PepsiCo Learnerships 2026: R&D Packaging Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Opportunity in South Africa
Looking to kickstart your career with a global leader? The PepsiCo Learnership Programme 2026offers an exciting Work-In-Learning (WIL) opportunity across multiple specialisations, including a highly sought-after R&D Packaging Learnership in South Africa.
This programme is designed for final-year students in scientific and engineering fields who want to gain hands-on experience in research and development, food manufacturing, and product innovation.
PepsiCo R&D Learnership 2026 – Packaging WIL Programme
The PepsiCo R&D Packaging Learnership 2026 provides practical exposure to real-world projects in product development, laboratory testing, and packaging innovation. Learners will work alongside experienced professionals and gain valuable industry knowledge within a globally recognised company.
About the PepsiCo Work Integrated Learning Programme
As an R&D WIL learner, you will support PepsiCo’s South African R&D team in delivering innovative food and packaging solutions. This includes assisting with product trials, laboratory analysis, and production processes.
You’ll collaborate with technologists and cross-functional teams to bring new products from concept to production.
Key Responsibilities
During the PepsiCo learnership, your duties will include:
- Supporting R&D projects, including pilot plant and production trials
- Assisting with trial protocols and stakeholder coordination
- Working with R&D technologists on product development projects
- Participating in factory and pilot plant trials
- Conducting routine quality control and analytical testing
- Collecting product samples from production lines
- Collaborating with product developers and internal teams
- Maintaining Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and hygiene standards
- Supporting Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) initiatives
- Completing online training to enhance business and technical knowledge
Laboratory and Technical Training
As part of the learnership, you will gain experience in key laboratory processes, including:
- Salt analysis
- Oil analysis
- Bulk density testing
- Particle size analysis
- Moisture analysis
- Seasoning application to meet product specifications
Project Support and Reporting
You will also contribute to project coordination and technical documentation by:
- Compiling project timelines and tracking progress
- Supporting scale-up activities in production and co-manufacturing plants
- Preparing detailed reports and recommendations
- Drafting technical specifications and standards
- Working with regulatory teams to ensure legal and compliance requirements are met
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the PepsiCo Learnership 2026 in South Africa, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be a final-year student who has completed the theoretical component of their qualification
- Have a minimum academic average of 60%
- Hold or be completing a qualification in:
- Biochemistry
- Food Technology
- Engineering
- Or a related scientific field
- Possess strong analytical and technical skills
- Have a basic understanding of statistics and data analysis
- Demonstrate the ability to interpret data and generate insights
- Have good communication and interpersonal skills
- Be self-motivated, organised, and detail-oriented
- Be able to work independently and adapt to change
- Show professionalism, integrity, and accountability
- A valid driver’s licence will be advantageous
Preferred Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates will stand out with:
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders
- Good negotiation and resource management abilities
- Awareness of latest technology and industry trends
- Creative problem-solving skills
- A results-driven mindset with persistence
- Ability to manage complexity and take initiative
Why Choose the PepsiCo Learnership Programme 2026?
- Gain real-world R&D experience in a global FMCG company
- Build technical, laboratory, and project management skills
- Work on cutting-edge food and packaging innovation projects
- Enhance your employability in the food science and engineering industry
How to Apply
Click here to apply online for the PepsiCo Learnerships programme 2026