ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Butcher Apprentice Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Black Earth Meats

Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Madison, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Butcher's Assistant/Apprentice- Applicant must possess strong work ethic and a desire to learn. Previous experience in butchery is not necessary but the ability to handle a knife confidently is. This ...

Black Earth Meats

Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Madison, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Butcher's Assistant/Apprentice - Applicant must possess strong work ethic and a desire to learn. Previous experience in butchery is not necessary but the ability to handle a knife confidently is.

Lake Geneva Country Club

Jr. Sous Chef

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Trains, apprentices the line cooks as necessary. * Maintains sanitary and hygienic food preparation ... Butchers/processes all meats and seafood as needed for daily consumption. * Prepares and/or assists ...

All JobsButcher Apprentice JobsButcher Apprentice Jobs in Wisconsin

Butcher Apprentice information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$14

$18

How much do butcher apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher apprentice in Wisconsin is $14.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Butcher Apprentice might face during their training, and how can they overcome them?

As a Butcher Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as mastering precise knife skills, learning to identify different cuts of meat, and adhering to strict safety and hygiene standards. The fast-paced environment and physical demands of the role can also be an adjustment. Overcoming these challenges involves seeking mentorship from experienced butchers, practicing techniques regularly, and staying attentive to feedback. Building a strong foundation in food safety and maintaining a positive attitude toward continual learning will help you succeed and progress in the trade.

What Does a Butcher Apprentice Do?

Butcher apprentices train with professional butchers to learn about the tools and techniques of the trade. You find these apprenticeships at meat preparation and packing plants, retail stores and supermarkets, and some restaurants that prepare their own meats. As a butcher apprentice, you start by observing experienced butchers, learning how to use the various cutting and packaging tools and the different butchering techniques required to cut or grind the meat to specifications. You also learn how to wrap meat properly to preserve freshness, tenderize cuts of meat, stock display cases, and provide customer service at meat counters or in butcher shops. Even while training as a butcher apprentice, you need to adhere to food safety practices for handling and disposing of meat. These apprenticeships often lead to full-time jobs.

What is the hourly rate for a butcher?

The hourly rate for a butcher apprentice typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. As apprentices gain skills and certifications, their pay may increase accordingly.

What is top pay for a meat cutter at Costco?

The top pay for a meat cutter at Costco typically ranges from $20 to $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and seniority. Experienced meat cutters with specialized skills may earn higher wages, and benefits often include health insurance and retirement plans.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

A butcher apprentice can be of any age, including 27, as apprenticeships are open to adults seeking to learn the trade. Age is generally not a barrier, and many apprentices start later in life to gain new skills or change careers. Success depends on motivation, willingness to learn, and meeting any specific program requirements.

What is the difference between Butcher Apprentice vs Meat Cutter?

AspectButcher ApprenticeMeat Cutter
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certifications in food safetyHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentMeat shops, grocery stores, butcheriesGrocery stores, supermarkets, meat markets
Job RoleLearning butchering skills, assisting in meat preparationCutting, trimming, and preparing meat for sale
Industry UsageCommonly used during training stagesFull-time role in meat departments

While both roles involve working with meat, a Butcher Apprentice is in training to become a skilled butcher, focusing on learning techniques and skills. A Meat Cutter is a more experienced worker responsible for cutting and preparing meat for customers. The apprentice role is often a stepping stone towards becoming a Meat Cutter.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Butcher Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Butcher Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of meat cuts, food safety practices, and a willingness to learn on the job, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with knives, saws, grinders, and safety equipment is important, as is knowledge of sanitation standards and possible completion of food handling certification. Attention to detail, strong communication, and good physical stamina are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient meat processing and excellent customer service, which are crucial for success in the industry.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Among apprenticeship trades, skilled trades such as elevator installers, power plant operators, and nuclear technicians tend to have the highest wages. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and sometimes longer apprenticeship periods, but they offer higher pay compared to other trades like carpentry or plumbing.

What does a butcher apprentice do?

A butcher apprentice works under the supervision of experienced butchers to learn the skills needed for cutting, trimming, and preparing meat for sale or further processing. Their duties often include assisting with receiving and inspecting meat deliveries, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and learning how to break down carcasses and portion meat cuts. They also help ensure that all food safety and hygiene standards are followed. Over time, apprentices gain hands-on experience in knife skills, customer service, and inventory management. This role is essential for those wishing to advance to a full butcher position.
More about Butcher Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Butcher jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Butcher jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Butcher Apprentice jobs in Wisconsin? For Butcher Apprentice jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Butcher Apprentice jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Butcher Apprentice jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Butcher Apprentice jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Butcher Apprentice job openings:
Butcher Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Butcher Apprentice job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 73% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $30,848 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Black Earth Meats

Madison, WI • On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Conscious Carnivore by Black Earth Meats is hiring for two newly created F/T positions. Butcher's Assistant/Apprentice- Applicant must possess strong work ethic and a desire to learn. Previous experience in butchery is not necessary but the ability to handle a knife confidently is.

This position will require public interaction so the capability to engage and converse with our customers and a clean, presentable appearance are also highly valued. We are willing to train the right applicant in the art of butchery but we ask that he/she show a passion and reverence for their work. Retail- For this position applicant must possess a strong work ethic and the ability to interact easily with our customers.

They must also show a willingness to devote time and effort into education about not only meat, but the practices of our farmers and our harvesting/processing facility in Black Earth. Those with a background in education, restaurants, or sustainable agriculture are encouraged to apply. Please submit resume and cover letter as pdf files.

No phone calls please.

Apply