Air Products South Africa is offering a 12-month learnership programme for unemployed youth who want to build a career in chemical production and manufacturing. This opportunity is based at the company’s Kempton Park facility in Gauteng and focuses on training future machine operators in a structured industrial environment.
With only five positions available, the programme is highly competitive and aimed at candidates who are serious about developing technical skills in the petrochemical and manufacturing industry.
Participants will receive a monthly stipend of R4,500 while gaining hands-on workplace experience in a real production setting.
About the Air Products Learnership 2026
The Air Products Learnership is designed to train Chemical Production Machine Operators through a combination of theoretical learning and practical workplace experience.
Air Products is a global industrial gases company that produces essential gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. These products are used in healthcare, manufacturing, food processing, and many other industries.
In South Africa, the company plays an important role in skills development by offering structured learnerships that help young people enter technical careers.
What the learnership will teach you
This programme focuses on practical skills required in a chemical production environment. Learners will gain exposure to real industrial operations and safety procedures.
Chemical production processes
Participants will learn how industrial gases are produced and handled in a controlled environment.
Machine operation
Learners will be trained to operate specialised production machines safely and efficiently.
Health and safety compliance
A strong focus is placed on workplace safety, especially in chemical production environments where strict standards must be followed.
Quality control
Participants will learn how to monitor production quality and ensure standards are maintained.
Workplace skills
The programme also builds teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills needed in industrial settings.
Who can apply for the Air Products Learnership
Applicants must meet specific requirements to be considered for this opportunity:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have a valid Matric certificate
- Must have passed Mathematics and Science
- Must be between 22 and 30 years old
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Must not have completed a previous learnership programme
- Must live within approximately 40km of Kempton Park
- Must have good communication and teamwork skills
This opportunity is specifically designed for entry-level candidates with strong academic foundations in science and mathematics.
Documents required for application
Applicants must prepare a complete application package, including:
- Updated CV with correct contact details
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate showing Mathematics and Science
- Proof of residential address
- Any additional certificates or training records
Incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.
How to apply for the learnership
Applications must be submitted through the Careers24 online platform.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the Air Products Chemical Production Machine Operator Learnership
- Search for reference number 2356985 or the Air Products Chemical Production Machine Operator Learnership
- Read the full job requirements carefully
- Create an online profile if required
- Upload your CV and supporting documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
Only online applications will be accepted.
Closing date
The closing date for applications is 27 June 2026.
Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Why this learnership is important
The manufacturing and petrochemical industry is one of South Africa’s strongest industrial sectors, but it is often difficult for young people to enter without experience.
This learnership provides structured training inside a real production facility, giving learners exposure to equipment, processes, and safety standards used in the industry.
Beyond technical training, the programme also helps participants build confidence, discipline, and workplace readiness.
The monthly stipend of R4,500 also supports learners financially during the training period.
Final thoughts
The Air Products Learnership 2026 is a valuable opportunity for young South Africans who want to enter the manufacturing and chemical production industry. With only five positions available, competition will be high, making early and complete applications essential.
For candidates with strong Mathematics and Science backgrounds, this programme can serve as a powerful stepping stone into a long-term technical career.
