Learnerships in South Africa are an excellent way to gain practical experience and formal qualifications while earning a stipend. Some learnerships offer higher remuneration compared to others, reflecting the value and demand for specific skills in the job market. This detailed guide explores the highest paying learnerships available in South Africa, covering various sectors from finance to engineering, and provides insights into how you can secure these opportunities.
What is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning program that combines theoretical education with practical work experience. Participants gain hands-on skills while earning a qualification recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Learnerships typically involve:
- Classroom-Based Learning: Courses and workshops that provide theoretical knowledge.
- On-the-Job Training: Practical experience working in a real-world environment.
- Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced professionals.
Learnerships offer a stipend or salary, making them a viable option for those looking to start a career without incurring significant educational debt.
Criteria for High-Paying Learnerships
High-paying learnerships generally meet the following criteria:
- Industry Demand: Learnerships in high-demand industries often offer higher salaries.
- Level of Specialization: Positions requiring specialized skills or advanced qualifications usually come with better pay.
- Company Size and Industry: Large corporations or sectors with high revenue, such as finance and engineering, typically offer higher stipends.
Top High-Paying Learnerships in South Africa
1. Financial Sector Learnerships
a. Investment Banking Learnerships
- Overview: Investment banking learnerships are designed to provide practical experience in financial analysis, trading, and client relations. Major banks and financial institutions offer these programs.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R20,000 – R35,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with strong results in Mathematics and Economics. Some programs may require a degree in finance or related fields.
- Examples: Programs offered by Standard Bank, Absa, and Nedbank.
b. Actuarial Science Learnerships
- Overview: These learnerships involve working with statistical data to assess financial risks and uncertainties. They are often offered by insurance companies and financial institutions.
- Duration: 12-24 months.
- Average Salary: R25,000 – R40,000 per month.
- Eligibility: Requires a Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and additional qualifications in actuarial science or statistics.
- Examples: Old Mutual, Sanlam, and Discovery.
2. Engineering Sector Learnerships
a. Petrochemical Engineering Learnerships
- Overview: These learnerships focus on the production and processing of petrochemical products. Companies in the oil and gas sector offer these opportunities.
- Duration: 18-24 months.
- Average Salary: R30,000 – R50,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Science, and preferably a diploma or degree in engineering.
- Examples: Sasol, Shell, and TotalEnergies.
b. Mining Engineering Learnerships
- Overview: Mining engineering learnerships involve working in the mining sector, focusing on the extraction and processing of minerals.
- Duration: 12-24 months.
- Average Salary: R25,000 – R45,000 per month.
- Eligibility: Requires a Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Science, and further studies or experience in mining engineering.
- Examples: Anglo American, Gold Fields, and Impala Platinum.
3. Information Technology Sector Learnerships
a. Cybersecurity Learnerships
- Overview: Cybersecurity learnerships focus on protecting systems and networks from cyber threats. These positions are highly sought after due to the growing importance of cybersecurity.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R20,000 – R40,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with IT-related subjects and sometimes a diploma or degree in cybersecurity or computer science.
- Examples: IBM, Microsoft, and Cisco.
b. Data Science Learnerships
- Overview: These learnerships involve working with large datasets to derive insights and inform business decisions. Data science is a rapidly growing field with high earning potential.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R25,000 – R50,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Computer Science, and preferably a degree in data science or a related field.
- Examples: Deloitte, SAS, and Google.
4. Healthcare Sector Learnerships
a. Medical Technology Learnerships
- Overview: Medical technology learnerships focus on the use of technology in healthcare settings, including diagnostic equipment and patient care systems.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R18,000 – R30,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Science, and often a diploma or degree in medical technology.
- Examples: Netcare, Mediclinic, and Life Healthcare.
b. Pharmaceutical Learnerships
- Overview: These learnerships involve working in the pharmaceutical industry, focusing on drug development, production, and quality control.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R20,000 – R35,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Science, and preferably a degree or diploma in pharmacy or pharmaceutical sciences.
- Examples: Pfizer, Novartis, and GlaxoSmithKline.
5. Construction Sector Learnerships
a. Civil Engineering Learnerships
- Overview: Civil engineering learnerships focus on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
- Duration: 12-24 months.
- Average Salary: R25,000 – R45,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics and Science, and preferably a diploma or degree in civil engineering.
- Examples: WBHO, Aveng, and Murray & Roberts.
b. Quantity Surveying Learnerships
- Overview: These learnerships involve working with cost estimation, budgeting, and financial management in construction projects.
- Duration: 12-18 months.
- Average Salary: R20,000 – R35,000 per month.
- Eligibility: A Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics, and ideally a diploma or degree in quantity surveying.
- Examples: Turner & Townsend, QS International, and Arup.
How to Secure High-Paying Learnerships
a. Research and Identify Opportunities
Start by researching companies and industries offering high-paying learnerships. Use job portals, company websites, and industry associations to find available programs.
b. Meet Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the learnerships you’re interested in. This may include specific educational qualifications, skills, or work experience.
c. Prepare Your Application
Prepare a professional CV, cover letter, and any other required documents. Highlight your relevant skills, qualifications, and experience. Tailor your application to the specific learnership.
d. Prepare for Interviews and Assessments
Be ready for interviews or assessments that may be part of the selection process. Research the company, practice common interview questions, and be prepared to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
e. Follow Up
After applying, follow up with the company to express your continued interest and inquire about the status of your application.
Conclusion
High-paying learnerships in South Africa offer excellent opportunities to gain valuable experience while earning a competitive salary. By pursuing learnerships in sectors like finance, engineering, IT, healthcare, and construction, you can set yourself on a path to a rewarding and lucrative career. Researching available programs, meeting eligibility requirements, and preparing strong applications will increase your chances of securing a high-paying learnership and achieving your professional goals.