Bergrivier Municipality Opens Fire Fighter Learnerships for 2026 – A Life-Saving Career Path Awaits

Bergrivier Municipality invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Fire Fighter Learnership Programme 2026 Vacancies (limited learner posts available). The closing date for applications is Friday, 09 January 2026 at 15:00. This opportunity is ideal for young people who are physically fit, mentally strong, and serious about building a respected career in emergency services.

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A Rare Chance to Train as a Professional Fire Fighter

South Africa needs disciplined and well-trained emergency responders more than ever. Fires, accidents, and disasters happen daily, and communities rely on brave professionals to respond quickly and effectively. Bergrivier Municipality is answering this need by investing in a structured Fire Fighter Learnership that prepares candidates for real-life emergency situations.

This programme is not for everyone. It is demanding, intense, and challenging. But for those who are committed, it offers purpose, stability, and a chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

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About Bergrivier Municipality

Bergrivier Municipality is a Category B local municipality in the Western Cape, serving communities such as Velddrif, Piketberg, Porterville, Redelinghuys, Eendekuil, and Aurora.

The municipality is responsible for important services that keep communities safe, including:

• Fire and rescue services
• Disaster risk management
• Emergency response and community safety
• Fire prevention and public awareness

Through learnerships like this one, Bergrivier Municipality supports skills development, youth employment, and community protection, while following the Fire Brigade Services Act (Act 99 of 1987).

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Understanding the Fire Fighter Learnership Programme

What This Learnership Is About

The Fire Fighter Learnership is an entry-level training programme for individuals with no previous firefighting experience. It is designed to develop future professional firefighters through practical training, real exposure, and strict discipline.

As a Learner Fire Fighter, you will:

• Receive structured firefighting and emergency training
• Work under experienced fire officers
• Learn how to respond to fires, rescues, and emergencies
• Build physical strength, teamwork, and mental resilience
• Lay the foundation for a long-term career in fire and rescue services

Firefighting is not a normal office job. It involves shift work, overtime, emotional pressure, and physical danger. In return, it offers respect, job security, and a strong sense of purpose.

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Job Purpose of a Learner Fire Fighter

The main purpose of this role is to protect lives and property within the Bergrivier municipal area. Under supervision, learners assist with emergency response and fire services while completing their training.

You will be trained to assist with:

• Fire suppression and rescue operations
• Emergency and disaster response
• Basic medical assistance
• Fire prevention and community education
• Equipment handling and maintenance
• Fire station duties and cleanliness

All work is done according to national laws and strict safety standards.

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Key Performance Areas You Will Be Trained In

Firefighting and Emergency Response

Once trained, learners will:

• Take part in firefighting operations under supervision
• Respond to emergencies to reduce loss of life and damage
• Support rescue efforts during accidents and disasters

Emergency Preparedness and Fire Prevention

Learners will also:

• Help prepare for emergency situations
• Take part in fire safety education in communities
• Promote awareness about fire risks and prevention

Equipment and Station Readiness

You will be expected to:

• Keep firefighting vehicles and equipment clean and ready
• Maintain a safe and hygienic fire station environment

Administrative Support

Learners may assist with:

• Basic record keeping
• Operational reports when required

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Minimum Requirements You Must Meet

Educational Qualification

• Grade 12 (Matric) is compulsory

Driving Licence

• Valid Code C1 driving licence

Physical and Medical Fitness

Applicants must:

• Pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
• Pass a medical test in line with NFPA 1582
• Pass departmental physical tests on entry and annually

Mental Readiness

You must not suffer from fears related to:

• Confined spaces
• Heights
• Water or depth
• Blood, darkness, isolation, or corpses

Firefighters work in extreme conditions, so mental strength is critical.

Language Skills

• Must be able to speak, read, and write in at least two Western Cape official languages:
  • Afrikaans
  • English
  • isiXhosa

Work Conditions

Applicants must be willing to:

• Work shifts and overtime
• Be deployed to any fire station in the municipality

Criminal Record

• No criminal record

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Salary and Employment Details

• Salary: R145 440.00 per annum
• Grade: T05 (Category 3 Local Authority)
• Employment Type: Learnership / Entry-level Fire Services
• Start Date: 01 March 2026 or as soon as possible

This is a paid municipal position, offering income while you train for a professional career.

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How to Apply for the Fire Fighter Learnership

Documents Required

Your application must include:

• Completed prescribed application form
• Covering letter
• At least two contactable references
• CV (maximum 3 pages)
• Certified copies of:
  • ID document
  • Grade 12 certificate
  • Driver’s licence

Where to Get the Application Form

• Request it by calling 022 913 6000
• Or download it from www.bergmun.org.za

Submission Methods (Very Important)

Applications must be:

• Hand-delivered to municipal offices (Aurora, Eendekuil, Redelinghuys, Piketberg, Porterville, or Velddrif)
• OR posted to:
  PO Box 60, Piketberg, 7320
• OR couriered to:
  13 Church Street, Piketberg, 7320

Attention: Mr DF Verhoog

No faxed or emailed applications will be accepted.

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Closing Date You Must Not Miss

Closing Date: Friday, 09 January 2026 at 15:00

Late applications will not be considered for any reason.

This Fire Fighter Learnership Programme 2026 is a serious opportunity for disciplined individuals who want to serve their communities and build a respected emergency services career. If you meet the requirements and are ready for the challenge, this could be the opportunity that changes your life.