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
Simphiwe Dube is the Founder and Managing Editor of sa-learnership.co.za, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships and skills development programmes.
He specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable and up-to-date guidance.
Simphiwe is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so that South African students, graduates and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence.