Start a Real‑World Career at Unilever – Automated Packaging Learnership 2026
If you’re a young South African who dreams of working in a factory, engineering a new product, or keeping a supply chain running smoothly, Unilever has a chance that could change your life. They’re looking for fresh talent for the Automated Packaging Learnership 2026 at the Maydon Wharf Factory in Durban. The application window closes on 21 January 2026, so act fast.
What the Job Is All About
- Job ID: R‑1172888
- Field: Supply Chain
- Location: Maydon Wharf, Durban
- Duration: 12 months (full‑time onsite)
- Pay: A monthly stipend is paid while you learn.
You won’t be stuck in a classroom. Instead, you’ll work on real production lines, learn how to operate automated machines, and earn a paycheck from one of the world’s biggest food and household brands. After you finish, you’ll have a strong foundation that many employers want.
Your Daily Tasks
During the year, you’ll rotate through a mix of roles that help you build skills step‑by‑step.
| Area | What You’ll Do |
|---|---|
| Production Line Operations | • Run line processes • Help keep the line clean and ready • Check that equipment and areas follow safety rules |
| Quality Monitoring | • Inspect packaging and products • Spot and report any problems right away • Help stop waste and keep the line running |
| Process Monitoring & Problem‑Solving | • Spot any unusual behaviour on the line • Fix small problems before they become big • Tell the right people if something needs more attention |
| Machine Cleaning & Maintenance | • Clean machines as per the manufacturer and factory rules |
| Raw Material Prep | • Get packaging materials ready for the next run |
| Sustainability & Safety | • Promote eco‑friendly practices • Keep yourself and your teammates safe • Help Unilever hit its green goals |
| Learnership Tasks | • Fill out logbooks, assignments, and tests • Make sure you finish all required training |
Who Can Apply
You only need to meet one of these qualifications:
- Matric (National Senior Certificate) with Maths and Physical Science or
- N2, N3, or N4 Engineering certification
You must be ready to work full‑time on site and live in or move to Durban on your own. No relocation help is included.
Why Unilever Wants You
Unilever looks beyond grades. They want people who:
- Take charge of their own work
- Stick with a task even when it gets tough
- Care about the quality of what they do and keep safety first
- Ask questions and look for ways to improve
- Spot problems before they become big
- Communicate well with teammates
- Keep the end customer in mind
Show these qualities in your CV and motivation letter.
How to Apply
Don’t wait—this offer ends on 21 January 2026. Submit your application through Unilever’s official portal:
Apply for the Unilever Automated Packaging Learnership 2026
Make a clean, factory‑ready CV. Highlight maths and science scores, engineering subjects, shift readiness, and safety knowledge. Avoid generic copy‑and‑paste templates.
What Happens After the Learnership
When you finish, you could move into roles such as:
- Packaging Machine Operator
- Production Line Operator
- Manufacturing Technician (with extra study)
- Process Controller
- Maintenance Assistant
- Supply Chain or Operations roles
You’ll also gain a solid industrial background that many employers value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the learnership paid?
Yes, you receive a monthly stipend.Will this be a permanent job?
No, it’s a 12‑month program, but it can open doors for future work.Can I apply with only a matric?
Yes, if you did Maths and Physical Science.Do I need prior work experience?
No. It’s designed for entry‑level learners.Will Unilever hire me after the program?
There’s no guarantee, but many move into contract, training, permanent factory roles, or other manufacturing jobs.Can I apply from outside Durban?
Yes, but you’ll need to cover your own move.
Final Notes
- Closing Date: 21 January 2026
- This article is for general information. Check Unilever’s careers site for the latest details.
- Edupstairs does not decide who gets selected.
- Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
- Meeting all requirements doesn’t guarantee a spot.
Good luck, and if this sounds like the first step toward a real career in manufacturing or engineering, apply today and start building a future you can be proud of.
