ABB South Africa is calling young graduates to join its Engineer and Graduate Internship programs. Located in Modderfontein, Gauteng, these full-time traineeships provide a unique opportunity for young talents to gain hands-on experience in one of the world’s leading engineering, technology, and innovation companies.
ABB’s commitment to shaping future leaders is evident through its Young Talent Programs, designed to give graduates an impactful start to their careers while contributing to the company’s vision of a smarter and more sustainable world.
Internship Program Structure and Approach: The 70:20:10 Learning Model
ABB’s training programs adhere to a proven learning model that emphasizes practical experience and personal growth:
- Hands-On Learning (70%): Graduates spend most of their time working directly with ABB’s products and systems, engaging in real-world projects to deepen their technical and practical knowledge.
- Social Learning (20%): Trainees work closely with industry experts and leaders who offer guidance, mentorship, and career insights.
- Classroom Training (10%): Formal education continues with face-to-face and online training modules, which include essential knowledge of ABB’s products, industry standards, and business practices.
Beyond technical skills, ABB understands the importance of soft skills in a changing work environment. Throughout the program, trainees learn interpersonal and professional skills that help them thrive in any work environment, enabling them to connect meaningfully, build a personal brand, and enhance their adaptability.
Engineer Internship: Specializations for Engineers
The Engineer internship is tailored for graduates with degrees in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Industrial, or Computer Engineering. ABB offers exposure to diverse engineering functions, with roles that provide in-depth training and mentorship in the following areas:
- Electrical Engineering: Trainees work on the testing of switchgear across primary, secondary, and modular systems, focusing on both electrical and mechanical design aspects.
- Mechanical Engineering: Graduates learn the fundamentals of design, drafting, and the mechanical workings of electrical motors.
- Control and Instrumentation: Trainees gain insight into control systems, field instrumentation, and actuators, alongside design and commissioning of distributed control systems (DCS).
- Industrial Engineering: This role offers exposure to factory operations, time studies, and process improvement initiatives.
- Computer Engineering: Graduates will engage with cutting-edge projects in digital transformation, aligning with ABB’s ABB Ability initiatives that promote the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Internship: Functional Roles Beyond Engineering
ABB South Africa’s Graduate in Training Program welcomes graduates in non-engineering fields who are ready to contribute to ABB’s various business operations. This program is suitable for candidates with degrees in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, Health & Safety, Marketing & Communication, IT, or Information Systems. Specializations under this program include:
- Corporate Marketing and Communication: Graduates work on ABB’s corporate branding, communications, and events.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics: Trainees assist in transport, trade, logistics, and supply chain operations.
- Human Resource Management: Trainees contribute to employee lifecycle management, learning & development, payroll, and industrial relations.
- Finance and Accounting: Participants gain exposure to business controlling, accounts payable, and financial management processes.
- Occupational Health & Safety: Graduates play a role in promoting workplace health and safety initiatives.
- Information Technology and Information Systems: Trainees will work within the IT department, managing processes and supporting IT functions from start to finish.
Qualifications and Requirements
Engineer in Training Qualifications:
- Degree in BSc, BTech, or BEng in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Industrial, or Computer Engineering.
Graduate in Training Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s, BTech, or BCom degree in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, Health & Safety, Marketing, or Communication.
Both programs seek individuals with strong oral and written communication skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn and innovate. Ideal candidates are self-confident, possess leadership skills, and demonstrate excellent interpersonal abilities.
Application Process and Key Details
- Application Link: Interested applicants should submit their applications online through ABB’s official careers page: www.abb.com/careers.
- Supporting Documents: Applicants must attach their academic records. Applications lacking required documentation will not be considered.
- Travel Requirement: Some roles may require travel for sales, service, or commissioning work.
- Compliance: Successful applicants must meet ABB’s local employment requirements and processes.
Safety and Integrity
Safety and integrity form the backbone of ABB’s work culture. Graduates are expected to adhere to ABB’s values by taking accountability for their actions and demonstrating a sense of care for colleagues and the business. ABB emphasizes responsible work behavior, particularly as trainees may be involved in high-stakes projects within industrial and engineering environments.
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By joining ABB South Africa, graduates gain the chance to advance their careers in a global company that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. The company’s commitment to fostering talent ensures that trainees receive not only technical training but also soft skills development that will serve them throughout their careers.
ABB’s influence spans continents, and with every new talent they bring on board, they continue to shape a smarter, safer, and more connected world.