ManEx Intern

Join us as a ManEx Intern

Function:Supply Chain

Reports to:Manufacturing Excellence Lead

Scope:Local

Location:Boksburg Factory

Terms & Conditions: 12 months’ internship – Full time, on-site

JOB PURPOSE

This role exists for a Manufacturing Excellence (ManEx) Operations Internship based at Unilever Boksburg Factory. The internship is focused on supporting the execution and sustainability of the Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS) at site level. The intern will work closely with the Site ManEx Lead, Production teams, and Pillar leaders to implement improvement initiatives, restore basic conditions, and embed World Class Manufacturing practices across the factor. 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

• The intern will support the implementation of Manufacturing Excellence systems by working directly with production teams and pillar leaders.

• Key responsibilities include:

• Support implementation and sustainability of UMS/World Class Manufacturing (WCM) activities on the shopfloor.

• Assist pillar leaders (AM, PM, FI, QC) in executing pillar plans, tracking actions, and maintaining standards.

• Support problem solving activities by assisting in root cause analysis and implementation of countermeasures.

• Participate in shopfloor activities to identify abnormalities, restore basic conditions, and improve line stability.

• Assist in development and deployment of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), One Point Lessons (OPLs), and technical standards.

• Support execution of Kaizens and focused improvement initiatives led by Production Engineers and the FI pillar.

• Participate in daily and weekly performance review routines and support closure of actions.

• Work with operators and technicians to improve adherence to standards and strengthen capability at line level.

• Assist in validation of implemented improvements to ensure sustainability of gains.

• Support implementation of visual management systems and 5S standards.

• Ensure adherence to Safety, Quality, and Environmental standards always.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Completed a degree or National Diploma in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

• Basic understanding of Manufacturing Excellence, Lean, TPM, or continuous improvement methodologies.

• Strong problem-solving mindset and willingness to work on the shop floor.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).

• High initiative and hands-on attitude.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Completed a degree or National Diploma in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

• Basic understanding of Manufacturing Excellence, Lean, TPM, or continuous improvement methodologies.

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 a site-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.