Experiential Learnership – Mechanical Engineering At Safripol (Durban)

A Complete Guide for Graduates in 2026

If you recently completed your Mechanical Engineering degree in South Africa and you’re struggling to land your first job because companies want “experience”, you’re not alone. One of the biggest challenges facing engineering graduates today is breaking into the industry without prior workplace exposure. That’s where experiential learnerships come in.

Safripol, a major player in South Africa’s manufacturing and polymer industry, is currently inviting applications for the Experiential Learnership – Mechanical Engineering based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This graduate learnership offers young engineers the opportunity to gain practical, on-the-job experience in a real maintenance and industrial environment.

In this detailed guide, we cover everything you need to know about this opportunity, including requirements, duties, salary expectations, application steps, and why this learnership can be a major boost to your Mechanical Engineering career in 2026.

About Safripol South Africa

Safripol is a well-established South African manufacturing company specialising in polymer and plastic products used across various industries such as:

Automotive manufacturing
Construction
Packaging
Consumer goods
Industrial applications

With operations in Durban and Sasolburg, Safripol plays a key role in the local manufacturing economy. The company operates complex industrial machinery and large-scale production plants, making it an ideal environment for Mechanical Engineering graduates to gain hands-on technical exposure.

Completing a learnership at Safripol allows you to experience:

Real manufacturing processes
Mechanical maintenance operations
Industrial equipment and systems
Safety procedures and compliance
Engineering problem-solving in practice

Experiential Learnership – Mechanical Engineering: Key Details

Here’s a quick overview of the vacancy:

Job Title: Experiential Learnership – Mechanical Engineering
Reference Number: SAF260206-1
Closing Date: 17 February 2026
Company: Safripol
Department: Maintenance – Durban
Job Type: Temporary – Graduate Trainee / Learnership
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Minimum Qualification: Matric + BEng/BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Application Method: Online application via Safripol website

This opportunity is ideal for graduates who need experiential training to complete their studies or improve their chances of securing permanent employment in the engineering sector.

Who Should Apply?

The Safripol Mechanical Engineering Experiential Learnership is suitable for:

Mechanical Engineering graduates seeking practical workplace experience
Students who have completed a BEng or BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Graduates aiming to work in maintenance, manufacturing, or industrial engineering
Young professionals who want to strengthen their CV with real-world exposure

If you’ve been applying for Mechanical Engineering jobs with no success due to “no experience”, this learnership can be your stepping stone.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

✅ Matric (Grade 12)
✅ BEng or BSc in Mechanical Engineering
✅ Good communication skills
✅ Ability to interact with people at all levels
✅ Ability to work under pressure
✅ Technical capability and willingness to learn
✅ Strong initiative and problem-solving mindset

No formal work experience is required, making this opportunity accessible to fresh graduates.

Duties and Responsibilities

Successful candidates will receive structured on-the-job training and will support Safripol’s maintenance and technical teams. Typical responsibilities include:

Gaining hands-on experience in a maintenance and industrial environment
Assisting with mechanical maintenance of plant equipment
Supporting engineering teams with projects, studies, and simulations
Learning about mechanical systems used in manufacturing plants
Assisting with troubleshooting and fault-finding
Understanding safety standards and maintenance procedures

This type of exposure prepares graduates for future roles such as Junior Mechanical Engineer, Maintenance Engineer, or Technician.

Salary Expectations for Mechanical Engineering Learnerships in South Africa

Safripol has not published the stipend for this learnership. However, based on current market trends and similar graduate learnerships in South Africa, the estimated monthly stipend is:

💰 Estimated Salary/Stipend: R6,000 – R9,500 per month

The actual amount may vary depending on:

The length of the learnership
Company policy
Budget allocations
Qualification level

While this may be lower than a permanent Mechanical Engineering salary, the experience gained is extremely valuable and often leads to much higher earning potential later.

Why This Learnership Is a Smart Career Move

1. Real-World Engineering Experience

You move from classroom theory to practical application in a real industrial plant.

2. Improved Employability

Employers prefer candidates with workplace exposure. This learnership strengthens your CV.

3. Access to Industrial Equipment

You’ll gain experience with mechanical systems, tools, and machinery used in large manufacturing operations.

4. Networking and Mentorship

You’ll work alongside qualified engineers, artisans, and supervisors who can guide your career path.

How to Apply for the Safripol Mechanical Engineering Learnership

To apply:

Prepare your documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Certified qualification or academic transcript
Visit the official Safripol website:
👉 www.safripol.com OR CLICK THE APPLY NOW BUTTON BELOW
Search for the vacancy using reference number:
SAF260206-1
Complete the online application form and upload your documents.

⏰ Closing Date: 17 February 2026
Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.

Tips to Improve Your Application

Highlight any practical projects or workshops completed during your studies
Mention exposure to maintenance, machinery, or simulations
Keep your CV neat and professional
Write a short, targeted motivation showing your interest in industrial maintenance
Ensure all documents are clear and certified

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a temporary experiential learnership for graduates.

Can diploma holders apply?

The minimum requirement states BEng/BSc in Mechanical Engineering. Diploma holders may not qualify unless specified by Safripol.

Is accommodation provided?

No accommodation or transport allowances have been mentioned.

Will this lead to permanent employment?

There is no guarantee, but many companies consider learners for future roles if vacancies become available.

Final Thoughts

The Safripol Experiential Learnership – Mechanical Engineering (Durban) is an excellent opportunity for graduates who want to enter the maintenance and manufacturing sector. In a competitive job market, practical experience sets you apart. If you meet the requirements, this learnership can be the foundation for a long and successful Mechanical Engineering career in South Africa.

Don’t wait until the last day — apply before 17 February 2026 and take your first step into the engineering industry.