PepsiCo invites South African students to apply for the Research & Development (R&D) WIL Learnership Programme 2026.
Learnership Application Closing Date: Not specified
Learnership Location: South Africa
About the PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership Programme 2026
PepsiCo is offering a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Learnership Programme designed for students who need practical workplace experience to complete their qualifications.
This programme provides hands-on exposure in laboratories, pilot plants, and production environments, allowing learners to work alongside experienced R&D professionals in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.
It is an excellent opportunity for students who want to build careers in:
- Food manufacturing
- Product development
- Quality assurance
- Engineering
- Research and innovation
Fields Covered
Learners can apply within the following specialised R&D platforms:
- Snacks
- Beverages
- Bakeries
- Productivity
- Seasoning
- Packaging
- Nutrition Science
- Foods
What the Programme Offers
Participants will gain:
- Practical workplace experience in R&D environments
- Exposure to laboratory testing and analysis
- Experience with pilot plant and factory trials
- Skills in product formulation and development
- Knowledge of packaging validation and compliance
- Understanding of food safety, quality, and regulatory processes
Key Responsibilities
Learners will assist with:
- Laboratory testing (salt, oil, moisture, density, particle size)
- Pilot plant trials and prototype testing
- Factory production trials
- Product formulation and development
- Packaging testing and validation
- Seasoning and flavour application
- Data collection and analysis
- Technical documentation and reporting
- Compliance with GMP and safety standards
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be in final year or have completed theoretical coursework
- Have a minimum academic average of 60%
- Be studying one of the following:
- Biochemistry
- Food Technology
- Engineering
- Nutrition Science
- Or a related scientific qualification
Additional Skills
Ideal candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong analytical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Technical understanding
- Ability to interpret data
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Initiative and independence
A valid driver’s licence is advantageous but not required.
Why You Should Apply
This programme offers:
- Real industry exposure in FMCG R&D
- Practical experience in product development
- Opportunity to work with leading professionals
- Strong career foundation for technical roles
- Improved employability in food and manufacturing industries
How to Apply
Click here to apply for PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership Programme 2026: