Dairy Group SA Launches 12-Month YES Learnership: Your Path into Food Manufacturing

Dairy Group SA Launches 12-Month YES Learnership: Your Path into Food Manufacturing

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Dairy Group SA has announced a high-impact YES Programme Learnership, offering job seekers a 12-month fixed-term contract within the food production sector. Based in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), this role is specifically designed for those who want to move beyond “observation” and gain gritty, hands-on experience on a manufacturing floor.

This is a fast-paced environment where the focus is on cheese production, quality control, and industrial hygiene.

Urgent: The Closing Date is TODAY

According to the latest vacancy listings, the closing date for this intake is April 13, 2026. Because this is a high-urgency window, candidates are encouraged to submit via the SAYouth portal immediately.

Quick Fact Sheet

  • Duration: 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
  • Stipend: R5,000 per month (Reported)
  • Location: Port Elizabeth (Eastern Cape)
  • Reference Number: 2036942 (SAYouth)

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What the Role Entails: Inside the Factory

This is not a desk job. Successful learners will be integrated into the daily operations of a cheese manufacturing facility. Key responsibilities include:

  • Production Support: Packing, boxing, and cutting cheese (diced, grated, or blocks).
  • Quality & Science: Taking half-hourly samples for pH testing and reporting quality inconsistencies.
  • Heavy Lifting: Moving and draining cheese-filled trolleys and supporting the Cooker Stretcher area.
  • Sanitation: Rigorous cleaning of equipment and floors to maintain strict food safety standards.
  • Efficiency: Working on the mozzarella line to actively reduce waste.

Minimum Requirements

Dairy Group SA is looking for candidates who already have a basic understanding of the industrial environment. You will need:

  • Education: Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
  • Experience: At least 1 year of experience in a similar production or factory role.
  • Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and factory health and safety protocols.
  • Soft Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, punctuality, and the ability to work in a high-pressure team.

How to Apply

To ensure your application reaches the right desk, you must follow the official digital route:

  1. SAYouth Portal: This vacancy is hosted on the SAYouth.mobi network. You must be a registered member to apply.
  2. Search Reference: Use the reference number 2036942 to find the specific Dairy Group listing.
  3. Update Your CV: Ensure your experience in food handling, packing, or cleaning is highlighted at the top of your profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the YES Programme? A: The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a business-led initiative that creates 12-month work experiences for unemployed youth to bridge the gap between “no experience” and “work-ready.”

Q: Does this learnership guarantee a permanent job? A: No. While the contract is for 12 months, the skills and “Practical Credibility” gained in a food manufacturing setting are highly sought after by other dairy and FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) companies.

Q: What is GMP knowledge? A: GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practices. It refers to the system for ensuring that products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards. In food manufacturing, this heavily involves hygiene and contamination prevention.

Q: Can I apply if I don’t live in Port Elizabeth? A: Yes, but the role is site-specific. You would be responsible for your own transport and accommodation in the area.

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