AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 offers 40 positions for aspiring tractor and earthmoving mechanics. Check requirements and apply.
If you have completed Grade 12, hold a valid driver’s licence and want to build a career working with agricultural or earthmoving machinery, the AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship 2026 may be worth considering.
AFGRI Equipment is recruiting 40 apprentices for training towards careers as Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics. The opportunity is available at multiple locations in South Africa and combines practical workplace experience with formal technical training.
The official AFGRI vacancy lists the reference number as AO-2345 and gives 30 September 2026 as the closing date.
This is not simply a short training course. It is a structured apprenticeship designed to develop practical mechanical skills while candidates complete the training required for a technical trade.
AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026 at a glance
| Opportunity | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | AFGRI Equipment |
| Position | Apprenticeship x40 |
| Reference | AO-2345 |
| Location | South Africa |
| Training period | 3 years |
| Fields | Tractor Mechanic / Earthmoving Mechanic |
| Contract | 3 years, with a maximum period of 4 years |
| Closing date | 30 September 2026 |
| Work level | Student/Graduate |
| Job type | Contract |
| Salary | Market related |
The information above is based on the current AFGRI vacancy.
What does the AFGRI apprenticeship involve?
The programme is designed for people who want to develop practical skills in the maintenance and repair of machinery.
According to AFGRI, apprentices train towards becoming either Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics. Their duties can include repairing and maintaining relevant equipment, assisting with stock control, providing customer service and completing general workplace duties.
This makes the opportunity particularly relevant to applicants who are interested in mechanical work and want experience in an actual workshop environment.
AFGRI has operated as a John Deere agency since 1962 and says its workshops service agricultural equipment as well as construction, forestry, golf and turf equipment. Its listed South African branch network covers numerous locations.
How the three-year training programme works
One of the important things applicants should understand before applying is that the apprenticeship involves both workplace exposure and formal learning.
The first six months are a probation period. During this stage, both AFGRI and the apprentice can assess whether the arrangement is suitable for a longer-term training relationship.
After probation, the formal apprenticeship training can include:
- Practical training at an appropriate training institution where required
- College-based distance learning where applicable
- Saturday classes where required
- Workplace training
- Product training from suppliers or AFGRI specialists
- Internal training provided by AFGRI specialists
AFGRI states that apprentices may be contracted through AgriSETA or MerSETA, depending on the applicable training arrangement.
This is important because applicants should understand that an apprenticeship requires a sustained commitment to both practical work and theoretical study.
Who can apply for the AFGRI apprenticeship?
The academic requirements are particularly important for this opportunity.
Applicants must have Grade 12 with the required subjects specified by AFGRI. The vacancy states that candidates must have passed:
- English
- Mathematics or Technical Mathematics
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted in place of Mathematics or Technical Mathematics.
AFGRI also lists the following as advantageous, rather than compulsory:
- Engineering or Technical Science
- Physical Science
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Diesel Trade Theory
- Motor Trade Theory
In addition to the academic requirements, applicants need a valid driver’s licence, good communication skills, administrative skills and basic computer literacy.
If you are also looking for other practical training opportunities, you can explore our Learnerships category for more programmes, requirements and application information.
A useful eligibility check before applying
Before spending time on the application, check these points carefully:
Do you have Grade 12?
If yes, continue to the next requirement.
Did you pass English and Mathematics or Technical Mathematics?
If you only have Mathematical Literacy instead of Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, the official vacancy indicates that you do not meet this particular requirement.
Do you have a valid driver’s licence?
This is listed as a minimum requirement.
Are you comfortable with practical mechanical work and technical learning?
The programme involves workshop duties, technical training and ongoing learning, so applicants should understand the nature of the opportunity before applying.
What skills is AFGRI looking for?
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically mean that an applicant will be selected.
AFGRI says it is looking for candidates who are highly motivated, pay attention to detail, work effectively as part of a team, are goal-oriented and can meet deadlines.
These qualities matter in a technical environment because mechanical work requires candidates to follow instructions carefully, learn from experienced personnel and take responsibility for the quality of their work.
Applicants should therefore avoid treating the application as simply a matter of uploading a CV. The screening and assessment questions should be completed carefully and honestly.
AFGRI says applicants may need at least 30 minutes to complete the screening and assessment questions.
Where are the apprenticeship opportunities available?
The vacancy is listed for South Africa, with AFGRI providing a long list of branches.
