Food & Beverage Jobs in Johannesburg, South Africa (Now Hiring) — 19 open

Are you ready to launch your career in flavour creation and gain hands-on experience in a global innovation laboratory?

In this internship, you will gain hands-on experience in a global flavours laboratory environment, supporting Flavourists and Designers in flavour compounding, applications, and product development activities. The role involves assisting in projects for both local and global customers, preparing samples, and participating in sensory evaluations across various food and beverage categories. Working closely with experienced mentors, the intern will execute tasks assigned by the IC&D team while developing practical skills, industry knowledge, and an understanding of innovation processes within a leading global organization.

This is a 1-year internship (1 August 2026 – 31 July 2027) within the Innovation, Creation & Design (IC&D) team. This internship will be based on-site at our Johannesburg location. Be part of a collaborative, innovative, and dynamic team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration!

Where You’ll Make a Difference

• Gain hands-on exposure to a professional laboratory environment in a global flavor company
• Support Flavourists and Designers in flavour applications, compounding and sample preparation
• Assist in the development and execution of projects for both local and global customers
• Participate in product tastings, evaluations, and sensory analysis activities
• Prepare and maintain laboratory samples, raw materials, and documentation
• Follow and execute tasks assigned by IC&D team members with accuracy and attention to detail
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support innovation and product development initiatives
• Learn and apply best practices in lab safety, quality, and compliance
• Contribute to ongoing continuous improvement and innovation efforts

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field
• Strong interest in flavors, food applications, and product development
• Basic understanding of laboratory practices and safety standards
• Detail-oriented with good organizational and documentation skills
• Proactive mindset with willingness to learn and take initiative
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic setting
• Curiosity and passion for the food and beverage industry
• Positive attitude and openness to feedback and mentorship

How Would You Stand Out?

• Previous internship or academic project experience in food/flavor applications
• Exposure to sensory evaluation or product testing
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills

Why Choose Us?

• Hands-on experience in a global industry leader
• Structured mentorship from experienced Flavourists and IC&D professionals
• Exposure to diverse food and beverage applications and technologies
• Opportunity to work on real commercial and innovation projects
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment
• A strong foundation for future career opportunities within IFF

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more