IVANPLATS BEV Battery Maintenance Internship 2026: Programme Overview, Requirements, and Career Value
The IVANPLATS BEV Battery Maintenance Internship 2026 offers electrical engineering graduates hands-on exposure to battery electric vehicle systems in underground mining, with structured technical training and real-world maintenance experience.
Programme Overview
IVANPLATS (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, is advancing the development of its large-scale palladium-rhodium-nickel-copper-gold project near Mokopane in Limpopo. As part of this development, the company is building a highly mechanised underground operation that relies heavily on Battery Electric Vehicle technology as part of its “mine of the future” approach.
The Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Battery Maintenance Internship is a structured 12-month programme designed to introduce aspiring electrical engineers to the maintenance, repair, and performance monitoring of BEV battery systems used in underground mining equipment. The internship focuses on practical exposure rather than classroom learning, allowing interns to work alongside experienced specialists in a real production environment.
This opportunity is suitable for candidates who want to build a strong technical foundation in electrical systems, energy storage technology, and preventive maintenance within the mining sector.
Internship Duration and Role Focus
The internship runs for a fixed period of 12 months. During this time, the intern will work under the guidance of a BEV Specialist and technical teams responsible for electric underground mining machinery.
The primary focus of the role is battery pack and charger maintenance for Epiroc underground BEV machines. The intern will gain experience in fault finding, breakdown support, preventive maintenance, and accurate technical reporting, all within a safety-critical underground environment.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following minimum academic requirements to be considered for the programme:
- N6 in Electrical Engineering
- Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- BSc in Electrical Engineering
In addition to formal qualifications, candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving ability and basic fault-finding skills. Physical fitness is also essential, as the role requires working underground in a mechanised mining environment.
Work Experience Expectations
This internship is designed as an entry-level opportunity. No prior work experience is required to apply. However, candidates who have been exposed to preventive maintenance, electrical troubleshooting, or industrial environments may have an advantage during the selection process.
The programme is structured to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and applied engineering practice.
Key Responsibilities and Learning Areas
Throughout the internship, the successful candidate will be expected to perform a range of technical and support duties, including:
- Complying with all health, safety, and environmental standards and site-specific procedures
- Supporting the BEV Specialist during breakdowns and troubleshooting activities
- Assisting with maintenance, repair, and preventive servicing of battery packs and charging systems
- Performing regular cleaning and inspection of battery packs and chargers
- Keeping accurate records of maintenance work, inspections, repairs, and service activities
- Being available to work standby duties or outside normal working hours when operational needs require it
These responsibilities are designed to expose the intern to both the technical and compliance-driven aspects of modern mining operations.
Employment Equity and Eligibility
Preference will be given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans from communities surrounding the Ivanplats Platreef mine. Applications are restricted to South African citizens and permanent residents.
This approach aligns with the company’s commitment to local skills development and inclusive participation in large-scale mining projects.
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit certified copies of their qualifications, South African ID, and proof of residence as part of the application process.
The closing date for applications is 06 February 2026.
Late applications will not be considered, and candidates who do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful.
Career Value of the Internship
This internship provides rare exposure to battery electric vehicle systems in an underground mining context, an area that is rapidly growing as mines transition to cleaner and more efficient technologies. Interns leave the programme with practical experience in high-voltage battery systems, preventive maintenance planning, and compliance-driven engineering work.
The skills gained are transferable across mining, energy storage, and industrial electrical sectors, making this internship a valuable stepping stone for graduates seeking long-term technical careers.
Conclusion
The IVANPLATS BEV Battery Maintenance Internship 2026 is a focused, practical opportunity for electrical engineering graduates who want hands-on experience with advanced battery technology in a modern mining environment. With no prior experience required and strong exposure to real operational systems, the programme offers a solid foundation for future roles in mining engineering, maintenance, and electric vehicle technology.
