Engineering company Hatch is seeking to employ participants into its 2026 Graduate Programme, offering young mechanical engineers the opportunity to work on professional projects based in Johannesburg. The intake is suitable for persons at the start of their careers, and the entry requirements are specific to the vacancy.
The post was advertised on 8 September 2026 and has reference number Requisition ID 99164, which can be used to find the vacancy when searching in Hatch’s recruitment portal.
Who can apply
This is a South African citizens–only vacancy, and the target audience is final-year students with qualifications in BSc or BEng in Mechanical Engineering, and engineering graduates from a recognised tertiary establishment.
In addition to the relevant degree, there are a number of hard requirements that applicants must satisfy:
- An academic average of 65% or above.
- Not more than 1 years’ worth of working experience.
- Willingness to work in any province of South Africa, and not only in Gauteng.
- A recent, full academic transcript attached to the application.
The restriction concerning work experience is particularly important, as it determines that the vacancy is only open to aspiring professionals who have not yet accumulated considerably more than a year’s worth of working experience. If one is in their final year of study, the most recent transcript is still relevant, as Hatch considers the academic standing of an applicant at the time of submission.
What the programme offers
Graduates who successfully secure the position will join Hatch’s Mechanical Engineering division, which employs professional engineers, designers and technologists to manage the design, building and commissioning of facilities. This entails that the work will involve practical engineering, rather than theoretical research.
In the information provided by the employer, it is noted that graduates may work in any of the sectors in which Hatch operates, including mining and metals, energy, infrastructure and the digital industry, depending on the needs of the business and the interest of the applicant.
According to the vacancy details, graduates will receive mentorship from professionals in the field, as well as take part in local Professional Development Programs designed to facilitate the technical development of new engineers, and assist them in adjusting to the professional environment.
As far as the international aspect is concerned, it is best to temper expectations. The position is based in Johannesburg, and although Hatch notes that graduates may have the opportunity to gain project experience not only in South Africa but also abroad, and collaborate with other professionals in the group’s international network, this will depend on the nature of the projects that one takes on.
Location and mobility
The vacancy that was advertised is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. However, it is noted that the applicant must be flexible as to location and able to work in any province of South Africa.
If travelling and relocating is not an option, this is the time to reconsider, as mobility is a requirement of the position.
Why it matters for graduates
For mechanical engineering students and recent graduates, graduate positions at organisations like Hatch represent a valuable opportunity to obtain the necessary experience and guidance to eventually perform as a registered professional engineer.
The nature of such programs is conducive to the establishment of the practical skills and mentorship culture that is needed for the advancement of engineers in their careers.
The drawback of this particular vacancy is the competitiveness of the application process. With a minimum academic average of 65%, a citizenship requirement and the restriction regarding the amount of working experience, it is unlikely that many applications will satisfy all the requirements.
How to apply
The application process is conducted through Hatch’s recruitment system. The vacancy can be found through the provided Requisition ID 99164.
Before submitting the application, it is advised to go through the following checklist:
- One is a South African citizen;
- One is in their final year of/or has completed a BSc or BEng in Mechanical Engineering;
- One’s academic average is 65% or higher;
- One has 12 months or less of work experience;
- A most recent, full transcript has been attached;
- One is willing to work anywhere in South Africa.
It is advisable to structure one’s CV in a way that reflects one’s academic and engineering-related experience, projects and technical expertise, rather than leaving the recruiters to extract this information from the transcript.
Quick reference
- Company: Hatch
- Programme: Graduate Programme 2026
- Field: Mechanical Engineering
- Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng (mobility across South Africa)
- Requisition ID: 99164
- Advertised: 8 September 2026
- Eligibility: South African citizens
- Qualification: BSc or BEng in Mechanical Engineering
- Academic requirement: 65% average or above
- Experience: 12 months or less
Common questions
Do I have to be a South African citizen? Yes, the vacancy is only open to South African citizens.
Can I apply while studying? Yes, the employers accept final-year BSc or BEng Mechanical Engineering students, as long as they satisfy the remaining requirements.
How much experience is too much? The maximum amount of working experience that one can have and still be considered for the position is 12 months.
Could I be placed outside of Johannesburg? Possibly, as the employers ask that the applicant be able to work in any province in South Africa.
Is a stipend or salary stated? The information provided by Hatch does not stipulate a salary. Applicants are advised to clarify the remuneration and conditions of employment with the organisation directly.
Source: Hatch Graduate Programme 2026 vacancy information (Requisition ID 99164).
Editorial policy: This report is based on the vacancy details as published at the time of writing. Facts have been presented as stated by the employer, without embellishment by unverified claims, figures or promises.
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Disclaimer: Vacancy details, availability and recruitment processes can change without notice. Applicants should confirm the most recent details through the official recruitment process of Hatch. Legitimate employers do not charge a fee to apply for a job – never pay to submit an application.
