Howden South Africa, a Chart Industries company, has officially opened applications for its 2026 Engineering Apprenticeship Programme. This is a structured, four-year commitment designed to turn unemployed youth into highly skilled, “Red Seal” ready artisans. Whether you are interested in heavy fabrication in Johannesburg or power station maintenance in Mpumalanga, this programme provides the elite mentorship needed to thrive in the mining, energy, and petrochemical sectors.
Quick Job Facts: 2026 Intake
- Company: Howden South Africa (Chart Industries)
- Duration: 4 Years (Full Apprenticeship)
- Locations: Booysens (GP), Arnot (MP), and Kendal (MP)
- Minimum Education: Technical Matric (Maths & Science) OR N3 Engineering
- Status: Unemployed South African Youth
🚀 Student Desk Expert Insight: Why “Howden/Chart” is Different
An apprenticeship here is a “Passport” to the global energy industry.
- Critical Infrastructure Focus: Howden is world-renowned for air and gas handling. If you are placed at Arnot or Kendal, you will be working on the massive fans and heat exchangers that keep South Africa’s power grid running.
- The 4-Year “Deep Dive”: Most learnerships are only 12 months. This is a 4-year apprenticeship, meaning the company is investing hundreds of thousands of rands in your Trade Test preparation. You aren’t just a helper; you are an artisan-in-training.
- Strategic Locations: The trades are split by region. Gauteng focuses on Fabrication (Boilermaking/Welding), while Mpumalanga focuses on Maintenance (Mechanical Fitting). Choose the location that matches your career goal.
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Available Trades & Locations
| Trade | Number of Posts | Location | Primary Focus |
| Boilermaker | 2 Positions | Booysens, Gauteng | Structural steel, pressure vessels, and fabrication. |
| Welder | 1 Position | Booysens, Gauteng | Arc, MIG, and TIG welding to international standards. |
| Mechanical Fitter | 2 Positions | Arnot & Kendal, MP | Machine installation, alignment, and fault diagnosis. |
The 4-Year Training Journey
- Phase 1: Theory & Workshop Basics: Master technical drawing and engineering science.
- Phase 2: Supervised Practice: Assist qualified artisans on the plant floor.
- Phase 3: Advanced Tasks: Perform complex repairs and diagnostics independently.
- Phase 4: Trade Test Readiness: Intensive preparation for your National Trade Test (Red Seal).
Minimum Requirements
- Education (Option 1): Technical Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Education (Option 2): N3 Engineering Certificate with relevant trade-related subjects.
- Compliance: Must be a South African citizen with a clear criminal record.
- Fitness: Must be medically fit for heavy industrial work.
[STRATEGY] Career Tool: The “Artisan-Aptitude” CV Summary
Howden values “Attention to Detail.” Use this template to show you have the right technical mindset:
“Focused and technically-minded [N3/Matric] graduate with a specialized background in [Mechanical/Fabrication] Engineering. Possesses a strong foundation in Engineering Science and Technical Drawing. Recognized for a methodical approach to problem-solving and a high commitment to workplace safety (SHEQ). Eager to join the Chart Industries Apprenticeship 2026 to master the [Boilermaker/Welder/Fitter] trade and contribute to the operational excellence of Howden South Africa.”
How to Apply Online
Howden and Chart Industries utilize a centralized recruitment portal. Ensure your N3 or Matric results are certified and clearly scanned.
- Application Link
- Required Documents: * Updated CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified Academic Results (Matric or N3 Statement)
- Deadline: Applications are processed as they arrive—apply immediately to secure a spot.
Final Thought: Boilermaking and Mechanical Fitting are currently on South Africa’s Critical Skills List. By completing this 4-year programme at a global firm like Chart Industries, you aren’t just getting a job—you are becoming one of the most employable people in the country. Don’t let this chance pass; submit your application today!
