The HEINEKEN Company is inviting suitably qualified South African students to apply for its Internship Programme for 2026. This opportunity is based at the Gqeberha Production Plant in the Eastern Cape and is aimed at students who require practical workplace experience as part of their formal qualification.
The internship is offered within the Quality Department, where the successful candidate will report directly to the Quality Assurance Manager. This programme is designed to expose interns to real-world quality systems, production environments, and professional workplace standards within a globally recognised organisation.
Internship Overview
The internship will be offered on a 12-month fixed-term contract, commencing on 01 July 2026 and concluding on 30 June 2027. The successful intern will gain hands-on experience while completing academic requirements linked to a National Diploma or Degree.
This programme focuses on providing meaningful workplace exposure to students studying towards qualifications in Food Technology, Analytical Chemistry, Biotechnology, or Microbiology.
Internship Location and Department
The internship will be based at the HEINEKEN Gqeberha Production Plant in the Eastern Cape. The role falls within the Quality Department, and the intern will work closely with quality assurance professionals in a structured manufacturing environment.
Purpose of the Internship
The primary purpose of this internship is to provide practical work experience to students who are currently completing their tertiary studies. The programme supports the development of technical, analytical, and professional skills required within quality-driven production environments.
Key Learning Areas
During the internship period, the successful candidate will be exposed to a variety of learning areas. These include quality control and quality assurance processes, both intrinsic and extrinsic controls, and the application of quality management systems. The intern will also gain exposure to research activities, production processes, customer satisfaction and feedback systems, non-conformance handling, and structured problem-solving methods.
The programme further focuses on developing communication skills, teamwork, analytical thinking, and quality testing and inspection competencies.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for this internship opportunity, applicants must meet all the stated requirements. Candidates must be in their final year of study and demonstrate an excellent academic record. Applicants must be studying towards a National Diploma or Degree in Food Technology, Analytical Chemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related qualification aligned with quality-focused disciplines.
Applicants must not have prior work experience in the field, as this programme is aimed at students seeking first-time workplace exposure. Candidates must be computer literate with working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Strong communication and presentation skills are essential, along with effective time management, the ability to multitask, and the capacity to perform under pressure. Applicants must be able to work effectively within a team and must be South African citizens who are fully eligible to live and work in South Africa.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application that includes a covering or motivational letter, a detailed curriculum vitae, a certified academic record, a certified Grade 12 certificate, and a letter from the tertiary institution confirming current enrolment.
Candidates must also include the evaluation format required by their tertiary institution, along with certified copies of their South African Identity Document. Applications submitted without the required documentation may not be considered.
Employment Equity Commitment
The HEINEKEN Company applies its approved Employment Equity Plan and targets throughout the recruitment process. As an equal opportunity employer, the company actively encourages applications from people with disabilities and remains committed to building an inclusive and diverse working environment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through The HEINEKEN Company careers platform. Interested candidates should ensure that all required documents are uploaded and that the application is completed in full before submission.
To apply for this job please visit careers.theheinekencompany.com.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 23 January 2026.
The HEINEKEN Company is offering a 12-month Quality Internship opportunity for students in Food Technology, Analytical Chemistry, Biotechnology, or Microbiology at its Gqeberha Production Plant in 2026.
