About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global powerhouse in beverages and convenient foods, with products enjoyed over one billion times daily across more than 200 countries. In 2021, PepsiCo achieved $79 billion in net revenue, fueled by iconic brands like Lay’s, Doritos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, and Quaker. Our pep+ strategy positions sustainability and human capital at the core, driving value within planetary boundaries while inspiring positive change for people and the planet. At the Durban Rice Plant in South Africa, PepsiCo upholds its commitment to innovation, quality, and community impact in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.

Role Overview

As a Millwright at PepsiCo's Durban Rice Plant, you will be the backbone of our production operations. This hands-on role involves electrically and mechanically maintaining site machinery to ensure maximum productivity and reliability. With a focus on planned maintenance, fault-finding on PLCs, and equipment repairs, you'll play a critical part in minimizing downtime and supporting our world-class rice production lines. This full-time position in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, suits skilled tradespeople passionate about engineering excellence in the food industry.

Why This Role Matters

In the competitive FMCG environment, reliable machinery is key to delivering PepsiCo's beloved products. Your expertise will directly contribute to operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability goals under pep+.

Key Responsibilities

The Millwright role demands precision and versatility. Core duties include:

• Electrically and mechanically maintaining site machinery to optimize performance.
• Conducting planned and preventative maintenance checks to prevent breakdowns.
• Testing units to evaluate electrical and mechanical operations.
• Fault-finding on programmable logic circuits (PLCs) and performing root cause analysis.
• Installing and assembling machinery, including welding and fabrication.
• Repairing equipment to ensure reliability and maximize production line productivity.
• Reading and interpreting blueprints for accurate installations.
• Adhering to safe working practices and leveraging reliability functions for support.

This role may involve off-shift, weekend, and standby duties, requiring your own vehicle for flexibility.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed, candidates need:

• Matric certificate plus N5-N6 qualifications.
• Millwright Trade Test certificate.
• At least 5 years of relevant maintenance experience in an FMCG environment.
• Strong technical skills for resolving complex engineering breakdowns.
• PLC and automation experience preferred.
• Team player mindset with a wireman’s license or willingness to obtain one.

PepsiCo values equal opportunity in line with South Africa's Employment Equity Act, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Benefits & Perks

Joining PepsiCo offers more than a job—it's a career launchpad. Enjoy:

• Competitive estimated salary of R650,000 - R950,000 annually, based on Food & Beverage sector rates with a buffer for top talent.
• Training opportunities, including support for wireman’s license attainment.
• Comprehensive health and safety protocols in a modern facility.
• Access to PepsiCo's global resources and professional development programs.
• Standby allowances and flexible shift premiums.
• Part of a collaborative team focused on innovation and sustainability.

Career Growth

PepsiCo invests in talent. As a Millwright, you'll gain exposure to advanced automation, reliability engineering, and leadership tracks. High performers advance to senior maintenance roles, automation specialists, or management in our expanding South African operations. Our pep+ initiative opens doors to sustainability-focused projects, enhancing your resume for global opportunities.

Professional Development

Expect mentorship, certifications in PLC programming, and cross-functional training to build a robust skill set in FMCG maintenance.

Why Join Us

At PepsiCo's Durban Rice Plant, you'll work with cutting-edge technology in a vibrant food production hub. Be part of a company shaping the future of beverages and snacks while enjoying job stability, competitive pay, and a positive culture. Durban's coastal location offers an ideal lifestyle balance, with PepsiCo fostering work-life integration through flexible scheduling. Join us to maintain the machinery powering billion-dollar brands and drive real impact.

Role FAQs

Q: Is experience in rice processing required?
A: While FMCG maintenance experience is essential, specific rice plant knowledge is a plus but trainable.

Q: What shifts are involved?
A: Full-time with potential off-shifts, weekends, and standby; own vehicle needed.

Q: Does PepsiCo sponsor training?
A: Yes, particularly for wireman’s license and PLC advancements.

Q: How does PepsiCo support diversity?
A: As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we align with the Employment Equity Act for inclusive hiring.

Q: What's the salary range?
A: Estimated R650,000 - R950,000 yearly, based on market rates.

Ready to power PepsiCo's production? Apply now for this Millwright role in Durban.