Marriott International is offering an exciting opportunity for aspiring chefs through its Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee program across various locations in South Africa. This program is designed to provide comprehensive training and practical experience in the hospitality industry, serving as a foundation for a rewarding culinary career.
Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee programme Overview
The Accelerate program is a youth development initiative spanning three years, focusing on either hospitality management or professional cookery. It aims to enhance engagement and interest in the hospitality sector among South African nationals. The program combines practical on-the-job training with formal academic development, ensuring participants gain a well-rounded understanding of hotel operations.
Orientation Year
The journey begins with a one-year orientation period, during which Professional Cookery Trainees work across various sections of a hotel kitchen. This exposure helps trainees gain practical insights into hotel operations and assess their suitability for a long-term career in the industry. It’s important to note that completing the orientation year does not guarantee acceptance into the subsequent three-year program; candidates must apply for the first-year intake towards the end of their orientation year.
Candidate Profile
To be eligible for the Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen by birth.
- Age: Between 18 and 22 years old, not turning older than 22 in the application year.
- Education: Possess a Matric (Grade 12) certificate or equivalent accredited NQF or NCV Level 4 qualification, with passes in all seven subjects, preferably achieving 50% or higher in each.
- Qualifications: Applicants should not have any post-Matric/NQF 4/NCV 4 qualifications.
Application Requirements
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents:
- Matric Certificate and/or Statement of Results (if currently in Matric, submit the September report card).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Cover letter outlining the reasons for applying.
Core Competencies
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Enthusiasm for tackling new projects and ideas.
- Strong organizational skills and punctuality.
- Flexibility to work different shifts, including mornings, evenings, and nights.
- Passion for the hospitality industry and a commitment to delivering exceptional service.
Program Locations
The Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee positions are available at the following Marriott properties:
- Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers
- Location: Corner of Century Boulevard and Rialto Road, Cape Town, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Cape Town
- Location: 64 New Church Street, Cape Town, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Breakwater Lodge
- Location: Portswood Road, Cape Town, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Karridene Beach
- Location: Old South Coast Road, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott King George
- Location: King George Drive, George, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Mahikeng
- Location: 80 Nelson Mandela Drive, Mahikeng, North West.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Midrand
- Location: 14th Street, Midrand, Gauteng.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Mowbray
- Location: Liesbeek Avenue off Liesbeek Parkway, Cape Town, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott O.R. Tambo Airport
- Location: Corner of York & Gladiator Streets, Rhodesfield, Johannesburg, Gauteng.
- Apply Now
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Tygervalley
- Location: Uys Krige Drive, Jip de Jager off ramp, Ext 20, Cape Town, Western Cape.
- Apply Now
Benefits
Participants in the Accelerate program can expect:
- A professional environment with opportunities to learn from industry experts.
- Being part of the world’s largest hotel company, offering vast career possibilities.
- Personal coaching and training to support career development.
- Access to the “Take Care” program, focusing on overall well-being with various healthy and fun activities throughout the year.
Future Prospects
Upon successful completion of the orientation year, candidates may apply for the three-year In-Service Trainee Program. The Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee program provides in-depth exposure to hotel operations, with trainees placed in different Marriott hotels across South Africa each year. The experience includes working in various types of hotels—city center, resort, country—and under different management styles, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry.
Related: Spar Graduate Placement Programme 2024 / 2025
The Accelerate Orientation Chef Trainee program offered by Marriott International is a stepping stone for young South African culinary enthusiasts eager to build a fulfilling career in the hospitality industry. With its well-rounded training approach—combining practical experience and academic learning—this program equips participants with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
Don’t miss the chance to embark on this exciting journey with Marriott International. Apply now and take the first step toward achieving your culinary dreams!