Heineken Beverages, a leader in the food and beverage industry, is calling on young, eager individuals to apply for a Food & Beverages Packaging Operations Learnership based at their Gqeberha manufacturing plant. This learnership, which spans 14 months, offers an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience and earn a nationally recognized qualification in packaging operations.
Learnership Overview
The Food & Beverages Packaging Operations Learnership is designed to equip participants with essential skills to operate machinery on an automated food and beverage packaging line. The learnership focuses on building competence in basic machine operations and quality control within a high-speed manufacturing environment. Successful learners will complete assessments and attend classes, with a requirement of achieving at least a 70% pass rate in each subject.
The programme offers an in-depth exposure to various critical operations, including washing, filling, sealing, labelling, palletizing, depalletizing, and first-line maintenance. Learners will also have an opportunity to gain valuable experience in monitoring critical control points as part of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, which is vital in ensuring the safety and quality of food and beverage products.
Learnership Outcomes
The learners will acquire the following key skills and knowledge:
- Understanding basic machine operations within a manufacturing or packaging environment.
- Monitoring critical control points (CCPs) to adhere to HACCP safety standards.
- Applying quality control practices to ensure the highest standards in food and beverage production.
- Gaining proficiency in machine workplace observations and performing first-line maintenance.
- Enhancing problem-solving skills to troubleshoot operational issues.
- Developing strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Demonstrating mathematical competency in operational tasks.
This learnership is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are eager to learn and thrive in a fast-paced, demanding industry. The learners will gain a unique skill set that can open doors to a future career in manufacturing or packaging operations.
Minimum Requirements
Heineken Beverages is looking for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Must be unemployed at the time of application.
- Must have passed Grade 12 with Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) and English as subjects.
- Previous experience in a production or high-speed packaging environment would be an advantage.
- Knowledge of safe working procedures and the ability to adhere to these standards.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and thrive under pressure.
- Physical fitness to handle the inherent demands of the learnership.
- Willingness to work shifts and overtime as required by the job.
Candidates must be eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply. The recruitment process will consider the company’s Employment Equity Plan and targets, with a strong emphasis on promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
Training and Employment Terms
The selected candidates will be employed on a fixed-term contract for the duration of the 14-month learnership. While the learnership provides valuable on-the-job training, learners will be expected to attend classes and complete assignments to demonstrate their understanding of the material. Successful learners will receive a nationally recognized qualification in food and beverage packaging operations upon completion of the programme.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Heineken Beverages is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment. The company actively encourages applications from individuals with disabilities and values the contributions of a diverse workforce. As an Equal Opportunities employer, Heineken Beverages strives to create a workplace where all employees feel valued and supported.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their application before the closing date, which is 14 May 2025. For more information on how to apply, interested candidates should visit Heineken Beverages’ official website or contact their recruitment team.
By joining Heineken Beverages, learners will not only gain invaluable experience but will also be part of a company that is dedicated to developing talent and fostering an environment of inclusion and respect. This is a fantastic opportunity for those passionate about the food and beverage industry and looking to jumpstart their career in packaging operations.
Check also: UNISA Internship Programme 2025
