PepsiCo invites South African students to apply for the 2026 R&D WIL Learnership opportunities available in Isando, Cape Town, and Ceres. These workplace learning programmes are designed for students who have completed the theoretical component of studies in fields such as Food Technology, Biochemistry, Engineering, Packaging, Nutrition Science, and related scientific disciplines. Successful candidates will gain practical industry experience within research and development environments while supporting pilot plant activities, laboratory testing, production trials, and product development projects.
The learnership programme offers exposure to analytical testing, quality assurance, project coordination, product innovation, and regulatory compliance within the food and beverage industry. Candidates will work closely with R&D Technologists and project teams while developing technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills in a professional manufacturing environment. Applicants with strong communication skills, attention to detail, self-motivation, and a passion for research and development are encouraged to apply through the official PepsiCo careers platform.
Available PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership Programmes
The following learnership opportunities are currently open:
- R&D WIL Learnership (Foods) – Isando
- R&D WIL Learnership (Bakeries) – Cape Town
- R&D WIL Learnership (Beverages) – Ceres
- R&D WIL Learnership (Productivity) – Isando
- R&D WIL Learnership (Nutrition Science) – Cape Town
- R&D WIL Learnership (Packaging) – Cape Town
- R&D WIL Learnership (Seasoning) – Isando
- R&D WIL Learnership (Snacks) – Isando
These programmes fall under the Research and Development division and provide graduates and students with practical workplace exposure in manufacturing, food production, quality assurance, and product innovation environments.
Overview of the Learnership Programme
The PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership programme focuses on providing hands-on experience in research and development activities. Candidates will support R&D Technologists and Managers with daily operational tasks, project execution, trial coordination, laboratory testing, and pilot plant activities.
Participants will assist in organizing and executing assigned projects within the South African R&D team. Exposure will range from administrative and transactional support to involvement in pilot plant testing and production trial execution.
The programme is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food technology, scientific research, laboratory testing, product development, and innovation within the food and beverage industry.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Selected candidates will assist with trial protocols and communicate project information to relevant stakeholders after alignment with the R&D Technologist or R&D Manager.
Daily responsibilities may include supporting low complexity product development projects, assisting with prototype preparation, and helping execute pilot plant and factory trials.
Candidates will also support production trial activities while following established testing and reporting methodologies. Trial protocols must be aligned before execution, and communication with stakeholders will form an important part of the role.
Additional duties include attending pilot plant and factory trials whenever required by the R&D team.
Laboratory and Product Testing Responsibilities
Participants will be responsible for routine analytical testing and product quality checks. This includes collecting base products from production lines for development activities at pilot plant level.
The role also includes working closely with product developers and supporting efficient operations within pilot plant environments while maintaining good manufacturing practices and hygiene standards.
Candidates may conduct various laboratory tests such as:
- Salt Analysis
- Oil Analysis
- Bulk Density Analysis
- Particle Size Analysis
- Moisture Analysis
Seasoning applications may also form part of the role, ensuring products meet required salt specifications and quality standards.
Project Support and Technical Functions
The programme includes exposure to project coordination and technical support activities. Candidates may assist in compiling project timelines and communicating schedules to ensure equipment and resources are available for production and testing activities.
Scale-up activities within PepsiCo production facilities and selected co-manufacturers may also form part of the practical training process.
Successful candidates will help prepare concise and accurate project reports for project teams and line managers. Exposure to ingredient recommendations, process conditions, and formula support may also be included.
Additional technical support duties may include:
- Drafting artwork specifications
- Assisting with process specifications
- Supporting finished pack standards documentation
- Assisting with legal and regulatory compliance processes
The programme also promotes exposure to Environmental Health and Safety initiatives within manufacturing and research environments.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have successfully completed the theoretical component of studies in a scientific field with an average above 60%.
Fields of study may include:
- Biochemistry
- Food Technology
- Engineering
- Nutrition Science
- Related scientific disciplines
Applicants must also be South African citizens.
Strong technical and analytical skills are important for these positions. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to interpret data and convert information into practical recommendations.
Good communication skills, teamwork abilities, and a reliable work ethic are also important requirements.
Skills and Competencies Required
PepsiCo is seeking motivated individuals who are eager to learn and capable of working in dynamic environments.
Important skills and attributes include:
- Good organizational skills
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently
- Problem-solving abilities
- Self-motivation
- Attention to detail
- Ability to adapt to changing environments
- Professional integrity
- Time management skills
Candidates should also be comfortable working within laboratory, pilot plant, and factory environments.
A valid driver’s license may provide an added advantage during the recruitment process.
Preferred Competencies
Preference may be given to candidates who demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively with multiple business functions including operations, commercialization teams, supply chain divisions, and external partners.
Knowledge of emerging technologies and the ability to apply scientific knowledge practically within manufacturing and product development environments will also be beneficial.
Creative thinking and innovation skills may further strengthen applications, particularly for product development and research-focused roles.
The company is also looking for individuals who can remain results-driven while working under pressure and adapting to increasing complexity within projects.
Learning and Career Growth Opportunities
The R&D WIL Learnership programme offers valuable workplace experience within one of the leading food and beverage companies globally. Participants will gain exposure to real-world research and development environments while building practical industry skills.
The programme also creates opportunities to learn about:
- Product development processes
- Food manufacturing systems
- Laboratory operations
- Pilot plant activities
- Quality assurance
- Regulatory compliance
- Project management
- Innovation support
Candidates will receive exposure to cross-functional teams and business operations that contribute to product development and commercialization processes.
Locations of the Learnerships
The available opportunities are spread across several locations in South Africa:
Isando
- Foods
- Productivity
- Seasoning
- Snacks
Cape Town
- Bakeries
- Nutrition Science
- Packaging
Ceres
- Beverages
Applicants are encouraged to apply for positions that align with academic qualifications and career interests.
Application Process
Interested candidates should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of qualification or latest results
- Any supporting certificates
Applications should be submitted through the official PepsiCo careers platform.
Why This Learnership Matters
Work Integrated Learning opportunities play an important role in helping students transition from academic learning into professional environments. Many South African graduates struggle to gain workplace exposure after completing theoretical studies, making programmes such as these highly valuable.
The PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership programme provides candidates with the opportunity to gain practical experience while learning directly from industry professionals within research and development environments.
Exposure to laboratory testing, product innovation, pilot plant operations, and production support can strengthen future employment opportunities within the food manufacturing and scientific sectors.
Candidates with a passion for food science, beverages, engineering, product development, nutrition science, and innovation are encouraged to apply for these exciting workplace learning opportunities at PepsiCo South Africa.