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 in 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.

COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd

Learner Process Technician / Learner Technician (LPT)

Standerton, South Africa

Fixed Term (24 months)

Production

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.

• 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

• 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 )

• 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

• 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

• Plant‑based role in an industrial environment
• May be required to work overtime or be on standby

Junior Process Engineer

17 June 2026

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