepared to work in a practical engineering environment and follow workplace safety procedures
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Required Documents
- A comprehensive, updated CV with your personal and contact details
- Your education history with subjects and results clearly listed, showing Mathematics and Physical Science or Engineering Science
- Any technical qualifications you hold, such as your N2 certificate
- Skills, competencies and references
How to Apply
- Update your CV and make sure your Maths and Science subjects and results are clearly shown
- Decide which of the four apprenticeship fields interests you most and state it in your application
- Write a clear email subject line: Application: Liebherr Engineering Apprenticeship 2027
- Email your CV and supporting documents before the closing date
Send your application by email: Apply at Liebherr by emailing norman.kryney@liebherr.com
Closing Date
The closing date for the Liebherr Engineering Apprenticeship 2027 is 31 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
South Africa has a critical shortage of qualified artisans, and trades like earthmoving equipment mechanics and high-voltage electrical work are on the national scarce skills list. That shortage is your opportunity: qualified artisans are in demand across mining, construction and energy, and they earn well above the national median.
What makes this programme special is that it does not require Matric or a university pass; Grade 11 with the right subjects gets your foot in the door at a global manufacturer. Four years of Liebherr training on your CV tells any employer in the heavy equipment industry that you were trained to international standards. For unemployed youth in Gauteng and the East Rand especially, this is a direct route from Grade 11 to a professional trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Matric to apply?
No. The minimum requirement is Grade 11 with Mathematics and Physical Science, or an N2 with Mathematics and Engineering Science. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
Where is the apprenticeship based?
The programme is based in Springs, Gauteng, at Liebherr’s South African operation. You should be able to work there for the full four years.
Is there a stipend?
Apprenticeships of this kind are typically paid, but the amount is confirmed during the application process.
What happens after the four years?
You will have completed a structured apprenticeship in your chosen trade, which prepares you for trade testing and artisan-level work in the heavy equipment, mining and construction industries.
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