Howden South Africa, a subsidiary of the global giant Chart Industries, has officially opened applications for its 2026 Engineering Apprenticeship Programme. This is a prestigious, four-year commitment specifically designed to transform unemployed South African youth into highly skilled, “Red Seal” ready artisans.
Whether you are interested in heavy fabrication in Johannesburg or critical power station maintenance in Mpumalanga, this programme provides elite mentorship in the mining, energy, and petrochemical sectors. A 4-year apprenticeship here is a global “passport” to the international energy industry.
Chart Industries Apprenticeship: 2026 Fast Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Employer | Howden South Africa (Chart Industries) |
| Duration | 4 Years (Full Apprenticeship) |
| Locations | Booysens (GP), Arnot (MP), and Kendal (MP) |
| Education | Technical Matric (Maths & Science) OR N3 Engineering |
| Closing Date | Apply Immediately (Rolling Admissions) |
Available Trades & Regional Focus
The trades are strategically split by region. Choose the location that matches your specific career goals:
| Trade | Posts | Location | Primary Focus |
| Boilermaker | 2 | Booysens, GP | Structural steel, pressure vessels, and fabrication. |
| Welder | 1 | Booysens, GP | Arc, MIG, and TIG welding to international standards. |
| Mechanical Fitter | 2 | Arnot & Kendal, MP | Machine installation, alignment, and fault diagnosis. |
Technical Insight: The 4-Year “Deep Dive”
Unlike 12-month learnerships, this 4-year journey is an intensive investment in your technical mastery. You will progress through four distinct phases:
- Phase 1: Theory & Fundamentals: Master technical drawing, engineering science, and workshop safety.
- Phase 2: Supervised Practice: Work as an assistant to qualified artisans on live plant floors, handling massive fans and heat exchangers.
- Phase 3: Advanced Operations: Perform complex repairs, diagnostic testing, and precision alignments independently.
- Phase 4: Trade Test Readiness: Intensive preparation for the National Trade Test (Red Seal)—the gold standard for South African artisans.
Mandatory Minimum Requirements
Chart Industries maintains elite engineering standards. To qualify, you must meet one of the following:
- Option 1: Technical Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science (Functional Mathematics is not accepted).
- Option 2: N3 Engineering Certificate with relevant trade-related subjects (e.g., Mechanotechnology, Engineering Drawing).
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen with a clear criminal record.
- Health: Must be medically fit for heavy industrial work, including working at heights or in confined spaces if required.
How to Apply: The Howden/Chart Portal
Howden and Chart Industries utilize a centralized recruitment portal. Ensure your documents are clearly scanned and in PDF format.
- Visit the Portal: Access the Howden South Africa Careers Page.
- Search Apprenticeships: Look for the “2026 Engineering Apprenticeship” listing.
- Upload Your Pack:
- Updated CV (Use the “Artisan-Aptitude” template below).
- Certified Copy of ID.
- Certified Academic Results (Matric or N3 Statement of Results).
- Urgency: Applications are processed as they arrive. If the portal reaches capacity, it will close without notice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is this apprenticeship 4 years long?
Engineering trades like Boilermaking and Mechanical Fitting require thousands of “logged hours” to qualify for a Trade Test. Chart Industries ensures you are not just a “helper,” but a fully competent technician ready for the global market.
2. What is the difference between Booysens and the Mpumalanga sites?
Booysens is a manufacturing hub focused on fabrication (building equipment). Arnot and Kendal are power station sites focused on maintenance (keeping equipment running). Choose Booysens if you like building; choose Mpumalanga if you like troubleshooting.
3. Is there a stipend?
Yes. All apprentices receive a competitive monthly stipend that increases each year as you progress through your phases.
4. What is a “Red Seal” certificate?
It is the National Trade Test certificate. It proves you have met the highest standard of craftsmanship in South Africa and is recognized by employers across the globe.
5. Can I apply if I have an N2?
The minimum requirement is an N3. However, if you are currently finishing your N3, you may apply with your N2 results provided your N3 results are expected before the January 2026 start date.