Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Employment Type: Full-Time | Apprenticeship / P1-P2 Programme
Reporting To: Production Manager
Intake: 2025 / 2026
About ABB – Powering a More Sustainable Future
At ABB, we are driven by a bold purpose: to help industries run leaner, cleaner, and more efficiently. Across the globe, our technologies are shaping the future of electrification, automation, motion, and robotics. We operate at the intersection of engineering excellence and sustainability, enabling businesses and communities to outperform while reducing environmental impact.
Progress at ABB is not optional—it is expected. But progress is never a solo journey. When you join ABB, you become part of a global network of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who support one another in driving meaningful change. Growth takes resilience, commitment, and curiosity. At ABB, you will be challenged, empowered, and supported every step of the way.
This is more than a workplace. It is a place where your ambition is valued, your ideas matter, and your contribution helps keep the world moving.
Our Values and Culture
ABB’s culture is built on four core values:
Care – We care about people, safety, quality, and the communities we serve.
Courage – We challenge the status quo and take bold steps toward innovation.
Curiosity – We embrace learning, ask questions, and continuously improve.
Collaboration – We succeed together by working across teams, cultures, and disciplines.
These values guide how we work, how we lead, and how we treat one another. ABB is deeply committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. We believe that different perspectives strengthen our teams and enable better solutions for the world’s most complex challenges.
About the Apprenticeship and P1/P2 Programme
The ABB Apprenticeship and P1/P2 Programme is designed to develop the next generation of engineering professionals by combining structured learning with real-world, hands-on experience. This programme is ideal for motivated graduates and students who are ready to transition from academic learning into practical, industry-based development.
Our Young Talent Programmes are built on the 70:20:10 learning model, ensuring a balanced and effective development journey:
70% Hands-on Experience: Learning by doing through practical tasks, on-the-job training, and real project involvement.
20% Learning Through Interaction: Mentorship, coaching, feedback, and collaboration with experienced professionals and peers.
10% Formal Learning: Classroom-based training, technical courses, and structured development sessions.
This holistic approach ensures that participants not only gain technical expertise but also develop professional, interpersonal, and leadership skills essential for long-term career success.
Programme Purpose and Objectives
The primary goal of the Apprenticeship and P1/P2 Programme is to equip young engineers with industry-relevant skills, technical competence, and professional confidence.
Participants will gain exposure to ABB’s operations, systems, safety standards, and quality requirements while contributing meaningfully to business objectives.
By the end of the programme, successful candidates will have:
Practical engineering experience aligned with their field of study
A strong understanding of industrial processes and standards
Enhanced problem-solving and analytical skills
Improved communication and teamwork capabilities
A solid foundation for future career growth within ABB or the broader engineering sector
Your Role and Responsibilities
As an Apprentice or P1/P2 participant at ABB, you will play an active role within your assigned division. Under the guidance of experienced leaders and technical specialists, you will contribute to daily operations while steadily building your competence and confidence.
Your responsibilities will include:
Supporting operational and production activities within your department
Performing tasks and assignments as directed by your supervisor or mentor
Assisting with technical testing, design, drafting, or maintenance activities
Collaborating with cross-functional teams and learning from different disciplines
Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges
Adhering to ABB’s safety, quality, and compliance standards at all times
Participating in training sessions, evaluations, and professional development initiatives
You will be encouraged to take initiative, ask questions, and actively engage in your learning journey while aligning your development with ABB’s strategic goals.
Fields of Specialisation – 2025/2026 Intake
ABB is currently seeking candidates in the following disciplines:
Electrical Engineering (P1/P2 Programme)
Participants in Electrical Engineering will gain comprehensive exposure to switchgear systems and related technologies.
This includes hands-on involvement in:
Testing of switchgear across various stages, including primary, secondary, modular, and commissioning phases
Understanding electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control systems
Exposure to both electrical and mechanical design aspects of switchgear systems
Assisting with troubleshooting, inspections, and quality assurance processes
This role provides an excellent foundation for students pursuing a career in electrical engineering within industrial and manufacturing environments.
Mechanical Engineering (Apprenticeship Programme)
Mechanical Engineering Apprentices will gain practical exposure to the design, drafting, and operational principles of electric motors and mechanical systems.
Key learning areas include:
Basic mechanical design and technical drafting
Understanding the electrical and mechanical operation of electric motors
Exposure to manufacturing processes, assembly, and testing
Supporting maintenance, inspections, and performance evaluations
This apprenticeship offers a structured pathway to develop core mechanical engineering skills while working in a technologically advanced environment.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the ABB Apprenticeship and P1/P2 Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Requirements
Mechanical Engineering: N5–N6 qualification (for Apprenticeship)
Electrical Engineering: National Diploma (NDip) students requiring P1/P2
Additional Requirements
No more than two (2) years of working experience
A minimum average of 65% across academic studies
South African citizenship (mandatory)
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
Demonstrated passion for engineering and technical learning
Personal Attributes
A growth mindset with a strong commitment to continuous learning
Ability to solve problems creatively and think innovatively
Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills
High levels of motivation, self-confidence, and professionalism
Leadership potential and a proactive approach to responsibility
How to Apply
Please note that only applications submitted through ABB’s official online recruitment system will be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Applicants must upload the following documents:
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Certified copy of South African ID
Academic transcript
Qualification certificate or proof of completion (where applicable)
To apply or learn more about ABB careers, visit www.abb.com and navigate to the careers section.
What’s in It for You?
At ABB, we believe that people perform best when they can bring their full selves to work. As part of this programme, you will benefit from:
Hands-on exposure to world-class engineering technologies
Structured learning and mentorship from experienced professionals
A supportive, inclusive, and innovative work environment
Opportunities to build a strong professional network
A platform to launch a meaningful and sustainable engineering career
Your work at ABB will have real impact—on projects, on people, and on the future of industry.
More About ABB
ABB operates in more than 100 countries and employs thousands of people who are passionate about shaping the future of technology and sustainability. We are proud of our diverse workforce and are committed to creating opportunities for young talent to thrive.
Could this be your story?
Take the first step toward a career that makes a difference.
Apply today and start building your #MyABBStory.