The listed locations include places such as:
- Bethal
- Bethlehem
- Brits
- Delmas
- Middelburg
- Polokwane
- Bellville
- Worcester
- George
- Kempton Park
- Tzaneen
- Nelspruit
- Newcastle
- Pietermaritzburg
- Empangeni
- Kokstad
These are examples from the official vacancy; applicants should check the complete listing before deciding whether the available locations suit them.
What happens after you apply?
Submitting an application does not guarantee appointment.
AFGRI states that learners must make themselves available for the company’s interview and assessment process. The company may therefore use further assessments to determine which applicants progress through the recruitment process.
The employer also states that applicants who have not heard from AFGRI within 30 days after the closing date may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.
This means applicants should keep their contact details up to date and regularly monitor the communication channels they provide during the application process.
Is the AFGRI apprenticeship free?
AFGRI’s vacancy contains an important condition concerning training costs.
The company states that training is free of charge if the apprentice passes the relevant training. However, failed subjects or phases must be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost and time.
There are also contractual obligations that applicants should understand before accepting an apprenticeship.
The official vacancy states that the apprenticeship is subject to a three-year contract. If an apprentice withdraws during the apprenticeship or required work-back period, repayment of training costs may apply. The stated work-back period is equal to the time taken to qualify, calculated in years. The apprenticeship contract cannot exceed four years.
Therefore, applicants should read the employment and apprenticeship terms carefully before accepting an offer.
How to apply for the AFGRI Apprenticeship 2026
Applications should be made through AFGRI’s official recruitment process rather than through an intermediary.
The AFGRI vacancy directs applicants to the company’s careers platform. Applicants should:
- Visit the AFGRI careers page.
- Look for the apprenticeship vacancy.
- Confirm that the position corresponds with reference AO-2345.
- Select the application option.
- Complete the required screening and assessment questions.
- Provide accurate information and submit the application.
AFGRI specifically instructs applicants to complete the screening and assessment questions to the best of their own knowledge.
Official application route: AFGRI Careers and Apprenticeship Application
Important: SAFutureLink is not AFGRI Equipment and is not involved in the recruitment or selection process. Applicants should use the official AFGRI application channel and should not pay anyone who claims to guarantee an apprenticeship.
AFGRI Apprenticeship closing date
The official vacancy gives the closing date as:
30 September 2026
Because applications close on a specified date, candidates should not leave the application until the final day. Give yourself enough time to check your information and complete the screening and assessment questions properly.
Frequently asked questions
How many AFGRI apprenticeship positions are available?
The vacancy is for 40 apprenticeship positions.
What trades can apprentices train for?
The programme is aimed at training candidates towards becoming Tractor Mechanics or Earthmoving Mechanics.
How long does the apprenticeship last?
The apprenticeship is structured around three years of in-service training. The contract cannot exceed four years if the apprentice has not qualified within that period.
Can someone with Mathematical Literacy apply?
The official vacancy specifically states that Mathematical Literacy is not accepted in place of Mathematics or Technical Mathematics.
Is previous experience required?
The current vacancy’s listed minimum requirements do not specify previous work experience as a requirement. Applicants should nevertheless make sure they meet all the stated requirements before applying.
What happens during the first six months?
The first six months serve as a probation period, during which both the apprentice and AFGRI can assess suitability for the longer-term arrangement.
Does AFGRI cover training costs?
AFGRI states that training is free if the relevant training is successfully completed. Failed subjects or phases may have to be repeated at the apprentice’s own cost and time.
Before you submit your application
A strong application starts with checking whether the opportunity genuinely matches your circumstances.
Make sure you have the required Grade 12 subjects, a valid driver’s licence and the other minimum requirements. Read the apprenticeship conditions carefully, particularly the provisions concerning training costs, the work-back period and the maximum contract period.
Most importantly, use the official AFGRI recruitment channel rather than relying on a third party to submit an application for you.
For readers interested in other practical training opportunities, our Learnerships category provides additional information about available programmes, requirements and application processes.
Final reminder
The AFGRI Equipment Apprenticeship is a structured technical training opportunity rather than a conventional entry-level office job. Candidates should therefore apply only if they are prepared for practical workshop work, formal technical learning and the responsibilities that come with an apprenticeship.
The current AFGRI listing remains open until 30 September 2026 and is for 40 apprenticeships across South Africa.
Always verify the vacancy and application instructions on AFGRI’s official recruitment platform before submitting your information, as recruitment details can change.