Pick n Pay: MasterCut Programme 2025 / 2026
Company : Pick n Pay
Location: South Africa
Closing date: Not Specified
Program Overview
Welcome to your first step into the professional world of butchery—where craftsmanship meets career development. This is not just an internship. At Pick n Pay, we believe that learning the art of butchery is a journey of discipline, hands-on skill-building, and career growth. Through our MasterCut Apprentice to Artisan Program, you’ll go beyond simply cutting meat—you’ll become part of a proud tradition of food artisans who serve customers with confidence, precision, and pride.
Our program is specifically designed for unemployed youth who are eager to learn, motivated to work with their hands, and excited about developing a skill that leads to a secure and fulfilling career. Through structured learning, real-world experience, and support from our experienced team, you will be equipped to become more than a butcher—you’ll become a trusted food professional.
What Makes This Program Unique?
The MasterCut Apprentice to Artisan Program provides you with:
-
A career pathway in one of South Africa’s leading retailers
-
Practical in-store training with experienced butchers and mentors
-
Step-by-step certification through Pick n Pay’s internal development system
-
Opportunities for future employment and advancement in a growing industry
Whether you’re passionate about food, looking for stable employment, or ready to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on, this program sets you on the path to success.
What You’ll Gain
As a participant in the MasterCut program, you can expect to:
-
Work for a respected South African retail brand with a national presence
-
Build real-world experience in a professional butchery environment
-
Receive Pick n Pay certifications as you advance through the program
-
Gain practical expertise and technical skills in butchery, hygiene, food safety, and customer service
-
Potentially secure full-time employment with Pick n Pay after successful completion
-
Join a supportive team that values discipline, learning, and customer care
What You Will Learn & Do
Throughout the program, you’ll be immersed in every aspect of the butchery trade, with hands-on responsibilities that prepare you for life as a meat expert.
1. Meat Mastery
-
Learn how to cut, trim, portion, debone, and process various meats with precision and skill
-
Prepare value-added products such as cold cuts, sausages, and burger patties
-
Use professional tools and equipment, including band saws, grinders, and slicers
-
Understand different meat grades, cuts, and quality standards
2. Packaging & Product Display
-
Weigh and wrap meat for display and customer sales
-
Present products neatly and attractively in the butchery display
-
Maintain rotation using the FIFO (First In, First Out) method
-
Assist in preparing meat packs and specials for promotion
3. Hygiene, Safety & Compliance
-
Learn the strict hygiene and food safety protocols used in butchery
-
Properly clean and sanitize workstations, tools, and equipment
-
Wear the correct protective clothing and understand its importance
-
Comply with all food safety regulations and health inspection requirements
4. Butchery Operations & Stock Flow
-
Help with receiving and storing meat deliveries
-
Organize cold storage and understand the importance of temperature control
-
Monitor stock levels and assist with stock rotation
-
Report discrepancies and assist in basic stock counting
5. Customer Engagement
-
Assist customers at the meat counter, answering product-related questions
-
Offer advice on meat cuts, cooking methods, and portion sizes
-
Learn how to take custom orders and process special requests
-
Develop communication and selling skills to enhance customer satisfaction
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for unemployed youth who are ready to learn, work hard, and grow within the butchery profession. If you are physically fit, enjoy hands-on work, and want to build a career in the food retail industry, this program is designed for you.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for this opportunity, candidates must:
-
Be South African citizens
-
Be between the ages of 18 and 34
-
Be currently unemployed
-
Have at least a Grade 10 qualification (Grade 12 is advantageous)
-
Be physically capable of standing for extended periods and handling meat products
-
Have no criminal record (screening will be conducted)
-
Be willing to work in cold environments (butchery stores and fridges)
-
Be committed to completing the full duration of the program
-
Be passionate about food, learning, and working in a customer-focused environment
Ideal Candidate Qualities
We are looking for individuals who are:
-
Eager to learn and committed to developing new skills
-
Hands-on and comfortable with tools and food prep
-
Reliable and punctual, with a strong work ethic
-
Team players who communicate well and follow instructions
-
Detail-oriented, especially when it comes to hygiene and quality
-
Cool under pressure—able to perform in fast-paced environments, including cold temperatures
-
Customer-focused, with a helpful and friendly attitude
How to Apply
If you meet the above criteria and are excited to join one of South Africa’s leading retail teams, submit your application including:
-
A copy of your South African ID
-
A copy of your highest academic qualification
-
A brief CV or motivational letter explaining why you want to become a butchery artisan
Applications can be submitted at:
-
Your nearest Pick n Pay store
-
Or through our online career portal
APPLY HERE
Find More Food Hiring Retailers!!
APPLY HERE