The PepsiCo South Africa Laboratory Internship 2026 offers students and graduates hands-on training in food quality, lab analysis, and manufacturing processes at the Prospecton Plant Snacks division.
Programme Overview
The PepsiCo South Africa Laboratory Internship 2026 at the Prospecton Plant Snacks division provides students and recent graduates with an opportunity to gain practical laboratory experience within a global leader in the food and beverage industry. This internship is designed to develop technical skills, quality control expertise, and analytical capabilities in a professional manufacturing environment.
PepsiCo is a multinational corporation with a portfolio of iconic brands, including Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. The company is committed to sustainability and human capital development through its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy, which focuses on operating responsibly while driving growth for both people and the planet.
Internship Responsibilities
Interns at the Prospecton Plant Snacks laboratory are expected to participate in various tasks that support quality assurance and product safety. Key responsibilities include:
- Collating and coordinating shift data for reporting purposes
- Performing routine analytical and product quality tests, including in-market testing
- Investigating out-of-specification results and implementing corrective actions
- Troubleshooting issues to improve quality results and data accuracy
- Communicating results and feedback to production teams
- Conducting allergen swabbing and managing foreign objects or customer complaints
- Calibrating and maintaining laboratory equipment
- Controlling stock requirements and conducting documentation audits
- Coordinating laboratory projects to enhance quality systems
- Monitoring HACCP compliance and ensuring adherence to AIB, FSSC 22000, and food safety standards
- Supporting internal and external laboratory audits
- Assisting with trials, commissioning, or new project implementation
- Participating in production meetings and supporting lab training activities
This combination of tasks provides interns with hands-on exposure to laboratory operations and quality management in a large-scale manufacturing environment.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for the PepsiCo Laboratory Internship 2026 must meet the following qualifications:
- Matric certificate plus a Food Technology Diploma or equivalent tertiary qualification
- Computer literacy and proficiency with relevant software
- Strong written and oral communication skills
Desired Competencies
- High level of integrity
- Attention to detail and analytical thinking
- Results-driven with a proactive approach
- Ability to work in shifts
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
PepsiCo is committed to equal employment opportunities in line with the Employment Equity Act, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Discover New Internships and Learnership Programs Below
- Apprenticeships
- Blog
- Bursaries
- Government Vacancies
- Internships SA
- Learnerships
- Uncategorized
- Yes Programme
Career Value of the Internship
Practical Industry Experience
Interns gain real-world laboratory experience in a global food manufacturing setting, learning to manage data, conduct quality tests, and participate in compliance and audit processes.
Skill Development
The internship develops technical skills in food quality analysis, laboratory procedures, HACCP monitoring, and problem-solving, while also improving professional competencies such as communication, teamwork, and reporting.
Exposure to International Standards
Participants gain insight into global food safety and quality standards, including FSSC 22000 and AIB, which are widely recognised in the industry.
Professional Networking
Interns have the opportunity to work alongside experienced quality assurance professionals, fostering connections that can support future career opportunities within PepsiCo or the broader food and beverage sector.
Application Process
Ensure that all academic qualifications, personal information, and supporting documents are accurate and up to date. Applications submitted through alternative channels will not be considered.
Closing date: Applicants are encouraged to apply promptly as intake slots are limited, although no specific closing date is listed.
Conclusion
The PepsiCo South Africa Laboratory Internship 2026 at the Prospecton Plant Snacks division provides a structured pathway for students and recent graduates to gain practical laboratory experience, develop technical and analytical skills, and understand food quality management in a professional manufacturing setting. This internship offers significant career value for those aspiring to work in food technology, quality assurance, and manufacturing sectors.
