Unilever, one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies, is inviting applications from suitably qualified graduates to join its operations team as a Production Engineering Intern at the Anderbolt Factory in Boksburg, Gauteng. This is a 12-month full-time, on-site internship offering hands-on exposure to world-class manufacturing systems within a globally recognised organisation.
About the Role
Reporting to the Unit Manager or Operational Lead, the Production Engineering Intern will support safe, stable, high-quality, and efficient packaging operations through the application of Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS) methodologies. The role places a strong emphasis on packaging optimisation, process improvement, and waste and loss reduction — all under the mentorship of experienced engineers.
The intern will be actively involved in monitoring packaging line performance, collecting and analysing operational data, and contributing to initiatives aimed at improving line efficiency, throughput, and material utilisation. This includes exposure to line balancing, time studies, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) tracking — equipping the successful candidate with a solid foundation in industrial engineering principles and manufacturing systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Support waste and loss elimination on packaging lines using UMS methodologies, including AM, PM, FI, and Quality pillars
- Collect, validate, and analyse packaging line data such as throughput, downtime, reject rates, and OEE to identify inefficiencies
- Assist with line performance analysis, time studies, and capacity optimisation
- Support Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of packaging-related losses, including downtime and changeovers, and assist in implementing corrective actions
- Contribute to Run-to-Standard (R2S) by helping define and sustain optimal machine settings and standard operating procedures
- Support SMED (changeover reduction) and other continuous improvement activities to enhance uptime and line flexibility
- Assist in reducing Material Usage Variance (MUV) by analysing packaging material consumption and validating standards
- Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and quality teams to address day-to-day production challenges
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must hold or be in the process of completing one of the following qualifications:
- B.Sc. or B.Tech in Chemical Engineering
- B.Sc. or B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering
- B.Sc. or B.Tech in Industrial Engineering
- B.Sc. or B.Tech in Electrical Engineering
What Unilever Offers
This internship provides a unique opportunity to develop practical knowledge of manufacturing systems, packaging technologies, and continuous improvement methodologies within a high-performance, globally connected team. You will gain real-world experience working alongside professionals who are passionate about efficiency, sustainability, and delivering quality products to consumers.
Unilever is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and transformation. In line with the Employment Equity Act and B-BBEE legislation, preference will be given to candidates from designated groups.
Please note: Candidates must be legally authorised to work in South Africa. Foreign nationals may be required to provide supporting documentation.
How to Apply
Ready to engineer your future with Unilever? Submit your application through the link below:
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