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Butcher Meat Cutter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Butcher

San Diego, CA

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

Upland, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

Los Altos, CA

$19.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

Sunnyvale, CA

$20 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

San Diego, CA

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Butcher

San Mateo, CA

$19.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Meat cutters, Butchers, and experienced Meat Clerks are needed. *This is a summary of some key duties and physical requirements and is not intended to be a complete . Benefits/Perks Employee ...

Butcher

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $31/hr

Butchers will ensure special guest requests are accommodated while delivering the same high quality standards Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields ...

Butcher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $32.50/hr

Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields while ensuring proper food safety and sanitation standards are upheld for guest safety. One key to our success ...

Butcher

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $30.75/hr

Butchers will ensure special guest requests are accommodated while delivering the same high quality standards Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields ...

Butcher

San Diego, CA

$17.75 - $32.50/hr

Butchers will ensure special guest requests are accommodated while delivering the same high quality standards Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields ...

Butcher

San Diego, CA

$17.75 - $32.50/hr

Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields while ensuring proper food safety and sanitation standards are upheld for guest safety. One key to our success ...

Butcher

El Segundo, CA

$16.90 - $31/hr

Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields while ensuring proper food safety and sanitation standards are upheld for guest safety. One key to our success ...

Butcher

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $32.50/hr

Butchers will ensure special guest requests are accommodated while delivering the same high quality standards Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields ...

Butcher

Palm Desert, CA

$16.90 - $30.75/hr

Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields while ensuring proper food safety and sanitation standards are upheld for guest safety. One key to our success ...

Butcher

La Jolla, CA

$17.75 - $32.50/hr

Butchers will coordinate meat and seafood cutting to support timely and efficient yields while ensuring proper food safety and sanitation standards are upheld for guest safety. One key to our success ...

Showing results 41-60

Butcher Meat Cutter information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do butcher meat cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher meat cutter in California is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do butcher meat cutters get paid the most?

Butcher meat cutters tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and strong retail or wholesale food industries, such as urban areas or states with a significant meat processing sector. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in larger supermarkets or specialty meat shops.

How hard is it to be a butcher meat cutter?

Being a butcher meat cutter requires physical strength, attention to detail, and knowledge of meat cutting techniques. The job involves working with sharp tools and handling heavy loads, often in a fast-paced environment, which can be physically demanding and requires safety awareness. Experience and training are important for efficiency and safety in this role.

What does a butcher meat cutter do?

A butcher meat cutter is responsible for preparing, cutting, trimming, and packaging various types of meat for sale or consumption. They use knives, saws, and other tools to portion meat according to customer specifications or store requirements. Butcher meat cutters also ensure that meat products are stored and handled safely, maintain cleanliness in their work area, and may assist customers with selecting and preparing different cuts of meat.

What is the difference between Butcher Meat Cutter vs Meat Processing Technician?

AspectButcher Meat CutterMeat Processing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, food safety certificationsHigh school diploma, food safety certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentButcher shops, grocery stores, meat marketsMeat processing plants, slaughterhouses, processing facilities
Industry UsageRetail and wholesale meat salesMeat processing and packaging
Job FocusCutting, trimming, and preparing meat for saleProcessing, grinding, and preparing meat products

The main difference between a Butcher Meat Cutter and a Meat Processing Technician lies in their work environment and focus. Butcher Meat Cutters primarily work in retail settings, preparing meat for sale, while Meat Processing Technicians work in processing plants, handling larger-scale meat processing tasks. Both roles require food safety certifications and involve meat handling, but their daily tasks and work settings differ significantly.

How much does a butcher meat cutter get paid?

A butcher meat cutter typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Experienced cutters with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher wages, and some work full-time in retail or wholesale settings with benefits.

What are the typical challenges faced by a butcher meat cutter, and how can they be managed effectively?

