RBM 2026 Bursaries – Core Disciplines

RioTinto; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global mining company is inviting applications for its 2026 Bursary Programme aimed at students in KwaZulu-Natal. The program provides financial support and a launchpad for future leaders in fields such as Engineering and Environmental Science. Eligible applicants are South African citizens completing Grade 12 in 2025 with a minimum average year mark of 65%. Documents required include ID copies and a motivation letter.

Benefits

Financial support

Tools and knowledge for future careers

Qualifications

• South African citizen.
• Minimum average year mark of 65%.
• Qualifying for financial assistance.

Education

Current students in Grade 12

Provisional acceptance from a university

Fields of study: BSC/BEng Engineering, BSc Sciences

Job description

Rio Tinto’s South African operation, Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) in KwaZulu-Natal, invites applications for our 2026 Bursary Programme.

We are seeking enthusiastic students pursuing studies in the following fields:

• BSC or BEng Engineering: Extractive Metallurgy, Electrical, Mechanical
• BSc Sciences: Environmental Science, Geology

Why Apply?

At Rio Tinto Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), we believe in the power of potential. Our bursary programme goes beyond financial support; it’s a launchpad for future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. By investing in passionate students, we provide the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to shape a brighter future for themselves and for RBM.

Eligibility Criteria

• South African citizen
• Students currently completing Grade 12 in 2025
• Minimum average year mark of 65%
• Qualifying for financial assistance

Required Application Documents

• Certified copy of ID (not older than 3 months)
• Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae
• Certified 2025 Grade 12 report – Midyear report
• Proof of provisional acceptance from a university
• Certified ID copy of parent/guardian
• Parent/guardian proof of income or payslip
• Motivation letter explaining your chosen field of study

NB: RBM will prioritize suitably qualified applicants from designated groups (e.g., Women and people with disabilities) where there is under-representation.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company operating in 35 countries. We produce iron ore, copper, aluminium, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the energy transition and global development.

With 150 years of mining history, our purpose is to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs, focusing on innovation, low emissions, and high standards of environmental, social, and governance practices. We believe in partnerships to solve problems and create opportunities.

Every Voice Matters

We are committed to an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves. We value diversity, respect all cultures, and believe that different perspectives are essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity, regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, or other differences.

We especially encourage applications from Women, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disabilities, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. We believe that our differences are our strength, enhancing our teamwork and success.