The Westfalia Fruit Graduate Programme 2026 offers a rare opportunity for young South African graduates to enter a globally respected agri-processing business while gaining meaningful, structured workplace experience. This two-year accelerated graduate programme is designed to develop future professionals through hands-on exposure, mentoring, and real-world responsibility across Westfalia Fruit’s diverse operations.
As a multinational leader in fresh fruit production and value-added food products, Westfalia Fruit operates across the full agricultural value chain. From growing and sourcing to packing, processing, and global distribution, the company provides graduates with exposure to an environment that is both technically advanced and internationally connected.
About Westfalia Fruit
Westfalia Fruit is one of the world’s leading suppliers of fresh avocados and related produce, serving global retail and wholesale markets throughout the year. With the largest avocado-growing footprint worldwide, the company is widely recognised as a leader in agricultural innovation, food quality, and sustainable farming practices.
The organisation operates across multiple regions, including Southern Africa, Europe, the United Kingdom, North America, and Latin America. In South Africa, graduate placements are offered in Tzaneen, Johannesburg, and Howick, providing exposure to both agricultural and corporate operations.
Purpose of the Graduate Programme
The Westfalia Fruit Accelerated Graduate Programme is aimed at young, motivated, and ambitious graduates who are eager to build long-term careers within the agricultural, engineering, and commercial sectors.
The programme focuses on developing well-rounded professionals by combining structured learning, rotational workplace exposure, and practical application of academic knowledge. Graduates are supported through mentorship, skills development initiatives, and ongoing performance feedback, ensuring steady professional growth.
What Graduates Will Do
Participants in the graduate programme are actively involved in daily operations and are not limited to observation roles.
Graduates will:
- Participate in a structured graduate development programme with rotational exposure
- Apply academic knowledge to real-world business operations
- Support operational, technical, or administrative activities within their discipline
- Assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and internal stakeholders
- Participate in training, mentoring, and development interventions
- Prepare progress reports and project updates when required
This approach ensures that graduates gain practical experience while developing problem-solving, communication, and professional workplace skills.
Fields of Study and Placement Locations
Graduates must hold a relevant BSc, BEng, BEng-Tech, BCom, BTech, or equivalent degree in one of the following disciplines or closely related fields:
Agricultural and Science Disciplines
- Agricultural Engineering – Tzaneen
- Agricultural Science – Tzaneen
- Horticulture – Tzaneen
- Plant Pathology – Tzaneen
- Plant Breeding – Tzaneen
- Biotechnology / Food Science – Tzaneen and Howick
Engineering Disciplines
- Electrical Engineering – Tzaneen
- Mechanical Engineering – Tzaneen
- Industrial Engineering – Tzaneen and Johannesburg
Business, Safety, and Support Disciplines
- Supply Chain and Logistics – Tzaneen
- Finance – Tzaneen
- Communications – Tzaneen
- Health and Safety – Tzaneen, Johannesburg, and Howick
- Social Work – Tzaneen
Placements are aligned with operational needs and allow graduates to gain industry-specific exposure relevant to their qualifications.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed a relevant qualification in one of the listed disciplines
- Be 35 years old or younger
Behavioural and Professional Competencies
Westfalia Fruit looks for graduates who demonstrate strong professional values and growth potential.
Successful candidates typically show:
- A strong willingness to learn and openness to feedback
- Self-motivation and a proactive attitude
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and within a team
- Professionalism, integrity, and accountability
- Adaptability in a fast-paced working environment
- Strong time management and organisational skills
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Initiative, resilience, and a solid work ethic
These qualities are essential for long-term success within the programme and the organisation.
Contract, Equity, and Workplace Inclusion
Successful candidates will be offered a two-year fixed-term contract, commencing on 1 April 2026. The programme is structured to provide stable employment while supporting skills development and professional growth.
Westfalia Fruit is an employment equity employer and actively encourages applications from people with disabilities. Selection is guided by the company’s transformation and inclusion objectives.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents via email:
- Comprehensive CV
- Application or motivational letter
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications and academic transcript
To apply for this job email your details to learnerships@westfaliafruit.co.za
The discipline being applied for must be clearly stated in the email subject line. Applications are submitted directly to Westfalia Fruit’s graduate recruitment email address, and all documents must be complete and readable to be considered.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 05 February 2026.
Conclusion
The Westfalia Fruit Graduate Programme 2026 offers more than just workplace exposure. It provides graduates with structured development, industry-relevant experience, and the opportunity to build sustainable careers within a globally recognised agri-business. For graduates seeking practical learning, professional growth, and long-term career potential, this programme presents a strong and credible pathway into the agricultural and food production sector.
