12-Month Structured Development Programme | Automotive Industry

The Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC) is inviting graduate applications for its 2026 Graduate Programme, a 12-month structured opportunity offering practical workplace experience, mentorship, and professional development within South Africa’s automotive manufacturing sector.

AIDC-EC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), serving as the province’s institutional vehicle for growing and strengthening the automotive industry. Graduates will be placed at operational sites in Gqeberha or East London, giving them direct exposure to one of the country’s most important industrial corridors.

Disciplines Recruiting

Engineering and Technical

• Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Quality Management
• Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Human Resources

• Human Resource Management
• Human Resource Development
• Industrial Psychology

Finance

• Accounting
• Financial Management
• Auditing

Marketing and Communications

• Marketing
• Digital Communication
• Public Relations

What the Programme Offers

Over 12 months, graduates will be exposed to automotive manufacturing processes, engineering systems, quality assurance, financial administration, human capital management, and corporate communications, depending on their field of study. The programme includes:

• Structured professional mentoring and workplace coaching
• Practical, hands-on industry exposure
• Skills transfer from experienced professionals
• Continuous learning opportunities designed to build long-term career readiness

This is not short-term placement — it is a deliberate investment in developing future professionals through guided, real-world experience.

Qualification Requirements

Applicants must hold one of the following, relevant to their chosen discipline:

• National Diploma (NQF Level 6)
• Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7)
• Honours Degree (NQF Level 8)

Both university and TVET graduates are encouraged to apply where their qualifications align with the listed disciplines.

Employment Equity

In line with its Employment Equity Plan, AIDC-EC will give preference to persons with disabilities, women, and previously disadvantaged individuals.

How to Apply

Submit the following documents:

• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Contactable references

Applications must be emailed to recruitment@aidcec.co.za

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who have not received feedback within eight weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.

Closing Date

27 July 2026

Graduates are encouraged to apply well ahead of the deadline.

APPLY NOW: recruitment@aidcec.co.za