Listing Reference: 136488
Listing Status: Open
Position Summary
Company: Heineken Beverages
Industry: Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Job Category: Packaging & Operations Learnership
Location: Gqeberha, South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (14 Months)
Remuneration: Stipend (Not specified)
EE Position: Yes
Closing Date: 15 May 2025
Introduction
Heineken Beverages, a global leader in brewing and packaging innovation, invites dynamic and ambitious young South Africans to apply for its Food and Beverages Packaging Operations Learnership. This 14-month fixed-term opportunity in Gqeberha is designed to upskill unemployed youth with technical competencies relevant to high-speed packaging environments.
This learnership offers a blend of theoretical classroom learning and hands-on practical exposure in Heineken’s world-class supply chain and manufacturing operations. Successful candidates will gain valuable experience and credentials, positioning them for future careers in the food and beverage industry.
Job Description
The Packaging Operations Learnership aims to produce capable and work-ready individuals who can thrive in production environments. Trainees will engage in classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and continuous assessment in order to qualify across multiple packaging-related operations.
Learning outcomes include:
- Understanding basic machine operations in manufacturing/packaging environments
- Monitoring Critical Control Points (CCPs) under Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) standards
- Performing quality control in food and sensitive product manufacturing
- Gaining competency in 3 machine workplace observations which may include:
- Washing
- Filling
- Sealing
- Labelling
- Palletizing
- Depalletizing
- Executing first-line maintenance duties
- Using problem-solving techniques in a production context
- Applying numeracy skills and interpreting basic technical information
- Demonstrating effective communication in operational and team settings
Training will include:
- Classroom sessions with a required minimum 70% pass rate per subject
- Workplace exposure aligned to operational needs and machine process streams
- Adherence to Heineken Beverages’ Code of Business Conduct
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic learner with a passion for operations, production, and manufacturing, who thrives in fast-paced environments and is committed to professional development.
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Matric/Grade 12 with:
- Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy)
- English
- Proven communication skills (verbal and written)
- Basic understanding of safe working procedures
- Relevant production/packaging experience is advantageous
- Physically fit to handle demanding operational tasks
- Able and willing to work shifts and overtime when required
- Must function independently and perform under pressure
- Must attend and pass all assessments
Role Responsibility
Successful candidates will be expected to:
- Participate actively in all training modules, theory and practical
- Shadow experienced technicians and operators during production cycles
- Monitor production line equipment and ensure safety compliance
- Complete all logbooks, assessments, and reporting tools accurately
- Assist with fault identification and apply first-line maintenance
- Support quality control efforts and hygiene protocols
- Maintain professionalism and adhere to company codes at all times
Skills and Attributes
Heineken is looking for candidates with:
- Strong work ethic and discipline
- A proactive attitude towards learning and teamwork
- Ability to follow technical instructions and safety rules
- Numeracy and literacy proficiency
- A desire to build a long-term career in food and beverage operations
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
- The capacity to cope with repetitive or physical tasks
- A team-player mindset with the ability to collaborate effectively
- Resilience to work under pressure and meet operational timelines
Additional Notes
- Successful candidates will be employed under a Fixed-Term Contract
- The programme is supervised by Ludine Plaatjies under the Supply Chain – Manufacturing function
- This opportunity not only enhances employability but also provides direct exposure to the FMCG sector and Heineken’s global production standards
- The programme forms part of Heineken’s broader skills development and youth employment initiatives in South Africa
How to Apply
To submit your application:
- Visit the official Heineken Careers portal
- Search for the job using Reference Number: 136488
- Complete the online application form
- Upload certified copies of your Matric Certificate, ID document, and any relevant qualifications or experience
Apply here: Heineken Beverages Careers – Learnership Application
Conclusion
The Heineken Beverages Packaging Operations Learnership is a powerful opportunity for unemployed South African youth to gain hands-on experience in the manufacturing and FMCG space. With globally benchmarked standards and a commitment to excellence, Heineken ensures that learners exit the programme ready to take on careers in packaging, supply chain, and production. If you meet the criteria and are ready to learn from industry leaders, this could be your stepping stone into a brighter future.
Apply before 15 May 2025 and become part of a legacy of quality, sustainability, and innovation at Heineken.