ManEx Intern at Unilever

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.