McDonald’s South Africa is offering a Learnership Programme for unemployed South African youth who want to build a career in the fast-food and hospitality industry. Opportunities are available at different McDonald’s restaurants nationwide.

This learnership gives successful candidates the opportunity to gain practical workplace experience while studying towards an accredited qualification through CATHSSETA:

National Certificate: Fast Food Services (NQF Level 3)

The programme combines structured classroom learning with practical on-the-job training in a busy restaurant environment. Learners will receive exposure to food preparation, customer service, teamwork, restaurant operations, hygiene practices, and workplace communication.

The learnership is designed to help young people develop valuable skills that can improve future employment opportunities within the hospitality and food service sector.

Job Description

Successful learners will participate in daily restaurant operations while completing their training programme. Duties may include:

• Preparing meals and beverages according to McDonald’s operational standards.
• Assisting customers in a friendly and professional manner.
• Taking customer orders and processing payments at the front counter or drive-thru.
• Maintaining cleanliness in customer and staff areas.
• Packing and serving customer orders accurately and efficiently.
• Working closely with team members in a fast-paced environment.
• Attending all classroom-based training sessions.
• Completing assessments and portfolio tasks required for the qualification.
• Following workplace health, hygiene, safety, and security procedures.

Learners will also gain knowledge and experience in:

• Customer service and communication.
• Stock control and receiving deliveries.
• Food handling and preparation procedures.
• Workplace professionalism and teamwork.
• Basic administration and computer skills.
• Occupational health and safety practices.
• Hospitality and tourism industry operations.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12 / Matric certificate.
• Must be between 18 and 26 years old.
• South African citizen.
• Clear criminal record.
• Willing to work shifts, including weekends, evenings, and public holidays.
• Able to stand for long hours during shifts.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Must be able to travel to and from the workplace.

Required Documents

Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit:

• Certified copy of South African ID.
• Certified copy of Matric certificate or latest results.
• Updated CV.
• Proof of residence.
• Any additional supporting documents if required.

Please note that successful applicants may undergo criminal and background checks during the recruitment process.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online through the official McDonald’s recruitment platform which is SA youth

click below to apply

Closing Date

27 May 2026