Learner Process Technician

COFCO International is a global agri-business with a clear vision, strong values and a positive culture, focused on being a leader in the global grains, oilseeds and sugar supply chains. We provide the food the world needs in a responsible way. Headquartered is Geneva, Switzerland, we are ambitious, with the right structures and culture to meet the world's increasing and changing needs. With 11,000+ people in 35 countries, our global portfolio includes assets across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. We trade with over 50 nations, while providing farmers unique direct access to the growing Chinese market.

Company: COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd

Vacancy:   Learner Process Technician / Learner Technician (LPT)

Location: Standerton, South Africa

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Department: Production

Job purpose:

The SOM Technician Development Programme (TDP) is a structured initiative designed to provide technical development opportunities and meaningful workplace experience for Learner Technicians. The programme aligns with industry standards and Standerton Oil Mills (SOM) operational requirements through structured learning, mentorship, and continuous assessment. The incumbent will monitor and control plant processes to ensure operations remain within specified parameters and will carry out activities in compliance with the Integrated Management System of Standerton Oil Mills. Learner Technicians will be provided with opportunities to develop essential engineering skills required to succeed in the manufacturing industry, with support from both local and international engineering teams within the COFCO group.

Key Performance Areas:

• Develop an understanding of safe working procedures


• Undertake process optimisation and be prepared to rotate to other sections of the plant when required


• Collect process data and create trends and dashboards for optimisation purposes


• Undertake process fault finding


• Monitor and control plant equipment, utilities, and consumptions within the scope of authority


• Conduct sampling when required to identify opportunities for process improvement


• Collect routine and non-routine field data and diagnose faults affecting plant conditions


• Undertake all necessary training to develop the learner’s skill set


• Participate in periodic assessments


• Provide periodic presentations to a panel of senior staff to ensure learner development is aligned with the programme


• Participate actively in practical fieldwork


• Perform any other related tasks as required from time to time


• Understand energy management principles


• Ensure the plant is operated in accordance with safety standards and COFCO policies

Minimum Criteria:

• Grade 12


• S4/S5 completed (all theoretical subjects) in Chemical or Industrial Engineering


• No bursary obligations


• Proof of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) confirmation from the institution (recent)


• Proof of qualification (Academic record, certified Matric Certificate and ID)

Skills, Knowledge and Experience required:

• 1–2 years’ experience in soya/sunflower crushing plants or edible oil extraction (advantageous)


• Diploma / BTech / BEng Tech in Chemical or Industrial Engineering (advantageous)


• Computer literacy


• Experience with Siemens PCS7 SCADA (advantageous)


• Ability to concentrate for extended periods on repetitive tasks


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills


• Good time management skills


• Ability to learn quickly and think analytically


• Results-driven with focus on safety, quality, and throughput

Competencies

• Following Instructions and Procedures


• Learning and Researching


• Adapting and Responding to Change


• Applying Technical Expertise and Technology


• Writing and Reporting


• Working with People


• Coping with Pressure and Setbacks

Working Conditions

• Plant-based role in an industrial environment


• May be required to work overtime or be on standby

General

Reports to Junior Process Engineer:

CLOSING DATE: 17 JUNE 2026

How to apply

The company is offering a competitive salary with provident and medical benefits.  Exciting incentive opportunities, a rewarding work environment, product and supply chain knowledge and career growth opportunities for the right candidate.

Interested parties should please submit a comprehensive CV and covering letter, outlining why you feel that you are best suited to the position on the COFCO Careers website https://www.cofcointernational.com/careers/ by searching for vacancies in South Africa, clicking on the listed positions available, and following the prompts when clicking “Apply” on the job description, and answering all related questions in full to complete your application.

Only applications submitted direct on the COFCO Careers website will be considered.

If you do not hear from us within 21 days from date of application, please regard your application as unsuccessful. Only short-listed candidates will be moved through the Talent Pipeline and contacted.

The company appoints in line with our employment equity plan and preference may be given to previously disadvantaged individuals.

Privacy Policy

By contacting COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd., you acknowledge and agree that COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd. has a legitimate business purpose to collect and process your personal information (as defined in Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 and any amendments thereto (“POPIA”)) to review your personal information and to comply with its legal obligations. COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd will process your personal information in accordance with POPIA and in accordance with and the purposes described in COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd.’s privacy policy available at https://www.cofcointernational.com/data-privacy-policy/  You hereby confirm that you have read, understood and agree with the terms of COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd.’s privacy policy, and consent to the processing of your personal information.

COFCO International is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please refer to our Candidate Privacy Notice to know how COFCO collects and processes your personal data during your job application.