Nando’s South Africa, one of the country’s most beloved restaurant brands, has announced exciting new hiring opportunities for 2025. The company is recruiting passionate, energetic, and customer-focused individuals to join its restaurants across all nine provinces. Whether you are looking for your first job or seeking to grow your career in the food and hospitality industry, Nando’s offers a dynamic and friendly work environment where every employee is valued.
Known for its flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken and vibrant atmosphere, Nando’s is more than just a restaurant — it’s a global brand with a proudly South African heart. The company’s success has always been driven by its people, who bring warmth, laughter, and flavor to every customer experience.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Nando’s South Africa’s 2025 recruitment campaign, including the available positions, requirements, salaries, and how to apply successfully.
About Nando’s South Africa
Nando’s was founded in Johannesburg in 1987 by Fernando Duarte and Robert Brozin, who shared a love for PERi-PERi chicken. What started as a single restaurant in Rosettenville has grown into a global success story, with more than 1,200 outlets across 30 countries. Despite its international reach, Nando’s has remained deeply rooted in South African culture and continues to invest heavily in the country’s economy and youth employment.
The brand is known for its unique combination of food, music, art, and humor. Nando’s restaurants are designed to reflect local creativity, often showcasing South African art and design. Behind this creative energy is a strong focus on people — employees are called “Nandocas,” and they are considered the heart of the brand.
Why Work at Nando’s
Working at Nando’s means being part of a family that values respect, teamwork, and growth. The company believes that happy employees create happy customers. That’s why Nando’s invests in its staff, providing training, fair pay, and opportunities for personal development.
1. Positive Work Culture
Nando’s fosters an inclusive, supportive, and fun environment where everyone is treated with dignity. The culture emphasizes teamwork, open communication, and a sense of belonging.
2. Career Growth
Many managers and senior staff began as waiters, cooks, or cashiers. Through hard work and continuous learning, they advanced their careers within the company. Nando’s promotes from within and supports personal development.
3. Training and Development
Employees receive hands-on training in customer service, food preparation, and leadership. The company provides ongoing learning opportunities to ensure that everyone can grow professionally.
4. Competitive Pay and Benefits
Nando’s offers fair wages, performance bonuses, and additional perks such as free meals during shifts.
5. Community Impact
Nando’s is dedicated to social responsibility. The brand supports local farmers, artists, and youth initiatives. Working for Nando’s means being part of a company that gives back to South Africa.
Available 2025 Vacancies
Nando’s 2025 hiring campaign covers a wide variety of positions suitable for different skill levels and experiences.
Restaurant Roles
• Waiters and Waitresses – Serve food, take orders, and provide excellent customer service.
• Cashiers – Handle customer payments, operate tills, and assist with front-of-house duties.
• Cooks and Grillers – Prepare PERi-PERi chicken and other menu items according to Nando’s standards.
• Kitchen Assistants – Support chefs by cleaning, preparing ingredients, and organizing workstations.
• Cleaners – Ensure the restaurant remains spotless, from the dining area to the kitchen.
• Supervisors and Shift Leaders – Manage restaurant operations, staff, and customer experience during shifts.
Corporate and Support Roles
Nando’s also employs people in corporate departments such as marketing, human resources, finance, IT, and logistics at its head offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Student and Part-Time Positions
Part-time jobs are available for students or individuals looking to earn extra income. These positions offer flexibility while providing valuable work experience.
Minimum Requirements
Requirements may vary by position, but most entry-level jobs have the following basic criteria:
• Grade 10 or Grade 12 certificate
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays
• Teamwork and customer-service orientation
• Positive attitude and reliability
• South African ID or valid work permit
• No criminal record
Previous restaurant or retail experience is an advantage but not essential.
Skills and Qualities Nando’s Looks For
Nando’s employees share a common spirit called the “Nando’s DNA.” It includes passion, pride, courage, integrity, and family values. The company looks for individuals who are:
• Friendly and approachable
• Reliable and hardworking
• Eager to learn and grow
• Able to handle busy environments
• Positive and solution-driven
• Respectful to colleagues and customers
Typical Job Responsibilities
Depending on your role, daily duties at Nando’s may include:
• Greeting and serving customers warmly
• Taking food and drink orders accurately
• Preparing meals according to recipe and quality standards
• Operating cash registers and handling payments
• Keeping work areas clean and organized
• Monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages
• Following health and safety procedures
• Supporting teammates to ensure smooth service
Supervisors and managers also:
• Train and motivate staff
• Handle customer complaints or special requests
• Oversee cash flow and shift reports
• Ensure compliance with company policies
Salary Information
Nando’s pays competitive salaries in line with the South African hospitality industry. Typical monthly ranges for 2025 include:
• Waiters and Cashiers: R5,000 – R7,000 per month
• Cooks and Kitchen Assistants: R5,500 – R8,000 per month
• Cleaners: R4,500 – R6,000 per month
• Supervisors: R8,000 – R12,000 per month
• Restaurant Managers: R14,000 – R22,000 per month
Employees may also receive performance-based bonuses, free meals, and uniform allowances.
