
Unilever South Africa (Pty) Limited
Unilever South Africa offers a variety of internship and early career programmes designed to develop young talent across multiple business functions. These internships provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world business challenges within a global FMCG leader. Key areas for internships include Marketing, Research & Development, Finance, Supply Chain, Human Resources, Communications, IT, Legal, Procurement, and Customer Development.
Unilever also runs flagship programmes like the Unilever Future Leaders Programme (UFLP), which is a leadership development track for graduates. The company emphasizes sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, aiming to empower interns to bring their authentic selves to work while contributing to a better business and a better world.
An internship or career at Unilever offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies while contributing to meaningful initiatives that drive sustainability, innovation, and community development. With diverse roles spanning production, marketing, supply chain, IT, finance, HR, sales, logistics, and more, Unilever is an attractive destination for students, graduates, and professionals passionate about the consumer goods industry.
Popular Internship and Career Roles at Unilever
1. Production and Manufacturing
- Production Intern : Gains hands-on experience in overseeing production lines, quality control, and process optimization.
- Maintenance Engineer Trainee : Learns to maintain and optimize machinery used in manufacturing facilities.
- Quality Assurance Trainee : Assists in ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards for consumer goods.
2. Supply Chain and Logistics
- Supply Chain Intern : Supports initiatives related to procurement, inventory management, and logistics processes.
- Logistics Coordinator Trainee : Learns to oversee transportation, warehousing, and distribution of consumer goods.
3. Marketing and Brand Management
- Marketing Intern : Supports brand campaigns, market research, and promotional activities.
- Brand Ambassador Trainee : Gains experience in promoting Unilever products and engaging with customers at events and in-store.
4. Research and Development (R&D)
- R&D Intern : Assists in developing new products, improving existing ones, and ensuring compliance with nutritional and safety standards.
- Product Developer Trainee : Learns to analyze ingredients, test recipes, and ensure product safety and quality.
5. Information Technology (IT)
- IT Support Intern : Provides technical assistance and resolves hardware/software issues.
- Systems Analyst Trainee : Learns to manage databases and ensure the smooth operation of IT systems used in operations and logistics.
Salaries and Stipends for Unilever Internships and Careers
1. Internship Stipends
Interns at Unilever typically receive a monthly stipend to cover basic expenses. Below are general ranges:
Internship Stipends : ZAR 5,000 – ZAR 12,000 per month
Exact amounts depend on the department, location, and level of education (e.g., undergraduate vs. postgraduate).
2. Entry-Level Salaries
For full-time positions after completing an internship or degree:
- Marketing Specialist : ZAR 20,000 – ZAR 35,000 per month
- Supply Chain Coordinator : ZAR 18,000 – ZAR 30,000 per month
- IT Specialist : ZAR 20,000 – ZAR 35,000 per month
- Finance Assistant : ZAR 18,000 – ZAR 30,000 per month
- HR Assistant : ZAR 18,000 – ZAR 28,000 per month
- Sales Representative : ZAR 15,000 – ZAR 25,000 per month (plus performance-based incentives)
3. Benefits for Full-Time Employees
In addition to salaries, full-time employees may receive benefits such as:
- Medical aid
- Pension contributions
- Employee discounts on Unilever products
- Professional development opportunities
- Performance bonuses
Requirements for Unilever Internships and Careers
Educational Qualifications
Internships :
Enrolled in or recently completed a relevant degree or diploma program (e.g., marketing, engineering, IT, business, finance). Strong academic performance is preferred.
Full-Time Roles :
A bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field is typically required. Advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., advanced marketing certification, IT certification) may be advantageous for specialized roles.
How to Apply for Unilever Internships and Careers
There are several ways to apply for internships and full-time roles at Unilever:
Official Website
- Visit the official website of Unilever : www.unilever.co.za .
- Navigate to the “Careers” or “Job Opportunities” section to view current internship and job openings.
- Create an account, upload your CV/resume, and apply directly to the positions that match your qualifications.