Listing Reference: FLA25
Listing Status: Open

Position Summary
Company: Southern Oil (SOILL)
Industry: FMCG / Food Science
Job Category: Learnership / Food Laboratory
Location: Swellendam, Western Cape
Contract Type: 12-Month Fixed-Term Learnership
Remuneration: Stipend provided during programme
EE Position: Yes, preference to local candidates
Closing Date: 30 June 2025

Introduction
Southren Oil NQF 3 Food Laboratory Learnerships 2025 Southern Oil (SOILL), the leading canola oil manufacturer in Africa, is offering a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals in the food science industry. The company has announced its Learnership: NQF 3 Food Laboratory Analysis programme, open to young, unemployed South Africans eager to gain hands-on experience in the FMCG sector. This learnership is aimed at building skills, providing national certification, and opening the door to further growth within the food technology field. With seven positions available, this is an excellent chance to kickstart a meaningful career in food science and laboratory analysis.

Founded in 1993, SOILL is well-known for its popular consumer brands including B-well, Nuts About Cooking, and African Gold. As a company rooted in health, sustainability and community impact, SOILL’s mission is not only to deliver top-quality edible oils but to uplift the people and communities that contribute to its success. This learnership reflects that commitment, offering a platform for young individuals to thrive in a supportive, high-performance environment.

Job Description
The NQF Level 3 Food Laboratory Analysis Learnership is a structured programme designed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical workplace experience. Over 12 months, learners will be exposed to laboratory procedures, food testing techniques, and quality assurance systems, all while being mentored by seasoned professionals in the industry.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the principles of food laboratory analysis and quality control
• Gain familiarity with laboratory instruments and sample testing processes
• Adhere to industry hygiene and safety standards
• Develop reporting skills and the ability to interpret test results
• Participate in real-time quality assurance processes within a production environment
• Build workplace readiness and soft skills essential for long-term career success

This opportunity is ideal for young South Africans with a passion for science and a drive to excel in the food manufacturing sector. Learners will gain exposure to one of Africa’s largest edible oil producers and will be actively involved in maintaining the quality of high-demand FMCG products that reach households across the country.

Requirements
To qualify for the NQF 3 Food Laboratory Analysis Learnership, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must have successfully completed Grade 12 (Matric) or possess an NQF Level 4 equivalent
• Must be currently unemployed
• Must not be enrolled in any other learnership, internship, or study programme
• Willing and able to commit to the full 12-month duration of the programme
• Preference will be given to candidates residing in Swellendam or nearby areas

Role Responsibility
Participants in the learnership will take on various responsibilities aligned with laboratory operations and food quality testing. These include:

• Assisting in daily lab routines such as sample collection and preparation
• Performing basic testing and measurements on food products
• Recording data accurately and maintaining laboratory logs
• Supporting senior technicians with equipment calibration and maintenance
• Adhering to all health and safety regulations within the lab environment
• Ensuring cleanliness and orderliness of laboratory spaces
• Participating in group training sessions and assessments as part of the learnership programme

The role is structured to allow learners to rotate through various food science and laboratory departments, giving a holistic understanding of what is required to thrive in this field.

Skills & Attributes
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a mix of technical aptitude and personal characteristics that align with SOILL’s workplace culture. These include:

• Attention to detail and a strong commitment to accuracy
• Eagerness to learn and develop professionally
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to follow procedures and maintain high standards
• Time management and the ability to prioritize tasks
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Willingness to be mentored and coached by experienced professionals

These qualities will not only help the learner succeed in the programme but will also position them for long-term success in the competitive food industry.

SEE ALSO: ARTISAN ELECTRICIAN (6 POSTS) – City of Tshwane, Gauteng

How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit the following documents to be considered for the learnership:

• A comprehensive CV
• A clear copy of your Matric certificate or NQF Level 4 qualification
• A certified copy of your South African ID

Applications must be sent to reney@soill.co.za on or before 30 June 2025. Make sure to quote the reference: FLA25 in your email subject line.

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and assessments.

Conclusion
The SOILL NQF Level 3 Learnership in Food Laboratory Analysis presents a rare opportunity for unemployed matriculants or equivalent graduates to step into the exciting world of food science and quality assurance. As a reputable FMCG employer, SOILL not only provides practical workplace exposure but also invests in personal development and long-term employability of its learners. With a 12-month full-time commitment, successful applicants will gain a solid foundation in laboratory analysis, earn a recognised qualification, and gain skills that are in high demand across the food production and processing industry.

Apply here