Work Locations
Nando’s operates restaurants in every South African province, including major cities and smaller towns. Key locations include:
• Gauteng – Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounding areas
• Western Cape – Cape Town, Paarl, and Stellenbosch
• KwaZulu-Natal – Durban, Umhlanga, and Pietermaritzburg
• Eastern Cape – Gqeberha and East London
• Free State – Bloemfontein and Welkom
• Limpopo – Polokwane and Thohoyandou
• North West – Mahikeng and Rustenburg
• Mpumalanga – Nelspruit and Ermelo
• Northern Cape – Kimberley and Upington
Applicants can choose their preferred branch or region when applying.
Work Environment
Working at Nando’s is fast-paced but full of energy and teamwork. The atmosphere is casual yet professional, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Employees interact closely, forming a family-like bond that makes the workplace enjoyable.
Cleanliness, hygiene, and safety are top priorities. Every restaurant follows strict food-safety protocols to maintain Nando’s high standards.
How to Apply
Nando’s makes it simple for job seekers to apply. The recruitment process can be completed online or in person.
Online Application
- Prepare a clear and updated CV.
- Visit the official Nando’s South Africa Careers website or recognized job platforms.
- Search for open positions in your area.
- Read the job description carefully.
- Complete the online form and attach your CV.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
In-Person Application
Applicants can visit a local Nando’s restaurant to ask about available positions. Bring a printed CV and speak to the restaurant manager.
Application Tips
• Apply early to increase your chances.
• Keep your CV short and professional.
• Highlight any experience in food service or customer care.
• Dress neatly when delivering your CV in person.
• Be enthusiastic and polite when interacting with staff or managers.
• Check your email regularly for feedback or interview invitations.
Career Growth Opportunities
Nando’s strongly believes in nurturing its people. Many employees have grown from entry-level positions to management roles through dedication and training.
Career growth examples include:
Crew Member → Shift Leader → Assistant Manager → Restaurant Manager → Regional Operations Manager
The company offers leadership courses, mentorship, and internal promotions for those who perform well.
Employee Benefits
Nando’s ensures that employees enjoy more than just a salary. Benefits include:
• Free meals during shifts
• Paid annual leave and public-holiday pay
• Uniforms provided by the company
• Ongoing training and certification
• Performance rewards and recognition programs
• Opportunities for international transfers for top-performing managers
These benefits make Nando’s one of the best employers in the hospitality sector.
Training and Development
Every new employee participates in an onboarding program that introduces Nando’s culture, customer service standards, and food safety. Ongoing training helps staff improve their skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership.
Employees who show potential may attend management training programs designed to prepare them for higher positions. These programs teach business skills such as budgeting, scheduling, and staff management.
Work-Life Balance
Nando’s values its employees’ well-being. Shift schedules are designed to balance work and personal life. Staff are encouraged to communicate openly with managers about availability or family responsibilities. The company also provides wellness initiatives to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Nando’s is committed to diversity and inclusion. The company welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and ensures fair treatment in hiring and promotion. People with disabilities and those from disadvantaged communities are encouraged to apply.
Community Engagement
Nando’s is known for its strong community spirit. Through initiatives such as “Nando’s Art,” the company supports emerging South African artists. It also participates in food donation programs and youth empowerment projects. Employees are often involved in community volunteer events, reinforcing Nando’s reputation as a socially responsible employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nando’s hire without experience?
Yes. Many positions are entry-level, and training is provided.
What is the minimum age to work at Nando’s?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Can I work part-time?
Yes. Part-time and flexible shifts are available.
Do I need qualifications to apply?
A Grade 10 or Grade 12 certificate is usually sufficient.
How long does the recruitment process take?
It varies by branch, but successful candidates are typically contacted within two to four weeks.
What documents are needed to apply?
Applicants should have a South African ID, matric certificate, and updated CV.
Ethics and Professional Conduct
Nando’s maintains high ethical standards. Employees must treat colleagues and customers with respect and honesty. The company enforces strict hygiene and food-safety rules, ensuring every meal meets its global quality standards.
Professional behavior, punctuality, and teamwork are expected from all employees.
Why Choose Nando’s as an Employer
Nando’s offers more than just a job — it provides a career filled with energy, growth, and passion. The company’s unique culture combines professionalism with fun, allowing employees to enjoy their work while learning valuable skills.
Employees describe the experience as life-changing, not only because of the opportunities to grow but also because of the friendships and pride that come with wearing the Nando’s uniform.
Working at Nando’s gives individuals the confidence to handle challenges, improve communication, and understand the importance of teamwork. These are lifelong skills that can open doors in many industries.
Future Opportunities
As Nando’s continues to open new restaurants across South Africa, future job opportunities will remain abundant. The company is also expanding its digital services and delivery operations, creating new roles in logistics and customer support.
Employees who join now can grow alongside the brand and benefit from its ongoing expansion.
In Conclusion
Nando’s South Africa’s 2025 job openings present an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about food, people, and service. The company’s focus on employee development, inclusivity, and community impact makes it one of the top employers in the country’s restaurant industry.
If you are a team player with enthusiasm and a strong work ethic, Nando’s could be the perfect place to start or advance your career. Interested applicants should visit the official Nando’s Careers website or inquire at local branches for available positions.
A job at Nando’s isn’t just about serving chicken — it’s about joining a vibrant family that celebrates hard work, creativity, and South African pride. With dedication and passion, your Nando’s journey could be the beginning of a lifelong career in hospitality.
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