
PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership (Productivity) Vacancies
PepsiCo invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their R&D WIL Learnership (Productivity) Vacancies (Multiple Posts). The closing date for applications is not specified, so apply as soon as possible.
If you are a student or recent graduate in science and you are looking for real work experience, this opportunity could be exactly what you need. PepsiCo is offering an exciting Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Learnership in Research and Development (R&D), designed to help you gain practical skills while working with professionals in the industry.
This is not just a learnership where you sit and watch. You will be actively involved in real projects, learning how products are developed, tested, and improved before they reach the market.
About the Learnership
The R&D WIL Learnership at PepsiCo focuses on giving you hands-on experience in product development and testing. You will work closely with R&D Technologists and Managers, supporting different projects and learning how things work in a real production environment.
This opportunity is ideal for students studying fields like Food Technology, Biochemistry, or Engineering who want to gain experience in the food and beverage industry.
What You Will Be Doing
During this learnership, you will assist with different research and development tasks. Your responsibilities will include:
- Helping prepare and share trial plans with team members
- Supporting research projects for the South African R&D team
- Assisting with product testing and prototype development
- Helping with pilot plant and factory trials
- Collecting product samples from production lines
- Working with product developers on improving products
- Supporting hygiene and safety practices in the workplace
- Taking part in online training to improve your knowledge
You will also help with setting up trials and making sure everything is ready before testing begins.
Laboratory and Testing Work
A big part of this learnership involves laboratory work. You will conduct different types of tests, such as:
- Salt analysis
- Oil analysis
- Moisture analysis
- Particle size analysis
- Bulk density analysis
These tests help ensure that products meet quality standards before they are released.
Additional Responsibilities
You will also:
- Help plan project timelines
- Work with different teams to make sure resources are available
- Assist with scaling up production in factories
- Prepare reports and share results with your manager
- Help create technical documents for products
- Work with regulatory teams to ensure products meet legal requirements
This means you will gain both technical and communication skills.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this learnership, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed the theoretical part of your studies in a scientific field
- Be in your final year of study
- Have an average of above 60%
- Be studying Biochemistry, Food Technology, Engineering, or a related field
Skills and Qualities Needed
PepsiCo is looking for candidates who have:
- Strong analytical and technical skills
- Basic understanding of statistics
- Ability to understand and interpret data
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Strong organization and time management skills
- Ability to work independently
- High levels of motivation and energy
You should also be someone who is curious and ready to solve problems.
Added Advantages
The following will give you an advantage:
- A valid driver’s license
- Good understanding of modern technology
- Ability to work with different teams
- Creative thinking skills
- Confidence in sharing ideas
Why You Should Apply
This learnership offers many benefits, including:
- Real work experience in a global company
- Exposure to product development and innovation
- Opportunity to learn from experienced professionals
- Development of practical and technical skills
- A chance to improve your chances of future employment
If you want to build a career in the food and beverage industry, this is a great starting point.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements, you should apply as soon as possible since there is no confirmed closing date.
Prepare your CV and include your academic results. Make sure your application clearly shows your field of study and your interest in research and development.