Job Openings at Unilever

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

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JOB PURPOSE

• Unilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world. The Mechanical Technician is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of mechanical assets within a high-volume washing powder manufacturing plant. The role involves maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and continuous improvement of heavy mechanical systems such as conveyor belts, large horsepower pumps, small pumps, pneumatics, and dust extraction systems.
• This role is critical in supporting Unilever’s goal of achieving world-class manufacturing standards, minimizing downtime, and driving continuous improvement in line with safety, quality, cost, and sustainability objectives. If this resonates with you, then this role is just for you!

WHAT WILL YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES BE
Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform planned preventive maintenance (PPM), corrective, and predictive maintenance on mechanical assets (conveyors, pumps, pneumatics, dust extraction systems, gearboxes, couplings, seals, and rotating equipment).
• Diagnose root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Respond promptly to breakdowns, ensuring minimal production disruption.
• Ensure effective lubrication, alignment, balancing, and calibration of mechanical systems.

Installation & Commissioning

• Install, commission, and upgrade mechanical equipment and systems to support plant expansion or optimization projects.
• Participate in start-up activities, ensuring equipment is set up according to specifications.

Reliability & Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to reliability engineering initiatives such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), RCA (Root Cause Analysis), and FMEA (Failure Mode & Effects Analysis).
• Suggest and implement cost-saving or efficiency-enhancing mechanical improvements.
• Support digitization and automation upgrades in line with Industry 4.0 and Unilever’s smart factory vision.

Compliance & Safety

• Work strictly within Unilever’s safety and health guidelines (OSH Act, Factory Regulations, and ISO standards).
• Conduct risk assessments and comply with Lockout-Tagout-Try Out (LOTOTO), permit-to-work, and other safety protocols.
• Ensure dust extraction and pneumatic systems meet environmental and occupational health requirements.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate maintenance records in CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
• Document mechanical inspections, repairs, and parts usage.
• Provide technical feedback to supervisors and support preparation of weekly/monthly engineering reports.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUCCEED
Experiences & Qualifications

• National Diploma (NQF 6) in Mechanical Engineering or Trade Test Certification as a Mechanical Fitter/Millwright (Red Seal).
• Additional training in pneumatics, hydraulics, or pumps will be advantageous.
• Minimum 5 years’ hands-on experience in a heavy manufacturing/processing environment (preferably FMCG, detergent, chemical, cement, or mining).
• Strong knowledge of conveyor systems, pumps (centrifugal, positive displacement, high HP), and pneumatics.
• Experience with dust extraction and air-handling systems.
• Proven track record in mechanical fault-finding and root cause analysis.
• Exposure to TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) or WCM (World Class Manufacturing) preferred.

Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics.
• Knowledge of lubrication systems, alignment techniques, and vibration analysis.
• Familiarity with CMMS e.g. BuildApp.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and hands-on technical approach.
• Ability to work shifts and be available for standby/after-hours support.
• Team player with strong communication skills to work across operations, engineering, and SHE (Safety, Health & Environment) teams.

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JOB PURPOSE

• This role exists to support safe, stable, high-quality, and efficient packaging operations through the application and learning of Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS) methodologies, with a strong focus on packaging optimization. The Packaging Production Intern assists in identifying inefficiencies within packaging lines, supporting process improvement initiatives, and contributing to waste and loss reduction under the guidance of experienced engineers.
• The intern will support monitoring of packaging line performance, collecting and analysing operational data, and contributing to initiatives aimed at improving line efficiency, throughput, and material utilization. The role includes exposure to line balancing, time studies, and packaging optimization techniques to enhance productivity and reduce non-value-added activities while maintaining product quality and compliance with packaging standards.
• Working closely with operations, maintenance, and quality teams, the intern will help address day-to-day production challenges while developing foundational skills in process analysis, problem-solving, and continuous improvement. The role also supports innovation in packaging processes and contributes to improving equipment reliability and operational consistency.
• This position provides an opportunity to build practical knowledge of manufacturing systems, industrial engineering principles, and packaging technologies, while contributing to a culture of safety, quality ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement—ensuring products are efficiently packaged and consistently meet consumer expectations.
• 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 on packaging lines using UMS methodologies (AM, PM, FI, Q pillars) with a focus on packaging efficiency and material utilization.
• Collect, validate, and analyse packaging line data (e.g., throughput, downtime, rejects, OEE) to identify inefficiencies and improvement opportunities.
• Assist in line performance analysis, including time studies, line balancing, and capacity optimization to improve productivity.
• Support Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of packaging-related losses (e.g., downtime, changeovers, material waste) and assist in implementing corrective actions.
• Contribute to Run-to-Standard (R2S) by helping define and sustain optimal machine settings, operating conditions, and standard work for packaging processes.
• Assist in packaging optimization initiatives, including reduction of material waste, improvement of pack designs, and efficient use of packaging materials.
• Support SMED (changeover reduction) and other continuous improvement activities to enhance line flexibility and uptime.
• Help develop, update, and sustain technical and operational standards to ensure packaging process stability.
• Participate in NVAA (Non-Value-Added Activity) reduction through workflow and process improvements.
• Assist in improving data accuracy (e.g., MMP codes) to ensure reliable tracking of losses and packaging performance.
• Support initiatives to reduce Material Usage Variance (MUV) by analysing packaging material consumption and validating standards.
• Identify and share best practices across packaging lines to improve consistency and efficiency.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and quality teams to address day-to-day packaging challenges and support continuous improvement projects.

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