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Butcher Apprentice Jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY (NOW HIRING)

DECICCO & SONS GROUP

Meat Apprentice

Somers, NY · On-site

Following Company Apprentice program to lead to a role of butcher. Team members work safely and adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards in each area of the department to provide customers ...

DECICCO & SONS GROUP

Meat Apprentice

Somers, NY · On-site

Following Company Apprentice program to lead to a role of butcher. Team members work safely and adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards in each area of the department to provide customers ...

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Butcher Apprentice information

See Poughkeepsie, NY salary details

$11

$14

$18

How much do butcher apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher apprentice in Poughkeepsie, NY is $14.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

How much does a butcher apprentice make?

A butcher apprentice typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training while working under a skilled butcher, and wages may increase as skills improve and certifications are obtained.
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Infographic showing various Butcher Apprentice job openings in Poughkeepsie, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,195 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Meat Apprentice

DECICCO & SONS GROUP

Somers, NY • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the cutting, preparation, display, and selling of meat products under the direction of a more experienced cutter.

  • Prepare meat for display, stock, price, rotate, and place products on meat displays according to company standards.

  • Maintain sanitation standards in the backroom, cooler, and sales area, and perform washing, trimming, and wrapping of products.

DeCicco & Sons rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you a food aficionado who simply cannot learn enough about what the world food market has to offer? Do you love being around friendly people every day with the same interests and ambitions. Do you take a genuine love in your work and make sure that others feel welcome and at home in your environment?
If you answered yes to these questions, then DeCicco & Sons is the perfect place for you! If you have an interest in working with one of the fastest growing premium quality food markets in the Westchester area, please bring us a resume along with a detailed cover letter letting us know why you chose DeCicco's and what you wish to offer with your experience and expertise. Whether you're a chef wanting to hone your craft in our kitchens, a manager wanting to extend your invaluable food knowledge to our shoppers, or a cashier looking to find a friendly and fun place to work, we are always interested in expanding the DeCicco & Sons family.
Current Job Opportunities:
Meat Apprentice
Position Description:
The Meat Apprentice under the direction of a more experienced cutter will cultivate and enhance cutting skills, perform duties related to the cutting, preparation, display and selling of meat products. Following Company Apprentice program to lead to a role of butcher. Team members work safely and adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards in each area of the department to provide customers with the highest quality meat offerings.
Your day-to-day:
  • Prepare meat for display on the sales floor.
  • Stock, price, rotate and place product on meat displays according to DeCicco & Sons standards.
  • Maintain sanitation standards in the backroom, cooler, and sales area.
  • Wash, trim, and wrap products.
  • Other duties may be assigned at the discretion of store management

Physical Demands:
  • Bending
  • Stooping
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Working on feet for entire shift

What you bring to the team:
  • Great customer service
  • Ability to work on a team
  • Good oral communication skills
  • Great work ethic

Why You will love working here!
At DeCicco & Sons, we believe that happy, loyal Team Members create happy, loyal customers - in that order. That is why we focus on comprehensive benefits that are aimed at creating happiness in your work-life, and future-life.
Benefits:
Affordable Quality Healthcare Coverage
Dental Coverage
Vision Coverage
Pension Plan
Employee Wellness Program
Voluntary Life Insurance
Yearly Pay Increase and Merit Pay
Team Member Discounts
Paid Time-off
Holiday Pay
Company Paternity & Maternity Leave
*All benefits are subject to certain eligibility requirements.
Perks - Perks are the extras-the things we do to make sure you know how amazing we think you are!
Scholarship Program
Competitive Pay Above Minimum Wage
Refer-a-friend Program
Company Bonding Events: Playland, Company BBQ, Movie Night, Holiday Party, Gym membership, Discount Cellular Phone Coverage, Holiday Costume Competitions, Food Catering Discount, Team Member Recognitions & Rewards, Team Member Assistance Program.

What DeCicco & Sons employees say

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