Packaging/Bottling Manager

Cape Town, South Africa
Packaging/Bottling Manager
Company
RPO Recruitment
Location
Cape Town
Via
RPO Recruitment
Job description
Job Title: Packaging/Bottling Manager

Location: Paarl, Western Cape

A leading South African brand and industry leader in the production of world-class wines and other spirits is looking for an experienced Packaging/Bottling Manager with strong experience in bottling/labelling & packaging processes to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated manager to drive continuous improvement on production lines, standards, and efficiencies by managing the comprehensive bottling and packaging processes. If you have experience in packaging management and a passion for excellence in production, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:
• Develop and implement strategic processes, policies and procedures for the packaging department.
• Set-up & Maintain Packaging comprehensive cost centre, Capex & Extra-ordinary budget.
• Approval / Reject SAP requisitions.
• Overall management of variances in relevant business structures (production orders).
• Ensure weekly production reports are completed and reported to GM.
• Maintain and update packaging BSC and provide information to Executive: Operations.
• Manage the comprehensive bottling and packaging processes.
• Continually liaise with Team leaders and QC Manager.
• Identify deviations and or problems and make adjustments when necessary.
• Make recommendations in committee meetings (such as technical, quality control and external bottling).
• Identify and liaise with prospective bottling suppliers.
• Identify machinery needs and conduct research analysis.
• Monitor product quality during production process.
• Ensure departments comply fully with governance/audit/risk standards.
• Ensure continuous improvement on production lines, standards and efficiencies.
• Ensure effective handling of projects and insourcing of products.
• Ensure limited downtime on production lines.
• Continuous improvement in change overtime and line speed.
• Continuous improvement in production efficiencies.
• Effective scheduling of production lines.
• Regular routine communication via management structure and communication channels.
• Create and ensure a positive organisational culture climate and conduct regular one-on-one sessions, motivate, develop and coach employees.
• General HR function to employees (approval of leave etc.).
• Oversees health & safety of departments.
• Accountable for SLA’s and management of all contract packers both on and off site.
• Analyse and interpret financial information.
• Accountable for total Packaging department OPEX and CAPEX.

Requirements:
• Relevant tertiary qualification.
• At least 7-10 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Excellent understanding of Lean manufacturing.
• At least 5 years’ experience of people management and performance management systems.
• Solid understanding of and 7 – 10 years’ experience in bottling/labelling & packaging processes.
• Excellent communication skills (English & Afrikaans).
• Excellent planning/organising and control/co-ordinating skills.
• Production process fault finding skills.

Benefits:
• Competitive salary.
• Medical Insurance and Retirement Annuity Benefits.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Training and resources to stay updated on industry trends and best practices.

Contact RPO Recruitment for your next career opportunity.

Apply for this role today, contact Justin Peach at RPO Recruitment or on LinkedIn.

You can also visit the RPO Recruitment website: rporecruitment.co.za or email us your CV: manufacturing@rpo-recruit.za.com.

We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Packing Staff Jobs in South Africa

Q
What is the minimum hourly wage for packing staff in South Africa in 2026?
The National Minimum Wage for packing staff, as set by the Department of Employment and Labour, is R32.50 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This applies to a standard 45-hour workweek, equating to a minimum monthly earnings of R6,350 before deductions for full-time workers. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the normal rate for hours exceeding 45 per week.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
What is the typical monthly salary range for entry-level packing staff jobs in South Africa in 2026?
Entry-level packing staff earn between R7,500 and R9,500 per month in 2026, according to sectoral determinations under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Experienced packers in logistics can reach R12,000 monthly with shift allowances. These figures exclude bonuses, which average R500 quarterly.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour
Q
Do foreigners need a work visa for packing staff jobs in South Africa, and what are the costs?
Foreigners require a General Work Visa for non-critical skills roles like packing staff, sponsored by a South African employer. The application fee is R1,520 for the main applicant plus R760 per dependant, valid for up to 5 years from 1 January 2026. Processing takes 8-10 weeks at a Department of Home Affairs office.
Source: Department of Home Affairs
Q
What qualifications or experience are needed for packing staff jobs in South Africa?
No formal qualifications are required, but Grade 10 literacy and numeracy are essential for packing staff roles per National Qualifications Framework Level 1. Employers prefer 6 months warehouse experience; new entrants qualify via free SETA learnerships lasting 12 months. Matriculants gain priority in recruitment.
Source: Department of Employment and Labour