Exciting Opportunity for Unemployed Youth Interested in Food Science
A valuable learnership opportunity is now available for young South Africans who are eager to gain practical workplace experience while obtaining a nationally recognized qualification. The Learnership: Food Laboratory Analysis (NQF Level 3) offers successful candidates the chance to develop technical laboratory skills and gain exposure to the food manufacturing industry.
This programme is based in Swellendam, Western Cape, and is designed for unemployed individuals who have completed Matric and are looking to build a career in food quality assurance, laboratory analysis, and food safety.
The learnership combines structured workplace training with theoretical learning, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment while working towards an NQF Level 3 qualification in Food Laboratory Analysis.
Purpose of the Learnership
The primary purpose of this programme is to support the daily operations of the laboratory while providing learners with practical training in food laboratory procedures. Participants will assist qualified laboratory personnel with various testing, inspection, administrative, and quality assurance activities.
Throughout the programme, learners will develop an understanding of food safety systems, laboratory practices, and quality control processes that are essential within the food manufacturing sector.
Key Responsibilities
Successful learners will be involved in a variety of laboratory and quality-related activities, including:
Laboratory Testing and Analysis
Participants will assist with performing basic analytical and quality testing on edible oils, mayonnaise, and other food products. This includes conducting routine laboratory procedures such as wet chemistry tests and visual inspections to ensure products meet food safety and quality standards.
Support for Laboratory Operations
Learners will assist laboratory analysts with daily tasks and routine checks in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. This provides valuable exposure to professional laboratory procedures and quality management systems.
Administrative Duties
The programme also includes administrative responsibilities such as filing documents, scanning records, compiling data, and maintaining laboratory documentation. Accurate record-keeping is an important aspect of laboratory work and quality assurance.
Sample Reception and Management
Learners will assist in receiving, logging, labeling, and storing samples. They will also help manage retainer samples and ensure that samples are handled according to established laboratory procedures.
Sample Preparation
Participants will support the preparation of samples for both internal and external analysis. This includes preparing materials for testing and ensuring that samples are ready for laboratory instruments and scheduled analytical procedures.
Hygiene and Inspection Activities
The role includes assisting with truck inspections, hygiene assessments, and incoming raw material inspections. These activities help ensure compliance with food safety standards throughout the production process.
Equipment and Glassware Cleaning
Maintaining a clean laboratory environment is essential. Learners will assist with cleaning laboratory glassware and instrumentation while following established safety and quality procedures.
Stock Management
The programme provides exposure to stock control activities, including stock-taking and the safe handling of laboratory chemicals and supplies.
Data Collection and Verification
Learners will help gather, record, and capture data required for verification activities, contributing to the laboratory’s quality assurance processes.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Health and safety are critical components of the programme. Learners will be expected to:
- Participate in safety meetings and safety talks.
- Report safety incidents to supervisors or Health and Safety Officers.
- Attend safety training and refresher programmes.
- Follow company safety policies and procedures at all times.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment where required.
These responsibilities help create a safe working environment and ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this learnership, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Successfully completed Grade 12 (Matric) or an equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification.
- Currently unemployed.
- Not participating in another learnership programme.
- Willing to commit to the full duration of the learnership.
- Demonstrate an interest in science-related fields.
While subjects such as Biology and Physics are not mandatory requirements, they may be advantageous for applicants who have studied them.
Desired Skills and Attributes
The employer is seeking motivated individuals who possess the following qualities:
Strong Communication Skills
Learners must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and laboratory staff.
Good Time Management
The ability to manage tasks efficiently and meet deadlines is important in a laboratory environment.
Analytical Thinking
Candidates should enjoy problem-solving and have a logical approach to tasks and investigations.
Quality and Food Safety Awareness
An interest in maintaining high standards of food quality and safety is essential for success in this role.
Commitment and Accountability
Successful learners should take ownership of their responsibilities and demonstrate reliability in their daily work.
Willingness to Learn
The programme is designed to develop new skills, making a positive attitude and eagerness to learn extremely important.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
This learnership offers participants an excellent opportunity to gain industry-relevant experience while obtaining a recognized qualification. Learners will develop practical laboratory skills, gain exposure to food manufacturing operations, and improve their employability within the food and beverage industry.
The experience gained during the programme can open doors to future opportunities in laboratory analysis, quality assurance, food safety, production support, and related scientific fields.
Application Details
Position: Learnership: Food Laboratory Analysis (NQF Level 3)
Reference ID: FLA2026
Location: Swellendam, Western Cape, South Africa
Number of Opportunities: 3
Opening Date: 28 May 2026
Closing Date: 02 June 2026
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the company’s official careers page before the closing date. Early applications are recommended as only a limited number of positions are available.