TotalEnergies, a global multi-energy company, has officially opened applications for its 2026 Apprenticeship Programme in Durban. Based at the Lubricants Manufacturing Plant (LMP) at Wharfside and Causeway Road, these apprenticeships are premier “career-launchers” for South Africans looking to move from technical theory into high-level industrial engineering.
This intake offers two specialized streams: Millwright and Instrument Mechanician. Both pathways provide the structured workplace learning required to qualify as a trade-tested artisan in the energy and manufacturing sectors.
TotalEnergies Apprenticeship: 2026 Fast Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Employer | TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa (Pty) Ltd |
| Location | Lubricants Manufacturing Plant, Durban (KZN) |
| Available Streams | Millwright & Instrument Mechanician |
| Duration | Structured Artisan Training (Trade Test Path) |
| Closing Date | Apply ASAP (Shortlisting in progress) |
The Two Technical Pathways
1. Millwright Apprenticeship (Mechanical & Electrical)
The Millwright stream is a “dual-trade” discipline. You will be trained to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair both the mechanical and electrical components of industrial machinery. This is the ideal path for those who enjoy broad maintenance exposure.
2. Instrument Mechanician Apprenticeship (Control Systems)
This stream focuses on the “nervous system” of the plant. You will work with instrumentation, automated control systems, and process maintenance. This is highly relevant for candidates interested in digitalized plant operations and precision engineering.
Mandatory Minimum Requirements
TotalEnergies maintains strict global safety and academic standards. To be considered, you must have less than 3 years of experience and one of the following:
- Matric (NSC): With Mathematics and Physical Science.
- N-Stream: N3, N4, N5, or N6 Engineering qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronic fields.
- Physical Fitness: Must be willing and able to work at heights and in confined spaces.
- HSSEQ Mindset: A total commitment to Health, Safety, Security, Environment, and Quality standards.
Daily Responsibilities & Learning Areas
Apprentices are not just observers; you are part of the active maintenance team. Your daily duties include:
- Safety Compliance: Wearing full PPE and reporting all hazards or “near-miss” incidents.
- Maintenance Support: Assisting qualified artisans with plant repairs and scheduled preventative maintenance.
- Documentation: Diligently completing logbooks and timesheets to track your progress toward your trade test.
- Operational Readiness: Maintaining work areas and specialized engineering equipment.
- Shift Work: Willingness to work overtime or shifts as required by the plant’s production schedule.
How to Apply: The TotalEnergies Careers Portal
TotalEnergies utilizes a global digital recruitment system. Ensure your documents are clearly scanned and in PDF format before applying.
- Millwright Stream: Apply via the TotalEnergies Millwright Portal
- Instrument Mechanician Stream: Apply via the TotalEnergies Instrument Mechanician Portal
Required Documents:
- Updated CV.
- Certified Copy of ID & Proof of Residence.
- Full Academic Record (Matric results and N-certificates).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a Fixed-Term Apprenticeship contract. Its primary goal is to provide you with the training and “hours” necessary to sit for your National Trade Test (Red Seal).
2. What is the “Lubricants Manufacturing Plant”?
TotalEnergies’ Durban plant is a world-class facility where oils, greases, and industrial fluids are blended and packaged. It is a high-tech environment that requires precise mechanical and electronic maintenance.
3. Do I get a stipend?
Yes. All TotalEnergies apprentices receive a monthly stipend and a training allowance. This is structured according to the energy sector’s regulated apprenticeship rates.
4. Why is working at heights/confined spaces mentioned?
Industrial plants are complex structures. Artisans often need to climb silos or enter storage tanks to repair sensors or valves. Physical fitness and lack of vertigo are essential for your safety and the safety of the team.
5. What happens after I finish the apprenticeship?
Once you pass your trade test, you become a Qualified Artisan. This significantly increases your employability in the global energy, mining, and manufacturing sectors.