Chef Savoury Apprentices 2026

• Complete a 3-year Apprenticeship in our world-renowned kitchen
• In house training & exposure to an extensive range of culinary techniques

At the Victorian Convention & Event Trust (VCET), we're anything but ordinary. We're the maestros of imagination, consistently pushing the boundaries of event excellence. We revel in turning the expected on its head, creating unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting mark.

About Us:

We welcome events of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand galas, conventions to virtual and hybrid meetings, exhibitions to electrifying concerts. Our doors are open for moments that connect us—whether in person, virtually, or a blend of both. Nestled along the picturesque Yarra River, Melbourne is our inspiration, reflected in our architecture, hospitality, location, and stunning views.

About the opportunity

VCET is committed to finding and developing our own talent.  Our Apprenticeship Program provides an opportunity for two (2) savoury Apprentices per yearto complete a three (3) year Apprenticeship in our world-renowned kitchen, with the opportunity to be trained, mentored and work alongside our award-winning Chefs.

There is also an opportunity to do a school based apprenticeship if desired to start your apprenticeship while in later years of secondary education. A school based apprenticeship through high school is a form of Vocational Education and Training (VET)

As a VCET Apprentice, you will be provided extensive and varied practical training in-house. Our in-house training will expose you to an extensive range of culinary techniques, both practical and theory based.

The kitchen team is made up of some of the brightest and skilled culinary experts from around the world, who serve up a range of exciting and creative dishes.

No matter the event size or scale, at MCEC it all comes back to one simple philosophy – made fresh, in-house, by hand.

In this role you will also be required to:

During your Apprenticeship you will be exposed to both current and developing culinary trends, using the latest equipment, systems, and technology available in the industry.

At the end of your Apprenticeship, you will hold a qualification that will enable you to continue your professional culinary career.

An Apprenticeship in Cookery requires a commitment of three years. You may obtain credits from previous studies, reducing the study requirements of your Apprenticeship. As an Apprentice you will be employed full-time by VCET.

Working days

You should expect to work five (5) shifts a week, with two (2) days off.  Shift hours are typically 7.6 hours in duration.

When you are completing your formal training, you will be expected to attend classes one (1) day a week and work four (4) shifts at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) each week.

Your shifts will be on a roster basis. For example, you could be working weekdays or weekends, depending on VCET event requirements and the roster schedule. 

Shift times

Shifts will typically be either:

• Day shifts - with early morning start times (some shifts may start very early depending on the event we are catering to).
• Afternoon shifts – starting later in the day and finishing in the evening.

You should expect to be rostered onto shifts during the week and on weekends.

Interview Process

Candidates may be contacted for interviews prior to advertisement closure.

Interviews for successful candidates will commence November/December 2025 was applications are closed.

Start date for successful applicants will be Monday 2nd February, 2026

What's for you?

• Flexible hours and uniform provided & cleaned on-site.
• Exclusive discounts: Parking, food, childcare, healthcare and many more
• Free breakfast and subsidised lunch/dinner catered by our Chefs each day
• Keep cup incentive with an exclusive staff coffee deal at our Cafés.
• An iconic venue where no day is the same.
• And so much more……

Your well-being matters

We care about more than just your job title. Our well-being initiatives are here to support you inside and outside of work.

• Confidential counselling through our Employee Assistance Program.
• Discounted gym and pool access with Fitness Passport.
• Financial coaching through Money Assist, because your future is worth investing in.

Make an impact

We don't just talk about community; we invest in it. Through our partnerships with leading Australian charities, we contribute nearly $2 million annually to causes that champion sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.

Your development

We're dedicated to being the place where you come to learn and grow. Our annual learning and development programs provide opportunities to help drive your career forward.

Who is VCET?

Victorian Convention and Exhibition Trust (VCET) manages and operates Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the upcoming Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.

VCET oversees the strategic direction and operational management of both venues, ensuring they deliver world-class events and experiences. Committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, MCET plays a pivotal role in positioning Victoria as a leading global destination for conferences, exhibitions, and events.

Built on the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra River), Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC. We recognise the ongoing significance of the Birrarung to Traditional Owners as a life source and a meeting place for millennia and seek to honour this long-standing tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands.

Join us in celebrating the artistry of events, paying homage to the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. At VCET, we are united in our commitment to diversity and equality, where every individual's unique story enriches the grand narrative, we create. Step into the limelight and be part of something truly spectacular. Apply now to make your mark behind the scenes