Pick n Pay, one of South Africa’s most trusted and established retail chains, continues to invest in skills development through its Mastercut Artisan Programme. This pioneering initiative is designed to nurture the next generation of skilled butchers by providing in-depth, hands-on training and employment opportunities. For aspiring artisans passionate about the meat industry, the Pick n Pay Mastercut Programme offers a rare chance to gain both technical skills and industry experience in one of the country’s leading food retailers.
What Is the Pick n Pay Mastercut Artisan Programme?
The Mastercut Artisan Programme is a comprehensive butchery skills development initiative. It focuses on grooming individuals into qualified meat artisans through structured training, mentorship, and practical experience within Pick n Pay stores. The programme not only ensures high standards in meat processing and handling but also empowers young South Africans with employable skills in a niche area of retail.
The curriculum covers everything from carcass breakdown and portion control to hygiene standards, customer service, and product presentation. Participants are trained to work efficiently in a fast-paced retail environment while maintaining the strictest quality and food safety standards. The programme typically runs for a set duration (often 12–18 months), culminating in a nationally recognised artisan qualification.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN:
- Meat Mastery: Cut, trim, portion and prep like a pro, even sausages and cold cuts!
- Packaging and Display: Weigh, wrap and showcase the goods like it is your art gallery.
- Hygiene and Safety: Keep it clean, gear up right and handle tools like a champ.
- Operations Flow: Restock, run the floor and use cool kit (yes, even band saws).
- Customer Vibes: Own the counter, guide customers, and dish out expert meat tips
WHO CAN APPLY?
Pick n Pay seeks enthusiastic, hard-working, and committed individuals who are passionate about food and customer service. To be eligible for the programme, applicants generally need:
- A minimum of Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification
- A clear criminal record
- A willingness to work retail hours, including weekends and public holidays
- Good physical health and the ability to work in cold environments
- A strong interest in butchery, food preparation, or retail operations
While prior experience in butchery or food retail is advantageous, it is not mandatory. Pick n Pay values potential and passion over experience and is committed to developing raw talent into professional artisans.
Benefits of the Programme
The Mastercut Artisan Programme is more than just a skills course — it’s a career-launching opportunity. Participants gain:
- Hands-on experience in live retail environments
- Mentorship from skilled butchers and experienced team leaders
- Industry-recognised certification upon successful completion
- Potential employment within the Pick n Pay network
- Life skills training to support personal and professional development
For Pick n Pay, the programme is not just about filling jobs — it’s about transforming lives and communities through empowerment and education.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should prepare to upload your CV, matric certificate, and other supporting documents. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews and assessments to gauge their suitability for the programme.
APPLY FOR THE PICK N PAY MASTERCUT ARTISAN PROGRAMME FOR 2025 HERE
The Pick n Pay Mastercut Artisan Programme is a stellar example of how corporate South Africa can drive meaningful change by addressing youth unemployment and closing skills gaps. For those eager to enter the butchery trade or grow within the retail sector, this programme offers a structured and supportive route to success. With dedication, participants can carve out not just cuts of meat—but a solid career in one of the country’s most respected retailers.
CLOSING DATE: NOT SPECIFIED
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE
