BMW South Africa

About BMW South Africa

BMW South Africa is the local arm of the German carmaker BMW Group. Its head office is in Midrand, but the heart of its work is Plant Rosslyn near Pretoria. The plant has built BMW vehicles for the South African market and for export for decades, and it is a major employer in the Tshwane area.

BMW has also invested heavily in the Rosslyn site over the years. For example, it spent about R73 million on a new training academy that opened in 2018. A plant of this kind relies on well-trained technicians, engineers and business staff, which is why training sits at the centre of the company's local strategy.

How BMW supports training and study

BMW South Africa has trained people at Rosslyn since 1978. The training academy covers about 6,000 square metres and can host around 300 apprentices a year. It also has an accredited trade test centre. Close to 2,000 people who went through the academy have found work at the plant, and many others have joined the wider motor industry.

The main route is technical learnerships and apprenticeships. Recent programmes have included mechatronics and autotronics. Trades taught at the academy include millwright, electrician, fitter and turner, motor mechanic, spray painter and panel beater. Training mixes theory with hands-on practice, and it includes robot programming and electric vehicle skills.

BMW has also advertised student placements and the Yes4Youth work experience programme. University bursaries from BMW South Africa are less widely advertised than its technical training. Therefore, check the official careers site to see what is open in any given year.

Careers at a car plant are much broader than assembly. Engineers, quality inspectors, logistics planners, IT staff and finance teams all play a part. As a result, students from many fields can find a path into the industry. Keep a record of any trade certificates or short courses you complete, because they strengthen later applications. Visit the plant's careers page regularly, since training places are limited and demand is high.

What to know before applying

Technical learnerships have asked for Grade 12 with mathematics and science, often with at least 50% in each subject. A full apprenticeship can last about three years and ends with a trade test. Stipend amounts are not always published, so confirm them in the advert.

Applications are made online through the BMW Group careers portal for South Africa. You will probably create a profile, upload your documents and take online assessments. If shortlisted, you may also face interviews and a medical examination.

BMW South Africa does not charge application fees. As a result, you should avoid anyone who asks for money to secure a place. Keep an eye on the careers page, because intakes open once a year at most and often close quickly.