The Machine Operator vacancy at Unilever is open in Boksburg, Gauteng. The full-time position falls within the Supply Chain function. Applications close on 16 October 2026.
Unilever is seeking candidates who can operate production equipment safely and efficiently. The role also requires strong attention to quality, safety and production standards.
Applicants need Matric or N3 with passed Maths and Science. Candidates must also demonstrate strong literacy and numerical skills.
Unilever Machine Operator Job 2026
The Machine Operator reports to the Shift Coordinator. The successful candidate will work at Unilever’s Boksburg site.
The position requires full-time attendance on site. Therefore, applicants must be prepared to work from the Boksburg facility.
The main purpose of the role involves operating production equipment safely. The operator must also help meet production plans and quality requirements.
The role includes working with different machines across the factory. This helps improve production flexibility and factory resilience.
RELATED: Pragma Global Project Administration Assistant 2026: 12-Month YES Programme, Closes 20 October
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will handle several production and equipment-related duties.
These include:
- Operating production machinery safely and efficiently.
- Maintaining machinery according to prescribed standards.
- Keeping equipment clean and ready for production.
- Adjusting and setting equipment correctly.
- Performing product and size changeovers.
- Following start-up and shutdown procedures.
- Conducting equipment inspections.
- Recording equipment problems and deviations.
- Working with maintenance and quality teams.
- Monitoring products against quality standards.
- Reporting product and packaging defects.
- Following workplace health and safety procedures.
- Complying with waste management requirements.
- Recording production losses and shift information.
- Completing effective shift handovers.
- Identifying and addressing production problems.
- Rejecting products that do not meet required standards.
Requirements for the Unilever Machine Operator Vacancy
Applicants must meet the minimum educational requirement before applying.
Education Requirements
Unilever requires:
- Matric; or
- N3 with passed Maths and Science; or
- An equivalent qualification.
The vacancy also highlights several important workplace skills.
Candidates should have strong literacy and numerical abilities. They should also understand basic mechanical principles.
Basic awareness of factory automation is also required. Knowledge of UMS methodologies will be useful.
In addition, candidates should work well under pressure. They must also adapt when production priorities change.
Skills Needed for the Machine Operator Job
This position requires more than the ability to operate machinery. The successful candidate must contribute to safe and consistent production.
Unilever expects Machine Operators to identify problems quickly. They must also escalate issues when additional technical support is needed.
Teamwork is another important part of the role. Operators work alongside maintenance and quality control teams.
The position also requires good communication skills. Operators must accurately record production events during each shift.
Physical ability is also important for this vacancy. The role can require movement between different workstations.
Operators may need to climb steps and move quickly around production areas. Hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity are also required.
Work Environment and Location
The Unilever Machine Operator position is based in Boksburg, Gauteng.
This is a site-based position. Unilever states that the successful candidate must attend the workplace 100% of the time.
Candidates should therefore consider their ability to travel to Boksburg. The role also requires flexibility around shift patterns.
Unilever notes that shift flexibility may be necessary. This can include factory shutdowns and training requirements.
ALSO SEE: NBCPSS Designated Agent Jobs 2026: Gqeberha & Bloemfontein, Closes 16 October
How to Apply for the Unilever Machine Operator Job 2026
Applicants who meet the requirements can apply through Unilever’s official careers website.
The vacancy has the following details:
- Company: Unilever
- Position: Machine Operator
- Job ID: R-1188161
- Location: Boksburg, Gauteng
- Department: Supply Chain
- Job Type: Full time
- Minimum qualification: Matric or N3 with Maths and Science
- Closing date: 16 October 2026
- Work arrangement: 100% site-based
Applicants should submit their applications before the closing date. Candidates should also ensure that their information is accurate and up to date.
Unilever states that it is an equal opportunities employer. The company also considers South African Employment Equity and BBBEE legislation during recruitment.
Applicants should also be cautious of recruitment scams. Unilever warns that it will never request money or credit card details during recruitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matric required for the Unilever Machine Operator job?
Yes. Unilever lists Matric as a required qualification. Alternatively, applicants can have N3 with passed Maths and Science or an equivalent qualification.
What does a Machine Operator do at Unilever?
The role involves operating production equipment and maintaining quality standards. Operators also conduct inspections and support safe factory operations. They work with maintenance and quality teams to address equipment and production issues.
Where can I apply for the Unilever Machine Operator job?
Candidates should apply through Unilever’s official careers platform. The vacancy is listed under Unilever’s South African job opportunities.
