Applications Open for the Illovo Sugar In-Service Trainee Programme 2026
Applications Open for the Illovo Sugar In-Service Trainee Programme 2026. Illovo Sugar South Africa is recruiting In-Service Trainees for a 12-month programme at its Merebank and Sezela sites. The company is inviting suitably qualified students to apply for a 12-month in-service training programme within its Bio-Based Solutions operations located at Merebank and Sezela in KwaZulu-Natal.University of Technology students in Analytical Chemistry or Biochemistry can apply for the programme.
About the Programme
This opportunity is aimed at students studying Analytical Chemistry or Biochemistry who require practical industry experience as part of their academic qualifications. The programme offers valuable exposure within one of Africa’s leading sugar producers and provides participants with an opportunity to develop technical skills in a professional manufacturing and laboratory environment. The 12-month programme is specifically designed for students who need workplace experience to complete the practical requirements of their qualifications.
The Opportunity Is Available In the Following Fields:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Successful candidates will be placed at either the Merebank or Sezela operations, where they will gain hands-on experience while working alongside experienced professionals in laboratory and technical environments.
Interns
This practical exposure allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained during their studies while developing valuable industry skills.
Who Should Apply?
- Must be enrolled at a University of Technology.
- Must have completed their S4 (second year) of study.
- Must have received official approval for P1/P2 practical training from their institution.
- Must be studying Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Preference may be given to candidates from communities surrounding Illovo South Africa operations.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email to: Careers@illovo.co.za
The email subject line must follow the required format:
IN-SERVICE TRAINEE 2026 – Biochemistry
or
IN-SERVICE TRAINEE 2026 – Analytical Chemistry
Applicants should make sure that the field stated in the subject line corresponds with the field being applied for
Important Information
- Only South African citizens will be considered.
- Preference may be given to candidates from communities surrounding Illovo operations.
- Appointments will be made in accordance with the company’s Employment Equity Plan.
- Successful candidates may be required to undergo security checks, verification processes, criminal record checks, and qualification verification.
- If applicants do not receive feedback within four weeks after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
Closing Date: Friday 25th September 2026
