South African Breweries (SAB), one of South Africa’s most admired companies and the country’s largest brewer, is inviting applications for its 18-month Engineering Trainee Programme. This is a structured opportunity designed to develop technically skilled graduates who are ready to take on areas of responsibility from day one.

About SAB

SAB has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy for over a century. With 7 breweries, 42 depots, a workforce of approximately 5 000 employees, and a beer economy supporting over 250 000 jobs across the value chain, the company operates at significant scale. Its brand portfolio includes Castle Lager, Carling Black Label, Corona, Brutal Fruit, and Flying Fish — names that are woven into the fabric of South African life.

At SAB, ambition is not a buzzword. It is a standard. The company actively seeks graduates with the passion, curiosity, and drive to grow within a high-performance environment.

About the Programme

The Engineering Trainee Programme is an 18-month structured initiative built to equip graduates with the technical skills, operational experience, and cultural grounding needed to perform effectively in a complex brewery environment. The programme is primarily hands-on and self-directed, supported by structured learning and active participation in brewery operations.

Trainees rotate across departments, gaining a thorough understanding of equipment theory, principles, and operation. Where possible, trainees participate in leadership roles within team structures, preparing them to step into responsibilities immediately upon completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the theory, principles, and operation of equipment across multiple departments
• Participate in projects aligned to programme requirements and brewery priorities
• Apply Voyager Plant Optimisation (VPO) principles in daily work
• Diagnose systemic and situational problems and contribute to troubleshooting efforts
• Participate in team structures, including acting roles in identified leadership positions
• Communicate learnings and solutions across various levels of the business

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must hold one of the following qualifications:

• BSc, BEng, BTech or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical/Electronics, Energy, or Mechatronics Engineering
• BSc in Chemical Engineering
• BSc or BTech in Biotechnology, Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or Biology

Additional Information

This position is graded at Band VIII. SAB is an equal opportunity employer. All appointments are made in line with the company’s Employment Equity Plan and talent requirements. Management reserves the right to consider additional relevant criteria during shortlisting beyond the minimum requirements listed.

Candidates who meet the above requirements and are looking for a launchpad into a technically demanding and rewarding career in one of South Africa’s most established manufacturing environments are encouraged to apply.

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