Lanseria Manufacturing Facility Offers 12-Month Workplace Experience Opportunity for Qualified Millwrights Aged 18 to 34
Published: 2 June 2026
Author: Phindile Zwane
Reviewed By: Manufacturing and Artisan Opportunities Editorial Team
Application Reference: AP-8
South Africa’s manufacturing sector continues to play a critical role in developing technical talent, and global packaging company ALPLA has announced applications for its Millwright YES (Youth Employment Service) Programme 2026.
The 12-month programme, based at ALPLA’s Lanseria plant in Johannesburg North, offers unemployed young people the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience while working alongside experienced maintenance professionals in a modern manufacturing environment.
The opportunity is aimed at qualified Millwrights who have completed a trade test and are looking to strengthen their practical industry experience.
As competition for technical jobs continues to grow, workplace-based programmes such as the YES initiative provide an important pathway for young artisans to gain exposure, build confidence and improve future employability.
What Is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a South African initiative designed to create workplace opportunities for young people who are struggling to gain experience after completing their qualifications.
Many employers require practical experience before offering permanent employment.
However, many young people face the challenge of needing experience in order to secure their first opportunity.
The YES Programme helps bridge this gap by placing participants in real workplace environments where they can develop practical skills and industry knowledge.
For technical trades such as Millwrighting, this experience can be especially valuable.
About ALPLA
ALPLA Group is an international packaging manufacturing company operating in more than 40 countries worldwide.
The company specialises in innovative plastic packaging solutions for industries including:
- Food and beverage
- Personal care
- Household products
- Pharmaceuticals
- Industrial applications
ALPLA’s South African operations continue to invest in skills development, technical training and youth employment initiatives that support the manufacturing sector.
Why Millwrights Remain in Demand
Millwrights are among the most versatile artisans in industry.
They combine electrical and mechanical expertise to maintain, repair and improve production equipment.
In modern manufacturing facilities, Millwrights help ensure machinery operates efficiently and safely.
Their responsibilities often include:
- Equipment maintenance
- Fault finding
- Machinery repairs
- Installation of equipment
- Preventative maintenance
- Production support
Because manufacturing plants depend heavily on reliable machinery, skilled Millwrights remain highly valued across multiple industries.
What Participants Will Learn
The ALPLA YES Programme provides practical exposure to key maintenance activities within a production environment.
Mechanical and Electrical Maintenance
Participants will assist with:
- Mechanical maintenance activities
- Electrical maintenance tasks
- Equipment servicing
- Machinery support
Working alongside experienced professionals allows participants to strengthen practical trade skills.
Breakdown Repairs
Participants will support senior Millwrights during equipment breakdowns.
This may include:
- Identifying faults
- Troubleshooting equipment
- Supporting repairs
- Restoring machinery to operation
Exposure to breakdown maintenance helps develop problem-solving abilities and technical confidence.
Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance plays a critical role in reducing equipment downtime.
Participants will learn how maintenance teams:
- Inspect equipment
- Identify potential issues
- Schedule repairs
- Improve machine reliability
These skills are highly sought after across manufacturing industries.
Equipment Installation and Upgrades
Participants may also gain experience assisting with:
- Equipment installations
- Machinery upgrades
- Commissioning activities
This exposure provides insight into how industrial systems are introduced and maintained within production environments.
Exposure to Modern Maintenance Systems
Manufacturing companies increasingly rely on digital systems to manage maintenance activities.
Participants will gain exposure to:
Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
Including systems such as:
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 (D365)
Participants will learn how maintenance activities are recorded, tracked and managed.
Digital maintenance skills have become increasingly important within modern industry.
Workplace Safety and Quality Standards
Safety remains a top priority within industrial environments.
Throughout the programme, participants will learn to:
- Follow health and safety procedures
- Identify workplace hazards
- Report unsafe conditions
- Support environmental compliance
- Maintain safe working areas
Understanding safety standards is an essential part of any technical career.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all minimum requirements before applying.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be:
✔ Between 18 and 34 years old
Employment Status
Applicants must:
✔ Be unemployed
YES Programme Requirement
Applicants must:
✔ Not have previously participated in the YES Programme
This requirement ensures opportunities are directed toward first-time YES participants.
Educational and Technical Requirements
Successful applicants must possess:
Minimum Qualification
✔ Grade 12 (Matric)
Trade Qualification
✔ Millwright Trade Test Certification
This opportunity is specifically intended for qualified Millwright artisans seeking workplace experience.
Additional Skills and Competencies
The company also seeks candidates who demonstrate:
Strong Organisational Skills
The ability to plan and manage tasks effectively.
Computer Literacy
Basic computer skills are required for maintenance reporting and digital systems.
Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
Teamwork
The ability to work effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Manufacturing environments often require quick responses to technical challenges.
What Makes This Opportunity Valuable?
Many newly qualified artisans face difficulties securing employment immediately after completing their trade qualifications.
Programmes such as this provide:
- Practical workplace exposure
- Industry experience
- Mentorship opportunities
- Technical skills development
- Professional references
- Improved employability
For qualified Millwrights, gaining experience within a large manufacturing operation can strengthen future career prospects significantly.
Career Opportunities After the Programme
Millwrights with manufacturing experience may pursue opportunities in:
Manufacturing
Supporting production facilities and industrial operations.
Food and Beverage Production
Maintaining processing and packaging equipment.
Automotive Manufacturing
Supporting automated production systems.
Mining and Heavy Industry
Maintaining mechanical and electrical equipment.
Engineering Services
Providing technical maintenance and support services.
The combination of a trade qualification and workplace experience is often highly valued by employers.
Expert Insight: Why Artisan Experience Matters
South Africa continues to face shortages of experienced artisans across several sectors.
While obtaining a trade qualification is an important achievement, employers frequently seek candidates who can demonstrate practical exposure in real production environments.
Industry experience helps artisans:
- Improve troubleshooting skills
- Understand workplace standards
- Strengthen safety awareness
- Build confidence on industrial equipment
For young Millwrights, opportunities like the ALPLA YES Programme can provide an important foundation for long-term technical careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the programme?
The programme runs for 12 months.
Where is the placement located?
The opportunity is based at ALPLA’s Lanseria plant in Johannesburg North.
Do I need a Millwright Trade Test?
Yes. A Millwright Trade Test certification is a mandatory requirement.
Can I apply if I previously participated in the YES Programme?
No. Applicants must not have participated in the YES Programme before.
Is previous work experience required?
Previous experience may be advantageous, but the programme is aimed at developing young qualified artisans.
Sources and References
- ALPLA Millwright YES Programme Advertisement (Reference AP-8).
- Youth Employment Service (YES) South Africa.
- Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA).
- South African Artisan Development Strategy.
- Department of Employment and Labour.
Editorial Transparency Statement
This article is based on information released by ALPLA regarding its Millwright YES Programme for 2026. Additional industry context and career guidance have been included to help prospective applicants understand the role, eligibility requirements and potential career pathways associated with the opportunity.
Applicants should verify all programme details directly through the employer’s official recruitment platform before applying. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
