James Fisher invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the Trainee Coded Welder and Mechanical Fitter Programme 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Trainee Application Closing Date: 14 October 2026
Trainee Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Contract Duration: 6 months
Employment Type: Full-Time Fixed-Term Contract
Salary: Competitive
About the Trainee Programme
James Fisher is offering a six-month opportunity for a Trainee Coded Welder and Mechanical Fitter within its Defence division.
The successful candidate will support the fabrication, assembly and servicing of company products while working under the guidance of experienced team members.
The programme provides hands-on experience in welding, mechanical fitting and manufacturing operations, while allowing the trainee to develop technical skills and learn industry best practices.
Applicants should note that the position requires security checks.
What You Will Be Doing
The successful trainee will gain practical experience in areas including:
- Assembly, fit-up and welding of frames, tanks, pressure vessels and other assemblies.
- Working from technical drawings, assembly instructions and welding codes.
- Manufacturing components using hand tools and workshop machinery.
- Assembling machines and equipment using drawings, schematics and assembly instructions.
- Completing sub-assembly work.
- Assisting with lifting operations involving forklifts and cranes.
- System alignment and equipment setup.
- Pipe bending and fitting for gas, water and refrigeration systems.
- Pressure testing.
- Oxygen cleaning.
- Insulation fitting.
- Applying corrosion-prevention systems.
- Completing controlled company documentation accurately.
- Working towards production targets and project deadlines.
- Maintaining a clean, organised and safe workshop environment.
- Participating in technical training and development activities.
Requirements
Applicants should have:
- Completed a recognised apprenticeship or training programme in a relevant technical discipline to a minimum of NFQ Level 4, or have equivalent hands-on experience gained in a similar role.
- A strong interest in developing welding and soldering skills.
- An interest in stainless steel TIG welding and stick welding.
- An interest in soldering stainless steel and copper alloys.
- A strong interest in engineering and willingness to learn.
- A commitment to producing work to a high standard.
- An interest in learning about diving equipment and life-support systems.
- Willingness to receive feedback and learn from experienced colleagues and mentors.
- A proactive attitude towards learning and professional development.
- An interest in Quality Assurance, Health and Safety and safe manufacturing practices.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Commitment to completing work safely and efficiently.
What James Fisher Offers
Successful candidates can expect:
- A competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience.
- Access to a provident fund with life insurance after three months of service.
- Career-development opportunities.
- Exposure within an international engineering organisation.
- An inclusive and supportive working environment.
- Experience in engineering projects involving safety, innovation and global operations.
About James Fisher
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across the Energy, Defence and Maritime Transport sectors.
The trainee opportunity falls within the company’s Defence division. James Fisher Defence specialises in underwater capabilities, including diving systems, submarine rescue, hyperbaric solutions and related technologies.
Important Information
Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible. James Fisher states that vacancies may occasionally close before the advertised deadline due to the volume of applications received.
Applicants should therefore avoid waiting until 14 October 2026 to submit their applications.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the James Fisher careers portal.
Click here to apply for James Fisher Trainee Coded Welder and Mechanical Fitter Programme 2026
Applications are scheduled to close on 14 October 2026, although the vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received.