About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global powerhouse in the food and beverage industry, with products enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day across over 200 countries and territories. In 2021, PepsiCo generated more than $79 billion in net revenue, fueled by its iconic portfolio including Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. Many of these brands surpass $1 billion in annual retail sales, underscoring PepsiCo's market dominance.

Guiding this success is PepsiCo's vision to be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods through PepsiCo Positive (pep+). This strategic transformation places sustainability and human capital at its core, ensuring operations stay within planetary boundaries while driving positive change for people and the planet. At the Prospecton Plant Snacks in Durban, South Africa, PepsiCo upholds these principles, producing beloved snack brands with unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. For more insights, visit www.pepsico.com.

Role Overview

The Laboratory Intern (Temporary) position at PepsiCo's Prospecton Plant Snacks in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, offers a dynamic entry into the food and beverage sector. This hands-on role involves coordinating shift data, performing lab analyses, and ensuring top-tier product quality. Ideal for recent graduates in Food Technology, you'll support critical functions like equipment calibration, quality testing, and compliance with international standards such as HACCP, AIB, and FSSC 22000.

As a temporary intern, you'll work shifts, gaining practical experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This opportunity is perfect for building expertise in food safety, quality assurance, and data-driven decision-making while contributing to PepsiCo's world-class snack production.

Key Responsibilities

Data and Reporting

Coordinate all data collation on shift for accurate reporting of process statistics. Ensure all data reports are completed and results are communicated effectively to frontline teams, highlighting opportunities and corrective actions.

Lab Analysis and Quality Testing

Conduct routine analytical and product quality tests, including In-Market Testing. Investigate out-of-specification results, implement corrective actions, and perform ongoing troubleshooting to enhance quality results and data accuracy.

Compliance and Audits

Manage allergen swabbing, foreign objects, and customer complaints. Oversee HACCP monitoring, conduct internal ASHA Lab Audits, and support external audits like FSSC 22000 and AIB. Maintain AIB, food safety, and quality standards throughout operations.

Equipment and Stock Management

Handle calibration and maintenance of all lab equipment, control stock requirements, and manage on-hold, rejected, and released stock. Support trials, commissioning, new projects, production meetings, and lab training.

Projects and Improvement

Lead laboratory-specific projects and coordinate initiatives to improve quality and quality systems. Provide feedback on shifts and assist with documentation auditing and data analysis.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive in this Laboratory Intern role at PepsiCo, candidates need:

• Matric certificate plus a Food Technology Diploma or equivalent tertiary qualification.
• Computer literacy for data handling and reporting.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Key competencies: Integrity, attention to detail, analytical thinking, results-driven mindset, and excellent communication.
• Ability to work shifts in a production environment.

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer in line with the Employment Equity Act, ensuring fair access for all qualified candidates.

Benefits & Perks

As a Laboratory Intern at PepsiCo, you'll enjoy:

• Competitive estimated salary range of R65,000 - R95,000 annually, based on South African Food & Beverage sector rates.
• Immersion in a globally recognized company with cutting-edge technology and processes.
• Practical training, especially in lab procedures, under experienced professionals.
• Exposure to international standards like HACCP, AIB, and FSSC 22000.
• Shift flexibility and support for career-building projects.
• Inclusion in PepsiCo's pep+ sustainability initiatives, fostering purpose-driven work.

Career Growth

This internship is a launchpad for a thriving career in food quality assurance and manufacturing. PepsiCo invests in talent development, offering pathways from internships to full-time roles in quality control, production, and supply chain management. Gain skills in demand across the industry, network with leaders, and contribute to innovative projects that align with global sustainability goals. Many interns transition to permanent positions, building long-term careers at one of the world's top companies.

Why Join Us

Join PepsiCo's Prospecton Plant in Durban to be part of a legacy of excellence in snacks production. Work with iconic brands, drive quality innovations, and grow professionally in a supportive, inclusive environment. PepsiCo values integrity, results, and positive impact—qualities that define our team. In KwaZulu-Natal's vibrant hub, you'll contribute to products loved worldwide while advancing your expertise in food technology.

Role FAQs

Is this a full-time or temporary role?

This is a temporary Laboratory Intern position, ideal for gaining focused experience over a defined period.

What shifts will I work?

The role requires shift work to align with production schedules at the Prospecton Plant.

Do I need prior lab experience?

While experience is beneficial, the role emphasizes training, making it accessible for diploma holders eager to learn.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated at R65,000 - R95,000 per year, reflecting sector standards with a buffer for competitiveness.

How does PepsiCo support diversity?

As an Equal Opportunity Employer under the Employment Equity Act, we prioritize inclusive hiring and growth opportunities.