RCL Foods is inviting applications for a Production Controller – Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity based in Tzaneen, Limpopo. This opportunity is aimed at students who need practical workplace experience to complete the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component of their qualification.
The position is offered as a learnership/work-integrated learning opportunity, providing students with valuable exposure to a real production environment while supporting their academic requirements.
The successful candidate will join the operations team and report to the Production Manager, assisting with production planning, inventory coordination and production control activities that support efficient manufacturing processes.
The ideal candidate is a current student studying Biotechnology, Food Technology or Operations Management who has completed Grade 12 and requires workplace experience to graduate.
Salary or stipend has not been disclosed in the advertisement. The closing date for applications is 28 July 2026.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
What is the Production Controller – Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity?
This opportunity gives students the chance to complete the practical workplace training required as part of their academic qualification. Rather than focusing only on classroom learning, participants gain first-hand experience in a manufacturing environment.
The role forms part of RCL Foods’ operations function and supports the production team with planning, coordination and production control activities. By working alongside experienced managers, the successful candidate will learn how production schedules, inventory and operational processes are managed.
The overall objective is to help ensure production activities run efficiently while giving students practical industry exposure that prepares them for future employment. Through this role, the candidate contributes to maintaining smooth manufacturing operations and supporting business objectives.
Why could this opportunity be valuable?
This opportunity allows students to build practical skills in production planning, inventory management, manufacturing operations and teamwork. It also develops communication, organisation and problem-solving abilities within a professional workplace.
Completing Work Integrated Learning strengthens a graduate’s CV by demonstrating practical experience alongside academic qualifications. Employers often value candidates who understand workplace processes before entering full-time employment.
The experience gained can open career opportunities across food manufacturing, biotechnology, operations management, production planning, supply chain, logistics and other manufacturing industries where operational efficiency is essential.
What will successful candidates do?
The successful candidate will support the production team in coordinating daily manufacturing activities while learning how production operations are managed in a commercial environment. The role provides practical exposure to planning, scheduling and monitoring production processes.
Working closely with the Production Manager and other departments, the candidate will assist in ensuring production targets are achieved while maintaining quality standards and supporting efficient use of materials and resources.
Responsibilities include:
▪︎ Assist with coordinating daily production activities to support operational targets.
▪︎ Help plan production schedules with managers to improve efficiency.
▪︎ Identify potential production risks and report them promptly.
▪︎ Support inventory management to minimise shortages and excess stock.
▪︎ Assist with processing customer orders and shipment schedules.
▪︎ Help monitor production costs while maintaining quality standards.
▪︎ Review work orders and assist with setting production priorities.
▪︎ Track production progress and recommend schedule adjustments where required.
▪︎ Keep informed about company production objectives and operational plans.
▪︎ Monitor the movement of materials throughout production processes.
▪︎ Assist in planning equipment, labour and material requirements.
▪︎ Help resolve production planning challenges with management.
▪︎ Prepare production documentation and assist with approvals.
▪︎ Work with different departments to ensure work orders are completed on time.
▪︎ Provide regular production updates to managers and customers where required.
Who should apply?
This opportunity is suitable for students who are currently completing qualifications in Biotechnology, Food Technology or Operations Management and require Work Integrated Learning to graduate.
Applicants should have strong organisational skills, good communication abilities and an interest in manufacturing and production environments. They should be willing to learn, work as part of a team and support operational activities under the guidance of experienced professionals.
No previous work experience, driver’s licence or professional certification is specified in the advertisement.
Requirements:
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
Grade 12.
Current student in Biotechnology, Food Technology or Operations Management.
Salary or Stipend
The job advertisement does not disclose the salary or remuneration package.
No additional employee benefits were listed in the advert.
Important Working Conditions
The role is based in Tzaneen, Limpopo, and the successful candidate will report to the Production Manager.
No additional working conditions were specified in the advertisement.
Insider Tip
Insider Tip: When applying for a Work Integrated Learning opportunity, make sure your CV clearly highlights your current qualification, academic achievements and any practical laboratory, production or operations-related projects you have completed. During interviews, be prepared to explain why you want hands-on manufacturing experience and how it will support your long-term career goals.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through RCL Foods’ recruitment process before the closing date.
Applications should be submitted on or before 28 July 2026. Before applying, ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.
The advertisement does not specify any additional documents that must accompany the application.