Process Engineering Intern

Join us asProcess Engineering Intern

Function:Supply Chain

Reports to: Unit Manager/Operational Lead

Scope:Local

Location: Anderbolt Factory

Terms & Conditions: 12 months internship, Full time, onsite

JOB PURPOSE

This role exists to support safe, stable, high-quality, and efficient operations within the process cell through the application and learning of Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS) methodologies. The Process Engineering Intern assists in identifying improvement opportunities, supporting process optimization activities, and contributing to loss elimination initiatives under the guidance of experienced engineers.

The intern will help in monitoring process performance, collecting and analysing data, and supporting efforts to improve process control and equipment reliability while gaining exposure to manufacturing standards and best practices. The role contributes to maintaining consistent product quality and operational efficiency by assisting in problem-solving activities and continuous improvement projects.

Working closely with operations, maintenance, and quality teams, the intern will build foundational technical and problem-solving skills while supporting day-to-day operational challenges and innovation initiatives. This role provides an opportunity to develop an understanding of manufacturing systems, teamwork, and continuous improvement principles, while contributing to a culture of safety, quality awareness, accountability, and operational excellence.

You’ll be part of a team that believes in doing work that matters — for people and the planet. Because here, we don’t just hire for jobs. We invite you to be part of something bigger.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support elimination of waste and losses using UMS methodologies (AM, PM, FI, Q pillars) aligned with prioritization processes.

• Collect, validate, and analyse process data to identify losses, trends, and improvement opportunities.

• Assist with Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of process losses and support implementation and validation of corrective actions.

• Contribute to Run-to-Standard (R2S) activities, including data gathering, loss prioritization, SMED support, and defining basic machine settings (centerlines/process parameters).

• Help develop and maintain technical standards to improve process stability and sustain basic conditions.

• Support training and knowledge sharing with line teams on standards, problem-solving, and restoration of basic conditions.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives such as NVAA reduction, yield improvement, and waste minimization.

• Assist in improving data accuracy to ensure reliable loss tree and manufacturing insights.

• Support material efficiency improvements, including analysis of Material Usage Variance (MUV) and validation of BOMs and process standards.

• Contribute to chemical mass balance analysis for process understanding and optimization of set points in batch systems.

• Identify and share good practices across process streams with guidance from senior engineers.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• B.Sc. OR B. Tech Chem Eng / Mech Eng / Industrial Eng / Electrical Eng

SKILLS

Core Technical Skills

• Proficiency in WCM tools: AM, PM, FI, QC 

• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and problem-solving 

• Data analysis and loss tree interpretation 

• Line balancing and bottleneck analysis 

• OEE monitoring and improvement 

Quality & Compliance

• Understanding of quality systems and QEWO process 

• Process control and corrective action implementation 

Documentation & Standards

• SOP and technical standard development 

• Machine setting standardization 

Training & Capability Building

• Operator training on AM/PM standards 

• Coaching and knowledge transfer 

Innovation & Change Support

• Trial execution and technical support for changes 

• Baseline setting and impact analysis 

Leadership & Soft Skills

• Team collaboration and communication

• Performance culture promotion

• Adherence to safety and HR policies

At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.

Unilever is an equal opportunities employer and committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.  We are intentional in employing the best talent that reflects the demographics of our country, and which will help build representation of currently under-represented groups. We therefore invite applications from all candidates representing diversity of age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief. When appointing potential candidates, the South African Employment Equity and Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Legislation will be considered. 

We are required by law to verify your ability to work lawfully in South Africa. If you are applying as a foreign national, please note that you may be requested to provide supporting documents supporting this.

This is an office-based role in Boksburg and requires 100% of time attendance on site.

Unilever is an organisation committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our diverse employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. At Unilever we are interested in every individual bringing their ‘Whole Self’ to work and this includes you! Thus if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.

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