South African Breweries (SAB) has officially opened applications for its Production In-Service Trainee Programme 2026, a valuable opportunity for final-year National Diploma students who must complete experiential training as part of their academic curriculum. South African Breweries (SAB) Production In-Service Trainee Programme 2026 , This programme is based in Alberton, South Africa, and offers a structured 12-month fixed-term contract at Alrode Maltings, one of SAB’s key production sites.
If you are passionate about manufacturing, quality systems, and production processes in a world-class beverage company, this traineeship offers a strong pathway to gain real industry exposure while completing your qualification.
Programme Overview
- Programme Name: Production In-Service Trainee Programme 2026
- Company: South African Breweries (SAB) – part of AB InBev
- Location: Alberton (VOPS Alrode / Alrode Maltings), South Africa
- Contract Type: Full-Time, 12-month fixed term
- Job Requisition ID: 30089476
- Closing Date: 16 February 2026
About South African Breweries (SAB)
South African Breweries (SAB) is one of the most recognized beverage producers in South Africa, with a history dating back to 1895. As part of AB InBev, SAB operates within one of the world’s largest brewing groups and is known for iconic brands such as Castle Lager and Carling Black Label. Beyond beverage production, SAB is respected for its commitment to skills development through graduate programmes, internships, learnerships, and workplace-based training opportunities that empower young professionals across the country.
Role Purpose
The key purpose of the Production In-Service Trainee role is to support the production process and contribute to the overall value chain by assisting with quality and operational activities. This traineeship is designed specifically for students who must complete workplace learning in order to finalize their National Diploma, Successful candidates will undergo both:
- On-the-job learning (practical workplace exposure), and
- Off-the-job learning (training aligned with academic requirements)
This combination ensures that trainees build the technical and professional competencies needed in a modern production environment.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
As a Production In-Service Trainee at SAB, you will be expected to contribute actively in daily operations while developing your technical skills. Your responsibilities will include:
- Maintaining equipment and ensuring a clean, safe, and compliant workplace
- Assisting with production-related processes that support the value chain
- Analysing samples and supporting quality monitoring tasks
- Communicating test results and findings timeously
- Reporting any non-conformances and supporting corrective actions
- Contributing to continuous quality improvement initiatives
- Working effectively in teams within a structured production environment
- Enhancing and developing skills by completing tertiary training requirements
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the SAB Production In-Service Trainee Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Must be a final-year student completing a National Diploma in one of the following fields:
- Logistics
- Food Technology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Ability to utilize computer programmes extensively
- Strong analytical ability
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
Key Attributes and Competencies
SAB is looking for trainees who can work accurately, learn quickly, and handle production demands with professionalism. Ideal candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Precision and accuracy
- Excellent attention to detail
- Numeracy and confidence in working with data
- Mental alertness and sound judgment
Additional Information
- Band: XII
- Workplace: VOPS Alrode / Alrode Maltings
- Employment Equity: SAB is an equal opportunity employer and all appointments will be made in line with the company’s employment equity plan and talent requirements.
- Shortlisting Notice: Management reserves the right to use additional relevant criteria for shortlisting beyond the minimum requirements listed in the advert.
Why Join SAB?
SAB’s culture is built on ambition, innovation, and growth. The company believes in “dreaming big” and creating opportunities where young talent can grow into future leaders. As a trainee, you will gain:
- Practical experience in a high-performance production environment
- Exposure to world-class manufacturing standards
- Hands-on learning aligned with your National Diploma requirements
- Professional development in teamwork, reporting, and quality systems
- A strong foundation for future career opportunities in the FMCG and manufacturing sector
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through SAB/AB InBev official career platforms using the vacancy title: Production In-Service Trainee – VOPS Alrode (Alrode Maltings), Closing Date: 16 February 2026, Make sure your application includes:
- An updated CV
- Proof of enrolment / academic letter
- Your latest academic transcript
- Any supporting documents requested in the online portal
Applicants are advised to submit their applications early, as late applications may not be considered, The SAB Production In-Service Trainee Programme 2026 is a highly valuable opportunity for final-year diploma students seeking workplace exposure in one of South Africa’s most respected manufacturing companies. If you are detail-oriented, eager to learn, and ready to gain real production experience while completing your qualification, this programme is an excellent step toward building a strong professional future. Apply before the closing date and take your first step into a world-class production environment.
