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Trades & Artisan

Boilermaker

Cut, shape and weld steel structures, tanks and piping for mines, factories and construction.

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What the job involves

  • Read technical drawings and mark out steelwork.
  • Cut, bend and weld plate and structural steel.
  • Work on mines, plants and construction sites.

School subjects you need

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy accepted. Confirm the exact requirement with the institution you apply to.

Required subjects
  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
  • English
Recommended (helps a lot)
  • Physical Sciences
  • Engineering Graphics & Design

Marks you normally need

Minimum NSC pass
Grade 9 for N1 entry
Indicative APS
Not applicable
Subject percentages institutions look for
  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 40%+

These are indicative ranges for guidance only. Every university, university of technology and TVET college sets its own admission requirements — check the current prospectus of the institution you are applying to.

Study routes

  • TVET N1–N3 plus apprenticeship and trade test
    3–4 years

    Coded welding certificates add substantially to earning power.

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What you could earn

Entry level
R7 000 – R13 000 per month as an apprentice
Mid-career
R22 000 – R38 000 per month qualified
Senior
R45 000 – R80 000 per month (coded welders on shutdowns)

Indicative gross monthly ranges from public South African salary sources. They vary by employer, province and experience, and are not guarantees. Compare all careers.

Where you can study this

Public institutions that commonly offer this field. Confirm the exact programme, its minimum APS and the closing date on the institution's own admissions page.

How to apply, documents and fees

Official sources

Questions learners ask

Isifinyezo / Opsomming

isiZulu: Usika futhi ashisele insimbi ezimayini nasezimbonini.

Afrikaans: Sny, vorm en sweis staal vir myne en fabrieke.

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