Finding a first job can feel impossible, but the AVI Limited YES4Youth Work Experience Programme 2026 is now open, giving you a chance to start a career in food production right away.
What the opportunity is
This is a 12‑month, paid work‑experience placement with I&J (Irvin & Johnson), a leading seafood company that is part of AVI Limited. The programme runs in Cape Town and provides hands‑on exposure to the entire seafood production chain – from processing and packaging to quality control.
Who can apply
- Education: Minimum Grade 10 (Standard 8) completed.
- Age: 18 to 34 years.
- Status: South African citizen who is currently unemployed.
- Other conditions: You must not have taken part in a YES4Youth programme before and must not be studying full‑time.
All successful applicants will need to pass a background check and a medical exam to confirm they are fit for a manufacturing environment.
What you will gain
During the year you will learn:
- Workplace discipline and shift‑based operations.
- Safety and hygiene standards required in food production.
- Practical skills in processing, packaging and quality control.
- Soft skills such as teamwork, time‑management and professional communication.
These experiences are valued by employers and can lead to permanent entry‑level roles in AVI Limited or other FMCG companies.
How to apply
- Save the WhatsApp number 060 011 9717 on your phone.
- Send the word “HI” to that number.
- Follow the automated prompts and upload clear, legible copies of your ID, proof of education and any other requested documents.
- If you prefer an online application, click here and fill in the short form before the closing date.
The deadline to submit an application is 30 April 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Take clear, well‑lit photos of your documents – blurry images are often rejected.
- When you are invited for an interview, stress your willingness to work shifts and your commitment to safety.
- Show that you are eager to learn the technical side of seafood manufacturing and that you work well in a team.
- If you run into technical problems, call the Learning & Development team:
- Woodstock Office: 021 440 7800 (ask for Magdalene Idas or Franklin Cieverts)
- Cape Town Waterfront Office: 021 402 9700 (ask for Shannon Allman)
- Paarden Eiland Office: 021 440 7800 (ask for Sheila Mayana)
Next steps
This programme could be your first step into a stable career. Save the contact details, prepare your documents, and apply before 30 April 2026. Take the initiative now – the experience you gain will open doors in the food production sector and beyond.