If you have an N2 or N3 Engineering qualification and want to gain real industry experience, the Bidfreight Port Operations Learnership Programme 2026 is one of the best opportunities available in South Africa’s logistics and port operations sector.
This programme is designed to equip unemployed youth with practical mechanical and engineering skills while working in real port environments such as Durban, Richards Bay, Gqeberha, and Saldanha.
📌 About the Learnership
Bidfreight Port Operations (BPO), part of the Bidvest Group, is one of the largest in-port logistics companies in South Africa. The company operates across all major commercial ports and specializes in stevedoring, warehousing, transportation, and terminal operations.
The learnership is a 12-month fixed-term programme combining classroom learning and on-the-job training. Learners gain hands-on exposure to port machinery, cargo handling systems, and mechanical operations.
📍 Location
Training and placement will take place at the following ports:
- Durban (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Richards Bay (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Gqeberha (Eastern Cape)
- Saldanha Bay (Western Cape)
These are some of the busiest ports in South Africa, offering valuable industry exposure.
🛠️ Fields Offered
This intake focuses on Mechanical Engineering and Port Operations, including:
- Mechanical Engineering (N2 / N3 aligned training)
- Port Equipment Maintenance
- Freight Handling & Logistics Operations
- Transport & Terminal Operations
- Basic Engineering Support in Port Environment
Learners will work with machinery such as forklifts, cranes, and cargo handling systems.
✅ Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Bidfreight Port Operations Learnership, applicants must meet the following:
- N2 or N3 Engineering qualification (Mechanical preferred)
- Grade 12 (Matric) is an advantage
- Must be a South African citizen
- Aged between 18 – 29 years
- Must be unemployed
- Physically fit and able to work in port environments
- Willing to work shifts and outdoors
- Good communication and teamwork skills
👉 The programme is aimed at youth who want to build a career in engineering, logistics, and port operations.
📄 Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of N2/N3 certificates
- Matric certificate (if available)
- Proof of residence
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
📧 How to Apply (Direct Application)
📧 Email Application:
recruitment@bidports.co.za
🌐 Online Application Link:
https://forms.gle/Qk3iXcYLK6ykvps66
☎️ Telephone Enquiries (Head Office):
+27 (0)31 302 1800
☎️ Durban Office:
+27 (0)31 274 2400
☎️ Richards Bay Office:
+27 (0)35 797 6260
☎️ Gqeberha Office:
+27 (0)41 582 1720
☎️ Saldanha Office:
+27 (0)22 714 0212
👉 When applying, indicate your preferred location (Durban, Richards Bay, Gqeberha, or Saldanha).
⏳ Closing Date
🟡 Closing Period: May – June 2026 (Current Intake Window)
Previous intakes closed around May, and new intakes are expected to follow a similar timeline.
👉 Apply as early as possible because applications usually close quickly once positions are filled.
💼 What You Will Gain
- 12 months structured workplace training
- Exposure to real port operations
- Mechanical and technical skills development
- National qualification upon completion
- Monthly stipend (learnership allowance)
- Increased chances of employment in logistics and engineering
⭐ Why You Should Apply
This learnership is one of the best entry routes for N2/N3 engineering students into the logistics and maritime industry. It provides:
- Real workplace experience
- Industry-recognised training
- Access to one of South Africa’s largest logistics companies
With ports playing a key role in South Africa’s economy, this experience can open doors to long-term careers in engineering, transport, and operations.
📢 Final Thoughts
The Bidfreight Port Operations Learnership 2026 is a high-value opportunity for young South Africans with N2/N3 qualifications. With multiple locations and strong industry exposure, it offers a solid foundation for building a technical career.
If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents and apply as soon as possible. Opportunities like this are competitive and fill quickly, especially in the engineering field.