Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is inviting unemployed youth to apply for their NQF Level 3 Learnership at the world-class Prospecton Manufacturing Plant. This is a prestigious entry point into the automotive industry, blending technical theory with high-stakes practical experience.
Key Details
- Location: Prospecton, Durban, KZN.
- Stipend: Approx. R6,000 per month (based on industry reports).
- Qualification: National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level 3 Certificate.
- Closing Date: 30 January 2026.
Minimum Requirements
- Matric / Technical Matric: Must include Mathematics and Physical Science (or Engineering Science).
- OR National Technical Certificate: N3, N4, N5, or N6.
- Bonus Subjects: Electrical/Mechanical/Motor Trade Theory, Mechanical Drawing, or Graphical Design.
What You Will Learn
- Advanced Manufacturing: Machine operation, assembly, and welding fundamentals.
- Maintenance Skills: Use of hand tools, surface preparation, and marking off.
- Workplace Safety: Firefighting, emergency response, and OHS standards.
- Teamwork: Operating within the world-famous Toyota Production System (TPS).
Career Advice for Automotive Learners
- Embrace “The Toyota Way”: Toyota values Kaizen (continuous improvement). In your application and daily work, show that you are always looking for ways to make processes safer or more efficient.
- Safety First, Always: In a manufacturing plant, safety is more than a rule—it’s the culture. If you are invited for a site visit or practical test, never touch equipment without permission and always follow PPE protocols strictly.
- Path to Artisan Status: View this NQF Level 3 as a foundation. Successful learners often transition into Apprenticeships (NQF Level 4) to become fully qualified Fitters, Turners, or Electricians.
Possible Interview & Assessment Questions
Technical & Practical Readiness
- “Can you explain the difference between a mechanical and an electrical fault in a simple machine?”
- “How would you handle a situation where you notice a teammate ignoring a safety protocol on the production line?”
- “Explain a time you had to follow a complex set of technical instructions. What was the result?”
Behavioral Questions (The Toyota Fit)
- “Toyota relies on the ‘Toyota Production System.’ Why is teamwork more important than individual speed in a factory?”
- “Describe a time you failed at a task. How did you identify the mistake and fix it?”
- “Where do you see your technical career in 5 years? (Hint: Mention wanting to become a qualified Artisan).”
Physical & Practical Assessment Tip
Expect a Hand-Eye Coordination Test. You may be asked to sort small parts, follow a diagram to build a basic structure, or identify specific tools. Stay calm and focus on accuracy over speed.