AECI Limited Chemical Process Operator Learnership 2026: Entry-Level Plant Training for Youth

AECI Limited has opened a Chemical Process Operator Learnership for 2026 in Modderfontein, Gauteng. This opportunity is for young people who want to start a career in the chemical industry and learn how a production plant works.
If you enjoy practical work and you can follow safety rules, this learnership could be a strong first step. It combines training, workplace experience, and daily plant exposure.
About the Organisation
AECI Limited is a well-known South African chemicals group. The business supports major industries such as mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure.
AECI also focuses on safety and responsible operations. Because chemical plants are high-risk environments, the company places strong attention on rules, procedures, and compliance.
About the Learnership Opportunity
This learnership is linked to NQF Level 2 unit standards in chemical process operations. In simple terms, it is structured training that helps learners build real plant skills over time.
At first, you will operate under the supervision of a qualified plant operator. Later, once you are declared competent, you may manage parts of the process more independently.
Who Should Apply
This programme is best suited to applicants who want hands-on industrial experience. It also suits people who can stay focused, work carefully, and follow instructions.
You should be comfortable working in a plant environment. That includes working at heights or in confined spaces when required.
Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify, you must meet these requirements:
Education
You must have Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science.
Age
You must be between 18 and 25 years old.
Forklift licence and medical fitness
You must:
- Have a valid forklift driver’s licence
- Be medically fit to drive a forklift
- Stay medically fit so your licence can be renewed when needed
Computer skills
You need basic computer skills, including:
- Data entry
- Basic Microsoft Office
What You Will Do During the Learnership
This learnership includes practical plant work. Your responsibilities will include the following.
Chemical process training
You will complete NQF 2 unit standards chemical process operation training.
Handling materials and containers
You will help with:
- Filling and emptying bags, drums, and bulk containers
- Loading and offloading bulk bags and raw materials
- Loading and offloading bulk liquid chemicals
Plant support and housekeeping
You will:
- Keep plant areas clean and organised
- Support plant operations while supervised by a qualified operator
Documentation and accuracy
You must:
- Complete production and process documents accurately
- Record information correctly and on time
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Working safely in high-risk areas
You may be required to work:
- At heights
- In confined spaces
Because of this, you must maintain medical fitness for a chemical plant environment.
Shifts, overtime, and instructions
You must be willing to:
- Work shifts
- Work overtime when required
- Follow instructions from the Team Leader
Safety, quality, and compliance
You must uphold all internal and external:
- SHEQ guidelines
- PSM guidelines
What You Can Gain From This Opportunity
This learnership can help you build real workplace confidence. You will learn how plant teams work, how to follow production steps, and how to handle materials safely.
Most importantly, you will gain practical experience in a chemical plant environment. That experience can strengthen your future career options in operations and manufacturing.
How to Apply
To apply, you must submit your application through AECI’s official careers website:
Closing Date
A closing date was not provided in the advert, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The AECI Limited Chemical Process Operator Learnership 2026 is a practical training opportunity for young people who want to enter the chemical industry. It focuses on real plant exposure, safety-driven work, and structured NQF Level 2 process training.
If you meet the requirements, have the correct forklift licence, and you can handle a regulated plant environment, this learnership could be a strong start.




