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Butcher Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

E.W. James & Sons

Meat Cutter (Butcher)

Union City, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

... to butcher apprentices. • Wraps raw meat and chicken products. • Assist customers with specific needs. • Cleans and sanitizes meat preparation room. • Ensures meat and seafood counters ...

E.W. James & Sons

Meat Cutter (Butcher)

Mckenzie, TN · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

... to butcher apprentices. • Wraps raw meat and chicken products. • Assist customers with specific needs. • Cleans and sanitizes meat preparation room. • Ensures meat and seafood counters ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Englishtown, NJ

$17.50 - $30.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Glendale, CA

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Ridgewood, NJ

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

San Mateo, CA

$19.50 - $30.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Jackson, MS

$15.50 - $29.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Westport, CT

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Part Time

Milford, CT

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Miami, FL

$16.50 - $30.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Arlington, MA

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Boca Raton, FL

$15.50 - $29.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Austin, TX · On-site

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Glendale, CA

$19 - $30.20/hr

Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK Exceptions may apply Physical Requirements/Working Conditions * Must be able to lift 50 pounds. * In an ...

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Butcher Apprenticeship information

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$18

How much do butcher apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher apprenticeship in the United States is $14.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Among apprenticeship trades, skilled roles such as elevator installers, power plant operators, and certain construction trades tend to have the highest starting wages and earning potential. These apprenticeships often require specialized skills, certifications, and can lead to high-paying careers upon completion.

What are some common challenges faced during a butcher apprenticeship, and how can they be overcome?

Butcher apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering knife skills, adapting to early morning shifts, and maintaining strict food safety standards. It can also be physically demanding, requiring endurance and attention to detail when handling large cuts of meat. Overcoming these challenges involves practicing techniques regularly, learning from experienced butchers, and staying organized to ensure safety and efficiency. Building strong communication skills also helps when working closely with team members to fulfill orders and maintain a clean workspace.

What is the difference between Butcher Apprenticeship vs Butcher?

AspectButcher ApprenticeshipButcher
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certificationsExperience, certifications or licenses may be required
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised work in butcher shops or meat processing facilitiesFull-time work in retail or wholesale meat shops
Job RoleTraining and skill development in meat cutting and safetyPerforming meat cutting, trimming, and customer service

The main difference is that a Butcher Apprenticeship is a training program designed to develop skills and gain experience, often involving supervised work and learning. A Butcher is a fully qualified professional who performs meat cutting and customer service independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a butcher by providing hands-on training and foundational knowledge.

What is a butcher apprenticeship?

A butcher apprenticeship is a structured training program where individuals learn the skills and knowledge needed to become professional butchers. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced butchers, gaining hands-on experience in meat cutting, processing, food safety, and customer service. The apprenticeship typically combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, and may lead to certification or a recognized qualification in the meat industry. This pathway is ideal for those interested in a skilled trade with opportunities for career advancement.

How to become a butcher's apprentice?

To become a butcher's apprentice, typically you need to be at least 16 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You can apply directly to butcher shops or grocery stores offering apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction on meat cutting, safety, and sanitation. Some regions may require a food handler's permit or certification before starting.

How much does a trainee butcher make?

A trainee butcher typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience and location. As they gain skills in meat cutting, sanitation, and safety, their wages can increase. Apprenticeships often include on-the-job training and may lead to higher pay as proficiency improves.

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 solid understanding of meat cuts, food safety, and basic knife skills, often gained through hands-on training or a vocational program. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, scales, and compliance with food hygiene regulations is essential. Attention to detail, good communication, and strong physical stamina are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure quality meat preparation, workplace safety, and excellent customer service in a demanding environment.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Butcher apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, motivation, and a willingness to learn over age, and adult learners often bring valuable life experience to the program.
More about Butcher Apprenticeship jobs
What cities are hiring for Butcher Apprenticeship jobs? Cities with the most Butcher Apprenticeship job openings:
What states have the most Butcher Apprenticeship jobs? States with the most job openings for Butcher Apprenticeship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Butcher Apprenticeship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Butcher Apprenticeship jobs are:
Butcher Apprenticeship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Butcher Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $30,562 per year, or $14.7 per hour.
Meat Cutter (Butcher)

Meat Cutter (Butcher)

E.W. James & Sons

Union City, TN • On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Summary: The Meat Cutter is responsible for ensuring the meat cases are consistently stocked with fresh, high-quality meat and poultry products. Key duties include receiving and stocking items, cutting, grinding, wrapping, weighing, pricing, and merchandising meat department products. Meat Cutters are expected to assist customers with special requests, answer questions about meat products and services, and perform various other tasks as needed. Proficiency with equipment such as meat saws, slicers, grinders, wrapping machines, and knives is required. Responsibilities also include helping with truck unloading and maintaining a clean and safe work area. Adherence to safety protocols with all equipment and in all operational areas is essential.
Key Responsibilities: (Responsibilities may vary depending on assignment.)
• Provide outstanding customer service.
• Regularly cutting all meat products.
• Provide training to butcher apprentices.
• Wraps raw meat and chicken products.
• Assist customers with specific needs.
• Cleans and sanitizes meat preparation room.
• Ensures meat and seafood counters, shelves, and freezers are well stocked and up to cleanliness standards.
• Operates grinder to prepare ground beef for packaging.
• Ensures proper rotation of all fresh meat and seafood products.
• Follows safety and security procedures.
• Check in vendors and unload product.
• Regularly operate saws, grinder, knives, and slicers.
• Maintains excellent personal hygiene habits.
• May assist on front-end with cashier and carryout duties as needed.
• Any other responsibilities as assigned by manager.
Work Environment:
  • May be exposed to all weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, ice and wind) as well as, inside work with variations in heat, cold, dust, and humidity.
  • Must be able to perform work inside of walk-in cooler and freezer. This role also requires one to be able to perform work inside of a preparation room which is kept at a cooler temperature than room temperature.
  • Fast paced retail environment.

Physical Requirements:
  • Frequently moves, lifts, and carries merchandise and supplies weighing less than or equal to 80 pounds without assistance. Occassioanlly moves, lifts, and carries merchandise and supplies weighing less than or equal to 100 pounds.
  • Occasionally reaches overhead and below the knees, including pushing, pulling, squatting, kneeling, bending, stooping, crouching, and twisting with or without bearing weight. Occasionally required to climb and/or crawl.
  • Stands or walks continuously throughout the shift.

Qualifications & Other Job Requirements:
• Previous experience in a retail or grocery environment with meat cutting experience required.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Minimum age requirement = 18 years old.

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