Last Updated: October 2025
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
🏗️ Introduction
If you’re passionate about engineering and want to gain hands-on experience while earning a stipend, a merSETA engineering learnership could be your gateway to a rewarding technical career.
The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA) is one of South Africa’s leading SETAs, responsible for developing skills in the manufacturing and engineering industries.
This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for merSETA learnerships in Johannesburg, eligibility requirements, available programmes, and key tips to increase your chances of success — all in compliance with the latest 2025 SETA standards.
🧰 What Is merSETA?
The merSETA is part of the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) network under the Skills Development Act of South Africa. Its goal is to close the skills gap in manufacturing, engineering, and related technical fields.
merSETA supports industries such as:
- Metal and Engineering
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Motor Retail and Component Manufacturing
- Tyre Manufacturing
- Plastics Industries
The authority works with companies, training providers, and technical colleges to fund learnerships, apprenticeships, and skills programmes across South Africa — especially in high-demand areas like mechanical engineering, fitting and turning, electrical work, welding, and mechatronics.
📍 Why Choose a merSETA Learnership in Johannesburg?
Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest economic hub, is home to hundreds of merSETA-accredited employers and training centres. Applying for a learnership here gives you exposure to real industrial environments and access to top-tier mentors.
Benefits of doing a merSETA learnership in Johannesburg:
- High Employability: Johannesburg hosts leading manufacturers, giving you strong job placement prospects after completion.
- Hands-On Training: You’ll work with real tools, machinery, and industry technologies.
- National Qualification Framework (NQF) Recognition: merSETA learnerships lead to NQF Level 2–5 qualifications, recognized across South Africa.
- Monthly Stipend: You earn while you learn. The stipend helps cover transport and meals.
- Career Pathway: Graduates can progress into apprenticeships, diplomas, or full-time jobs in engineering fields.
📘 Available merSETA Engineering Learnerships in 2025
Below are some popular merSETA-accredited engineering learnerships available in Johannesburg for 2025:
| NQF Level | Duration | Example Host Companies | |
| Mechanical Engineering Learnership | Level 2–4 | 12–18 months | ArcelorMittal, Denel, Sasol |
| Electrical Engineering Learnership | Level 3–4 | 12 months | Eskom, City Power, Siemens |
| Fitting and Turning Learnership | Level 2–3 | 18 months | Transnet, Murray & Roberts |
| Welding Learnership | Level 2–3 | 12 months | Bell Equipment, Scaw Metals |
| Mechatronics Learnership | Level 4–5 | 18 months | BMW, Mercedes-Benz SA |
| Toolmaking and Machining Learnership | Level 3–5 | 18 months | Ford, Toyota SA |
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the minimum entry requirements. Each learnership may have slightly different criteria, but most merSETA programmes require:
- South African citizenship (valid ID copy required)
- Age 18–35 years old
- Grade 12 certificate, preferably with Maths and Science
- Technical or vocational background (N1–N3 certificates are a plus)
- Residing in or near Johannesburg
- Unemployed and not currently enrolled in another SETA learnership
💡 Tip: If you already have basic technical training, such as a TVET qualification, mention it in your application — it demonstrates your commitment and practical readiness.
🧾 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for merSETA Engineering Learnerships in Johannesburg
Applying for a merSETA learnership is simple but requires attention to detail. Follow these official steps:
1. Visit the merSETA Official Website
Go to www.merseta.org.za.
Under the “Learners” section, look for current learnership opportunities or accredited employers near Johannesburg.
2. Register on the merSETA Learner Portal
Create a learner profile on the merSETA Learner Management System (LMS).
You’ll need:
- Your ID number
- Contact details (email and phone)
- Education history
- Updated CV in PDF or Word format
3. Search for Available Learnerships
Once logged in, browse the available engineering programmes under “Active Learnerships.” Filter by location — Gauteng > Johannesburg.
4. Prepare Required Documents
Before submitting, ensure you have scanned copies (PDF) of:
- Certified ID copy (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copies of your academic results or certificates
- Updated CV (with references)
- Proof of residence
5. Submit the Online Application
Click “Apply” on your chosen learnership, upload your documents, and confirm submission.
You’ll receive an acknowledgment email from merSETA or the host company.
6. Attend Interviews and Assessments
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to:
- Attend a competency test or interview
- Complete a medical or mechanical aptitude test (depending on the field)
7. Sign the Learnership Agreement
Successful candidates sign a tripartite learnership agreement between the learner, employer, and merSETA.
Once signed, your learnership officially begins.
💡 Pro Tip: Increase Your Chances of Selection
- Apply early — many companies close applications within 4–6 weeks.
- Follow up politely via email with HR departments.
- Keep your documents updated and certified.
- Include a motivational letter explaining why you’re passionate about engineering.
- Stay active on LinkedIn — many Johannesburg employers post merSETA openings there.
🏢 Top Companies Offering merSETA Learnerships in Johannesburg
Some reputable companies consistently partner with merSETA to offer engineering learnerships:
| Company | Sector | Typical Learnerships |
| Sasol | Chemical & Industrial | Mechanical, Process, Electrical |
| ArcelorMittal SA | Steel Manufacturing | Fitting & Turning, Welding |
| Transnet Engineering | Rail Transport | Electrical, Mechanical |
| BMW South Africa | Automotive | Mechatronics, Automation |
| Murray & Roberts | Construction | Civil, Mechanical |
| Eskom | Power Generation | Electrical, Instrumentation |
These companies are merSETA-accredited training providers with proven track records of developing skilled artisans.
📜 What You’ll Learn During the Programme
A merSETA engineering learnership blends theory and workplace practice:
🔧 Phase 1: Theoretical Training (TVET College)
You’ll attend classes covering:
- Engineering drawing
- Mathematics and science
- Safety and quality control
- Machine operation principles
⚙️ Phase 2: Workplace Learning
You’ll gain real experience through:
- Machinery setup and maintenance
- Fault finding and repairs
- Reading and interpreting technical diagrams
- Team collaboration in industrial settings
Upon completion, you’ll receive a National Certificate (NQF Level 2–5) recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
💼 Career Opportunities After Completion
Completing a merSETA learnership opens multiple career doors:
| Pathway | Example Roles |
| Employment | Junior Technician, Artisan Assistant, Fitter, Electrician |
| Apprenticeship | Artisan-in-Training (leading to Red Seal qualification) |
| Higher Education | Engineering Diploma or BTech studies |
| Entrepreneurship | Start a small mechanical or electrical repair business |
Many learners are permanently employed by their host companies upon successful completion.
Final Thoughts
A merSETA engineering learnership in Johannesburg is more than just training — it’s a life-changing opportunity to start a professional career in South Africa’s growing manufacturing and engineering sectors.
Whether you’re a school leaver, unemployed youth, or aspiring artisan, this programme provides skills, experience, and qualifications that open real doors to employment.
Start preparing your documents today and visit www.merseta.org.za to check for current openings.