Unilever Automated Packaging Learnership | 12-Month Programme

Unilever invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the Automated Packaging Learnership based at the Maydon Wharf Factory in Durban, South Africa. This 12-month, full-time onsite programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills in operating automated packaging equipment while adhering to strict health, safety, and quality standards. Learners will gain valuable exposure to production line operations, basic mechanical maintenance, business understanding, and effective communication within a manufacturing environment.

The learnership is open to applicants who hold a National Senior Certificate (Matric) with Mathematics and Science, or an N2, N3, or N4 Engineering qualification. Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the programme and must be able to work onsite at the Maydon Wharf Factory. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, in line with Unilever’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity.

Position: Automated Packaging Learnership
Function: Supply Chain
Programme Duration: 12 Months (Full-Time, Onsite)
Job Reference: R-1172888
Location: Maydon Wharf Factory, Durban, South Africa
Closing Date: 21 January 2026

About the Learnership

An exciting Automated Packaging Learnership opportunity is available at the Maydon Wharf Factory in Durban. This programme is designed to train learners in operating automated packaging equipment while maintaining strict health, safety, and quality standards. Participants will gain valuable workplace experience, business understanding, mechanical maintenance exposure, and effective communication skills required for production line operations.

The learnership reports to the Assistant Learning Manager and is focused on local operations within the Supply Chain function. Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend for the full duration of the programme.

Key Responsibilities

Learners will be responsible for performing general production line operations and cleaning activities according to operational plans. Duties include conducting pre-start-up equipment and safety checks, monitoring product and packaging quality, identifying and correcting process abnormalities, and cleaning machinery according to required standards. Learners will also prepare raw materials for production, maintain personal and team safety, promote eco-efficient practices, and complete all required assessments, logbooks, and assignments linked to the learnership.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must have a National Senior Certificate (Matric) with passes in Mathematics and Science, or hold an N2, N3, or N4 Engineering qualification.

Desired Behaviours

Ideal candidates demonstrate personal ownership, resilience, and a strong focus on excellence. They are proactive, detail-oriented, and able to identify issues and opportunities early. A commitment to teamwork, continuous improvement, and meeting consumer and customer needs is essential.

Additional Information

This role does not offer relocation assistance. Applicants must already live in, or be able to relocate at their own cost to, Durban. The learnership is fully onsite at the Maydon Wharf Factory.

Equity and Inclusion

The organisation is committed to equity, inclusion, and diversity. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities. All candidates will be treated fairly and with respect, and support will be provided throughout the recruitment process where required.

Closing Date: 21 January 2026

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their applications online before the closing date of 21 January 2026. Applications should be completed in full and include all required supporting documents, such as certified copies of qualifications and a valid identity document. Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the opportunity is time sensitive. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process, and successful candidates must be available to participate in the full-time, onsite learnership at the Maydon Wharf Factory in Durban.

Apply Here: Automated Packaging Learnership