SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026
High-Paying Aviation Careers | Paid Training | Government Learnerships
Closing Date: 03 February 2026
Reference Number: SAA260126-2
Job Title: SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026
Division: SAAT
Business Unit: Human Capital
Job Type: Technical Apprenticeship
Number of Positions: 45
Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa
🔧 About the Programme
South African Airways Technical (SAAT) is offering one of South Africa’s most sought-after government-funded learnership programmes for 2026. This paid apprenticeship programme provides young South Africans with free technical training and the chance to earn while you learn in the fast-growing aerospace and aviation industry.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates looking for high-paying technical jobs in South Africa, long-term career growth, and permanent employment opportunities within a national airline. Successful applicants will receive structured theoretical and practical training in scarce skills careers that lead to stable government jobs and well-paid artisan roles.
🛠 Trades Offered (Choose Two in Order of Preference)
Aircraft Welding
Welding and repairing aircraft and engine components, plasma spraying, heat treatment, and manufacturing of parts and tooling. This trade leads to high-income trades and strong demand in aircraft maintenance training careers.
Aircraft Spray Painting
Corrosion prevention, repairing paint coatings, applying protective coatings, and painting aircraft interiors and exteriors. A solid pathway into aviation technician apprenticeships and airline technical jobs.
Aircraft Trimming
Manufacturing, repairing, inspecting, and maintaining aircraft interiors and survival equipment. A specialised skill linked to aerospace technician careers and technical careers with high salary.
Aircraft Composite Structures
Manufacturing, repairing, inspecting, and maintaining aircraft composite components. This is one of the most in-demand aerospace engineering training fields globally.
🎓 Qualifications & Experience
Option 1: Grade 12 (Matric)
50% or Level 4 Pure Mathematics
50% or Level 4 Physical Science
English (symbol required)
OR
Option 2: N3 Certificate
-50% pass in Mathematics
-50% pass in Engineering Science
This programme is part of South Africa’s SETA-funded learnerships and accredited training programmes, designed to prepare learners for vocational education and real-world aviation work.
💡 Knowledge, Skills & Attributes
Knowledge & Skills
Ability to read and write in English (essential)
Basic understanding of technical or mechanical concepts (advantageous)
Ability to follow instructions accurately
Good communication skills
Attributes
Team player with the ability to work well with others
Strong attention to detail
Willingness to learn and adapt in a technical environment
Good problem-solving attitude
Responsible and safety-conscious mindset
These qualities are essential for career development training, engineering training opportunities, and long-term success in artisan jobs in South Africa.
📄 Application Requirements
Applicants must attach the following certified documents:
-Certified copy of ID and CV
-Certified copies of all qualifications (Matric or N3 certificate)
Any additional supporting documents (if applicable)
📢 Important Information
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Assessments include interviews, psychometric tests, medicals, security clearance, and background checks. All interviews and assessments will take place in Gauteng.
Use your permanent residential address when applying. If you do not hear from SAAT by 30 April 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.
💰 Why Apply?
The SAA Technical Apprenticeship / Learnership Programme 2026 offers:
Paid training programmes
Monthly stipend learnership benefits
No tuition training programmes
Entry into aviation engineering jobs
Salary after apprenticeship opportunities
Long-term career growth
Access to high-paying aviation careers
A pathway to permanent employment opportunities
This is one of the top youth employment programmes for candidates seeking funded learnership programmes, technical careers with high salary, and aircraft maintenance training in South Africa.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (High-CPC Triggers)
How much do aviation apprentices earn in South Africa?
Aviation apprentices typically receive a monthly stipend during training, with competitive salary after apprenticeship depending on trade specialisation.
Are SAA learnerships paid?
Yes. This is a paid apprenticeship programme offering earn-while-you-learn benefits and funded technical training.
Which technical trades pay the most in South Africa?
High-paying trades include aircraft welding, composite structures, and aviation maintenance — all offered in this programme.