Student Bending Operator
CFW Industries (Pty) Ltd
Cape Town, Western Cape
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Posted 16 March 2026

Job Details

Job Description

CFW provides precision CNC metal bending and fabrication services, specializing in stainless and mild steel for industrial applications like fan manufacturing. Utilizing turret press brakes and advanced CNC machinery, we offer high accuracy bending, forming, and laser cutting. We handle sheet metal fabrication, including bending and punching, for ventilation, mining, and power generation components.

Our company is looking to partner with technical colleges to provide practical workplace training for students interested in developing skills as Bending Operators within the sheet metal manufacturing environment.

We are seeking two students per intake who have completed, at minimum, an N3 or N4 qualification in any of the following courses:

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Boilermaking / Fabrication

Intake Periods

There will be two intake periods each year:

  • January
  • July

Remuneration

Students will receive remuneration in accordance with the MEIBC Five-Grade Wage Schedule, specifically Grade 1 less 20%, as applicable to learners in training.

Probationary Period

Students will undergo a six-month probationary period while participating in the programme.

Training Structure

Typical duties will include:

  • Operate and set up bending machine
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and work orders
  • Select proper tooling and adjust machine settings for material type and thickness
  • Perform bend sequence planning for accurate and efficient production
  • Inspect parts using measuring tools
  • Keep work area clean and organized

  

The training programme will run over a 12 month period and will be structured as follows:

Months 1–6

Students will work as an Assistant Bender, shadowing and supporting an experienced Bending Operator.

The focus will be on learning machine operation, safety procedures, material handling, and production processes.

Months 7–11

Students will begin performing bending duties themselves under direct supervision from a qualified operator.

Month 12

Students will perform their duties independently under indirect supervision, demonstrating their ability to operate safely and effectively.

Permanent Employment Opportunities

At the conclusion of the training year, students may apply for permanent employment as Bending Operators. Appointment will be considered should a suitable vacancy be available at the time.

Training Commitment

Should a student choose to leave the programme within the 12-month training period, they will be required to repay certain training-related costs, including:

Training material costs

  • Issued PPE and equipment
  • Any scrapping or material costs incurred during training

Purpose of the Programme

This programme is intended to provide students with practical industry experience, equipping them with the technical and operational skills required to work as qualified bending operators in a manufacturing environment.