Chemical Engineering Internship – Unilever YES Programme

Location: La Lucia Head Office, Durban, KwaZulu-NatalDuration: 12 monthsProgramme: Youth Employment Service (YES) About This Opportunity Are you a passionate Chemical or Mechanical Engineering graduate ready to launch your career with one of the world’s most iconic companies? Unilever is offering an exceptional 12-month internship through the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme – a transformative…


Location: La Lucia Head Office, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Duration: 12 months
Programme: Youth Employment Service (YES)


About This Opportunity

Are you a passionate Chemical or Mechanical Engineering graduate ready to launch your career with one of the world’s most iconic companies? Unilever is offering an exceptional 12-month internship through the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme – a transformative experience designed to bridge the gap between education and meaningful employment.

This isn’t just an internship; it’s your launchpad into the professional world. You’ll be immersed in real-world business challenges, working alongside industry experts in our Research & Development function at our prestigious La Lucia Head Office in Durban.


About Unilever

With 3.4 billion people across 190 countries using our products daily, Unilever makes a genuine impact on lives worldwide. From household names in personal care and nutrition to sustainability pioneers, we’re driven by a powerful purpose: making sustainable living commonplace. When you join Unilever, you’re not just building a career – you’re contributing to a better business and a better world.


What You’ll Do

As a Chemical Engineering Intern, you’ll support our dynamic Research & Development team, gaining hands-on experience in:

  • Supporting product development and innovation projects
  • Contributing to technical problem-solving initiatives
  • Assisting with research activities and quality processes
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams on real business challenges
  • Developing practical skills in a fast-paced, professional environment

This role offers accelerated learning opportunities where you’ll be exposed to cutting-edge technologies, industry best practices, and the inner workings of a global organization committed to innovation and sustainability.


What We’re Looking For

Essential Requirements:

  • South African citizen aged 18-34 years
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering
  • Currently unemployed and not studying full-time
  • Maximum 2 years’ work experience
  • Strong academic record demonstrating excellence
  • Commitment to completing the full 12-month programme
  • Must not have previously participated in a YES Programme

Key Skills & Attributes:

  • Excellent computer literacy and technical aptitude
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities
  • Effective time management and organizational skills
  • Collaborative mindset with strong team-working capabilities
  • Positive, proactive attitude with willingness to learn
  • Alignment with Unilever’s core behaviors: Care Deeply, Focus on What Counts, Stay Three Steps Ahead, and Deliver with Excellence

Why Choose Unilever?

Professional Growth: Gain invaluable work experience that will set you apart in the job market and provide a solid foundation for your engineering career.

Meaningful Impact: Work on brands that touch billions of lives while contributing to sustainability and social responsibility initiatives.

Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse, collaborative environment where your unique perspective is valued and your whole self is welcomed.

Skills Development: Access structured learning opportunities, mentorship, and exposure to best-in-class practices that will accelerate your professional development.


How to Apply

Submit your application including:

  • Updated CV
  • Certified copy of your highest qualification (Grade 12 certificate and Engineering degree)

Unilever is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. This initiative forms part of our transformation objectives, and preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Act.

If you require any accessibility support during the application process, please let us know so we can accommodate your needs.


Don’t miss this opportunity to shape your future with a company that’s reimagining the world of work. Apply today and take the first step toward an extraordinary career journey with Unilever.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *