PepsiCo – Millwright Apprentice

Millwright apprenticeships are a practical route for applicants who enjoy working with mechanical equipment, electrical systems, industrial automation and technical fault-finding. The PepsiCo Millwright Apprentice opportunity in Upington combines classroom instruction with hands-on workplace training and is aimed at candidates with Matric and an N3 qualification covering mechanical and electrical engineering studies.

At a glance

What this opportunity is

The PepsiCo Millwright Apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with related classroom instruction. Apprentices will learn the practical and theoretical aspects of the millwright trade and will be required to complete a trade test at an accredited trade centre at the end of their training.

The programme covers mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer-based systems used in industrial automation and robotics. The official listing also refers to exposure to computer systems that may include artificial intelligence applications within modern industrial equipment.

The apprenticeship includes hands-on training, classroom learning, assessments, assignments, practical application, mentorship and experience in troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining automated industrial systems.

Who this opportunity may suit

This opportunity may suit an applicant who has completed Matric and an N3 qualification in mechanical and electrical engineering studies and wants to qualify in the millwright trade.

It may also suit someone who enjoys understanding how machines work, diagnosing technical faults and working with a combination of mechanical components, electrical circuits and automated control systems.

Applicants with technical school experience, practical workshop training, mechanical projects, electrical projects, PLC exposure, welding experience or industrial equipment knowledge should make those details clear on their CV.

What you’ll do / learn

Apprenticeship training and assessments

• Complete learner-readiness or pre-learning assessments when required.
• Participate in the Recognition of Prior Learning assessment process where applicable.
• Complete any required gap training.
• Complete the final assessment and millwright trade test.
• Attend all training classes according to the official schedule.
• Submit assignments within the required timeframes.
• Complete classroom training, written submissions and practical workplace activities.
• Participate in mentorship and coaching sessions.
• Communicate learning concerns promptly to the course facilitator and HR personnel.
• Sign a training commitment letter with the line manager where required.

Installation and maintenance

• Assist with the installation of mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Learn how industrial machinery and automated systems are assembled and installed.
• Perform routine maintenance on mechatronic and automated systems under supervision.
• Learn how preventative maintenance supports equipment reliability and production uptime.
• Assist with inspecting mechanical, electrical and control-system components.

Troubleshooting and repairs

• Learn how to diagnose faults in mechanical systems.
• Assist with diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
• Develop fault-finding skills for industrial control systems.
• Work with programmable logic controllers, also known as PLCs.
• Gain exposure to human-machine interfaces, also known as HMIs.
• Learn how sensors and actuators are used in automated equipment.
• Assist with maintaining and repairing automated and robotic systems.

Fabrication and assembly

• Learn how to operate machine-shop tools safely.
• Produce or assist with producing precision parts.
• Assist with fitting and assembling mechanical components.
• Learn welding and component-joining techniques where required.
• Follow drawings, measurements and technical instructions during fabrication work.

Documentation and safety

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance and repair work performed.
• Complete training documents, assignments and practical records.
• Follow workplace safety procedures and compliance standards.
• Use tools, machinery and protective equipment correctly.
• Maintain good attendance and take responsibility for programme requirements.

Note: Applicants should confirm the apprenticeship duration, stipend or salary, shift arrangements, training provider, trade-test requirements and employment conditions directly with PepsiCo during the recruitment process.

Eligibility requirements

Applicant requirements

• Matric / Grade 12 certificate or an equivalent qualification.
• N3 qualification in mechanical and electrical engineering studies.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be medically fit to work in an industrial environment.
• Must be physically able to lift approximately 12–25 kg.
• Must be willing to attend classroom and practical training.
• Must be willing to complete assignments, assessments and the trade test.
• A mechanical aptitude test may form part of the recruitment or assessment process.

Technical learning areas

• Mechanical systems and industrial machinery.
• Electrical systems and fault-finding.
• Electronic and automated control systems.
• Programmable logic controllers.
• Human-machine interfaces.
• Sensors and actuators.
• Industrial automation and robotics.
• Machine-shop tools and precision components.
• Welding, fabrication and component assembly.

Skills and personal attributes

• Mechanical and technical aptitude.
• Interest in electrical and automated systems.
• Problem-solving and fault-finding ability.
• Ability to follow technical instructions carefully.
• Good attendance and commitment to completing the programme.
• Willingness to learn in both classroom and workplace environments.
• Safety awareness and responsible work habits.
• Ability to work with tools, machinery and computer-based control systems.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to complete written assignments and practical assessments.

What this role really means

A millwright works across both mechanical and electrical systems. Unlike a trade that focuses mainly on one area, millwrights learn how to install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair machinery that combines mechanical components, electrical equipment and automated controls.

In a modern production environment, this may include motors, gearboxes, pumps, conveyors, sensors, electrical panels, PLCs, HMIs and robotic or automated equipment. Apprentices must therefore be willing to learn both practical workshop skills and technical theory.

The programme requires discipline. Apprentices must attend training, complete assignments, participate in practical work and prepare for the final trade test. Missing classes or neglecting training responsibilities without a serious reason could affect progress through the programme.

On your CV, place your Matric, N3 subjects, mechanical and electrical modules, practical training and technical projects near the top. Clearly mention any experience with tools, machines, electrical circuits, PLCs, welding, fabrication or workshop safety.

Application checklist

Prepare your documents before applying so that your application is complete and professional.

• Updated CV.
• Certified copy of your South African ID, where applicable.
• Certified copy of your Matric / Grade 12 certificate.
• N3 certificate showing your mechanical and electrical engineering studies.
• Academic statement of results or transcript, where available.
• Details of workshop, mechanical, electrical or technical training.
• Details of practical projects involving machines, circuits, PLCs, welding or fabrication.
• Clear contact details, including your cellphone number and email address.
• Any supporting documents requested on the PepsiCo careers portal.

Need help with CVs, certified copies, and application tips? Use our Resources & Guides Hub.

Important note for applicants

Medical fitness is compulsory because the apprenticeship involves practical work in an industrial environment. Applicants may be required to complete a medical assessment before placement.

A mechanical aptitude assessment may also be required. Applicants should prepare by reviewing basic mechanical principles, measurements, tools, electrical concepts and problem-solving methods covered in their technical studies.

The official listing does not state a closing date. Applicants should apply as soon as possible because the vacancy may be removed once enough suitable applications have been received.

About the sponsor

PepsiCo is a global food and beverage company with operations across snacks, cereals, beverages and related consumer products. Its South African operations include manufacturing, supply chain, distribution, sales and business support functions. You can view more information on the PepsiCo Website

Quick tips for applicants

• Make your Matric and N3 qualifications easy to find on your CV.
• Clearly list both your mechanical and electrical engineering subjects.
• Mention any workshop, machine-shop, welding or fabrication experience.
• Include electrical projects, circuit work or fault-finding experience.
• Mention any PLC, HMI, sensor, actuator or automation exposure.
• Show that you understand the importance of safety and attendance.
• Use examples that demonstrate technical problem-solving and teamwork.
• Check that your cellphone number and email address are correct.
• Apply promptly because no closing date is displayed.

Common mistakes that get applicants rejected

• Submitting a CV that does not clearly show Matric and N3.
• Not showing both mechanical and electrical engineering studies.
• Leaving out practical workshop or technical experience.
• Not mentioning relevant projects, tools or machinery exposure.
• Claiming PLC, electrical or welding experience that cannot be supported.
• Using a generic CV that does not show interest in the millwright trade.
• Uploading unclear or incomplete qualification documents.
• Not being prepared for the medical or mechanical aptitude assessments.
• Using outdated or incorrect contact details.
• Waiting too long to apply when no closing date is stated.

Scam warning (important)

Applicants should only apply through the official PepsiCo careers platform. PepsiCo states that official recruitment communication will come through verified company channels. Do not pay anyone for this apprenticeship, an interview, placement, training, a trade test or application assistance.

How this opportunity was verified

This opportunity was verified from the official PepsiCo careers listing for Millwright Apprentice, job ID 458885. The listing confirmed the employer, job title, Upington location, Supply Chain business area, apprenticeship purpose, learner assessments, training requirements, learning areas, qualifications, physical requirements, medical fitness requirement and official application route.

For more information about how our posts are verified, please visit our How we verify listings page.

How to apply

1. Open the official PepsiCo application link below.
2. Read the full Millwright Apprentice vacancy carefully.
3. Click the Apply Now option on the official vacancy page.
4. Create or log in to your PepsiCo careers profile, if required.
5. Complete all required application fields.
6. Upload your CV and requested supporting documents.
7. Check that your Matric, N3 and technical details are accurate.
8. Submit your application as soon as possible.
9. Keep proof of submission or any confirmation received from the portal.

Application Closing Date

Not stated on the official listing. Applicants should apply as soon as possible.

Application Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no response is received within 2 weeks, consider your application unsuccessful. Employment equity candidates are welcome to apply.