PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnerships 2026

PepsiCo is offering Research and Development (R&D) Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Learnerships for 2026 in South Africa. This opportunity is designed for students in scientific and engineering fields who need practical workplace exposure to complete their qualifications. The programme provides hands-on experience in laboratory testing, product development, pilot plant trials, and food production processes, making it ideal for students pursuing careers in food science, biotechnology, or process engineering.

---

Overview of the R&D WIL Programme

The PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership is structured to help students apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world manufacturing and research environment. Participants will support the South African R&D team in executing trials, analysing product performance, and assisting with innovation projects.

This programme is especially suited for final-year students who have completed the theoretical portion of their studies and require workplace training to graduate.

---

Key Responsibilities During the Learnership

Learners in this programme will work closely with R&D Technologists and Managers to support research projects and product development activities.

Core responsibilities include:

• Assisting with trial protocols and coordinating trial activities
• Supporting pilot plant and factory trials
• Conducting routine laboratory tests and product quality analysis
• Collecting base product samples from production lines
• Supporting seasoning applications and ensuring product specifications are met

These tasks provide direct exposure to how new food products are developed, tested, and prepared for large-scale production.

---

Laboratory and Analytical Testing Experience

Participants will gain practical experience conducting essential laboratory tests used in the food manufacturing industry, including:

• Salt analysis
• Oil analysis
• Moisture analysis
• Bulk density testing
• Particle size analysis

This analytical work helps ensure that products meet strict quality and safety standards before being released to the market.

---

Exposure to Pilot Plant and Production Trials

The learnership includes involvement in both pilot plant and factory-scale production trials. Learners will:

• Assist in setting up trial equipment
• Attend and observe factory trial runs
• Support scale-up activities from laboratory to full production
• Document trial outcomes and support technical reporting

This exposure helps students understand the transition from laboratory product concepts to commercial manufacturing processes.

---

Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams

During the programme, learners will work with various business units within PepsiCo, including:

• Supply Chain and Operations
• Commercialisation teams
• Regulatory and compliance departments
• External technology partners and equipment suppliers

This collaboration helps learners develop strong communication and teamwork skills in a corporate environment.

---

Skills You Will Develop

The PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership helps students develop both technical and professional competencies, such as:

• Laboratory testing and analytical skills
• Data interpretation and statistical understanding
• Technical report writing and documentation
• Project planning and timeline management
• Problem-solving and process optimisation

These skills are highly valued in food science, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries.

---

Work Environment and Learning Structure

Learners will work in a combination of environments, including:

• Research laboratories
• Pilot plant facilities
• Production factories
• Office-based project planning and reporting spaces

This variety ensures a well-rounded learning experience that covers the full product development lifecycle.

---

Benefits of Completing a WIL Programme at PepsiCo

Completing Work Integrated Learning with a global organisation such as PepsiCo offers several advantages:

• Exposure to industry-standard food manufacturing technologies
• Experience working under internationally recognised quality systems
• Opportunity to work with experienced scientists and technologists
• Improved employability after graduation

WIL placements at multinational companies significantly strengthen a graduate’s CV and professional network.

---

Minimum Requirements to Apply

To be considered for the PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnerships 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Must have successfully completed the theoretical portion of a scientific or engineering qualification
• Must be in their final year of study and require workplace training to graduate
• Must be a South African citizen
• Must have achieved an academic average of at least 60%

Preferred Skills and Personal Attributes

While not mandatory, the following qualities will strengthen an application:

• Strong analytical and technical skills
• Basic knowledge of statistics and data interpretation
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• High level of self-motivation and organisational ability
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Candidates who demonstrate curiosity, initiative, and attention to detail tend to perform well in research environments.

How to Apply for PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnerships 2026

Apply here online for PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnerships 2026

Closing date: not specified