Job Requisition ID: R-1172888
Location: Maydon Wharf Factory, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Function: Supply Chain
Employment Type: Learnership (Full-Time, Onsite)
Closing Date: 21 January 2026
Time Left to Apply: 2 Days
Reporting To: Assistant Learning Manager
Scope: Local
Introduction: Build a Future in Advanced Manufacturing
Are you passionate about technology, production systems, and hands-on learning? Do you want to gain real-world experience in a modern manufacturing environment while earning a qualification and developing critical workplace skills? If so, the Automated Packaging Learnership at Unilever’s Maydon Wharf Factory in Durban offers an exceptional opportunity to launch your career in the supply chain and manufacturing sector.
This learnership is designed for motivated individuals who want to learn how world-class consumer products are packaged using advanced automated systems.
Over a structured 12-month period, you will gain practical exposure, technical knowledge, and workplace experience while working alongside experienced professionals in one of South Africa’s leading manufacturing organisations.
ABOUT UNILEVER
Unilever is one of the world’s most recognised and respected consumer goods companies, with a presence in over 190 countries. Our brands touch the lives of billions of people every day, from food and nutrition to home and personal care products. We are driven by a strong purpose: to make sustainable living commonplace.
At Unilever South Africa, we believe our people are the heart of our success. We invest heavily in skills development, learning, and transformation, ensuring that our workforce reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. Our learnership programmes play a vital role in empowering young talent, developing scarce skills, and building a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.
Programme Overview
The Automated Packaging Learnership is a structured, hands-on training programme that combines theoretical learning with practical workplace experience. The programme focuses on automated packaging operations within a high-speed manufacturing environment.
As a learner, you will be trained to operate, monitor, and maintain automated packaging equipment while ensuring compliance with health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. You will also develop essential workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
This programme is ideal for individuals who enjoy technical work, attention to detail, and working in a fast-paced production environment.
Purpose of the Role
The primary purpose of this learnership is to develop competent packaging operators who understand both the technical and business aspects of automated packaging operations.
By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:
-Safely operate automated packaging machinery
-Monitor product and packaging quality
-Identify and respond to equipment or process issues
-Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards
-Work effectively as part of a production team
-Understand basic mechanical maintenance principles
-Apply sustainable and eco-efficient practices in manufacturing
Key Learning Areas
Throughout the 12-month learnership, learners will be exposed to:
-Automated packaging systems and equipment
Production line operations
-Quality assurance and control processes
-Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards
-Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
-Basic mechanical and technical maintenance
-Lean manufacturing principles
-Workplace communication and teamwork
-Sustainability and waste reduction practices
Key Responsibilities
As part of the Automated Packaging Learnership, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:
Production Line Operations
-Participate in daily production activities according to operational plans and schedules.
-Assist in running automated packaging lines efficiently and safely.
-Support production targets while maintaining quality standards.
Pre-Start-Up and Safety Checks
-Conduct pre-start-up inspections to ensure equipment readiness.
-Verify cleanliness, safety, and compliance with SOPs before production begins.
-Report any safety hazards or equipment concerns immediately.
Quality Monitoring
-Monitor packaged products to ensure they meet required quality specifications.
-Identify defects, deviations, or faults in packaging materials or finished products.
-Escalate quality issues promptly to prevent product losses or downtime.
-Equipment Monitoring and Problem Solving
-Detect abnormal machine behaviour or process deviations.
-Take appropriate corrective action within your scope of training.
-Assist technicians and operators during breakdowns or maintenance activities.
-Cleaning and Hygiene
-Clean packaging machinery and surrounding areas according to manufacturer guidelines.
-Follow site hygiene and sanitation standards strictly.
-Ensure compliance with food safety and quality requirements where applicable.
Material Handling
-Prepare, check, and verify raw and packaging materials before use.
-Ensure correct materials are supplied to the production line.
-Health, Safety, and Environment
-Adhere to all health and safety rules and procedures.
-Maintain personal safety and actively contribute to team safety.
-Support eco-efficient practices such as waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
-Learnership Compliance
-Complete all required theoretical modules and workplace assessments.
-Maintain accurate logbooks and learning records.
-Participate actively in evaluations, assignments, and training sessions.
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this learnership, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
A National Senior Certificate (Matric) with passes in Mathematics and Physical Science, OR
An N2, N3, or N4 Engineering qualification
A strong interest in manufacturing, engineering, or supply chain operations
Desired Skills and Attributes
While technical skills will be developed during the programme, successful candidates typically demonstrate:
-A willingness to learn and grow
-Strong attention to detail
-Basic problem-solving ability
-Good communication skills
-Ability to work well in a team
-Discipline and reliability
-Respect for safety rules and procedures
-Physical ability to work in a factory environment
Behavioral Expectations
At Unilever, behaviors matter just as much as skills. We are looking for learners who:
Take personal ownership of their development and performance
Demonstrate resilience and adaptability in a dynamic environment
Prioritise tasks effectively and focus on what truly matters
Continuously seek better, smarter, and more efficient ways of working
Use data and observations to identify issues and opportunities
Show care for consumers, customers, colleagues, and the environment
Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity
Unilever is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and diversity. We believe that everyone deserves a fair opportunity to succeed, regardless of background or circumstances. Applications are welcomed from all suitably qualified individuals, including persons with disabilities.
We strive to create a workplace where every employee feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their whole self to work. If you require any support or accommodation during the recruitment process, we encourage you to inform us at the time of application.
Terms and Conditions
Duration: 12-month learnership
Work Arrangement: Full-time, onsite
Location: Maydon Wharf Factory, Durban
Compensation: Monthly stipend for the duration of the programme
Relocation: No relocation assistance provided
Applicants must already reside in Durban or be able to relocate at their own cost
Why Join This Learnership?
By joining this programme, you will:
Gain valuable hands-on experience in automated manufacturing
Develop in-demand technical and workplace skills
Learn from experienced professionals in a global organisation
Improve your employability within the manufacturing and supply chain sector
Be part of a company committed to sustainability and people development
Final Note
This Automated Packaging Learnership represents more than just training—it is a stepping stone toward a sustainable career in manufacturing and supply chain operations. If you are eager to learn, ready to commit, and motivated to grow, this opportunity could be the start of a rewarding professional journey.
Applications close on 21 January 2026.
Do not miss the opportunity to be part of a programme that builds skills, confidence, and a future.