Butcher Meat Cutters often face challenges such as maintaining strict food safety standards, working efficiently during busy hours, and handling physically demanding tasks like lifting heavy pieces of meat. Effective time management and attention to cleanliness are crucial to prevent contamination and meet customer expectations. Many butchers find that developing strong knife skills and staying organized in the workspace help them work safely and efficiently. Team collaboration is also essential, as butchers typically coordinate with other staff to ensure smooth operations and timely product availability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a butcher meat cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Butcher Meat Cutter, you need strong knife skills, knowledge of meat cuts, food safety understanding, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, scales, and safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring quality products, workplace safety, and excellent customer satisfaction in meat processing and retail environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California? The most popular types of Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California? For Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Butcher Meat Cutter jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Butcher Meat Cutter jobs? Cities in California with the most Butcher Meat Cutter job openings:
Infographic showing various Butcher Meat Cutter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,726 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Whole Foods Market rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Whole Foods Market

Based on 1,458 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.1

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.1 out of 10

Grocery stores average

Based on 49,976 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Whole Foods Market

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid time off

    say they get paid time off

  • 90%

    90% say their health insurance is affordable

    say their health insurance is affordable

  • 87%

    87% say they have respectful managers

    say they have respectful managers

Featured by Whole Foods Market, based on 1458 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

A career at Whole Foods Market is more than just the work you do- it's about your personal growth and creating meaningful change. Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. That means improving how people eat, funding grants for school gardens, providing access to fresh and healthy food to people living within food deserts, alleviating poverty in developing countries, and so much more. Working with us means you are making a difference within your community and beyond. We aren't just a grocery store: we're world-changers. And with your help, we will continue to set the standards of excellence and revolutionize the grocery industry.

Performs duties relating to the cutting, preparation, display, and selling of meat products. All Whole Foods Market Retail jobs require ensuring a positive company image by providing courteous, friendly, and efficient service to customers and Team Members at all times. All positions must be performed in accordance with team and store Standard Operating Procedures. Further, Team Members must be prepared and able to perform the duties inherent in other Team Member job descriptions. All positions must strive to support WFM core values and goals, promote national, regional, and store programs and initiatives, and ensure adherence to all applicable health and safety regulations including Food Safety and regulatory duties required in the department. Job Responsibilities
  • Cuts, platters, and merchandises products (beef, pork, lamb, veal, poultry). 

  • Prepares specialty meat merchandise (i.e. sausage, oven ready products, and cured meats). 

  • Checks product to make sure it meets WFM quality standards. 

  • Maintains sampling program. 

  • Monitors and assists in preventing spoilage. 

  • Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). 

  • Arrives to work station on time, appropriately groomed, dressed and ready to work; works all scheduled shifts and attends required trainings and meetings. 

  • Provides excellent customer service, addresses needs of customers in a timely and effective manner and models suggestive selling techniques; answers phones and pages promptly and courteously. 

  • Maximizes sales potential through effective and proper procedures for prepping, storing, rotating, stocking, and merchandising product. 

  • Follows and complies, or ensures compliance, with established procedures, including Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices. 

  • Maintains, or ensures maintenance of, a clean and sanitary working and shopping environment; maintains equipment in accordance with WFM cleanliness and safety standards. 

  • Performs opening, mid, and closing duties as assigned; ensures accuracy of signs and pricing. 

  • Immediately reports safety hazards and violations. 

  • Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership.

Job Skills
  • Working understanding of Meat team processes and procedures. 

  • Excellent cutting skills with the ability to bread product down into sub-primal and retail cuts.  

  • Extensive knowledge of different cuts and cooking techniques of meat and seafood. 

  • Ability to visually examine products for quality and freshness. 

  • Capable of accessing information about market conditions and communicating this information to customers. 

  • Strong to excellent communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team. 

  • Ability to deliver information in a clear and respectable manner to fellow Team Members, customers, and vendors. 

  • Ability to meet customer service expectations and standards in all interactions with customers, vendors, and Team Members. 

  • Ability to follow directions and procedures; effective time management and organization skills. 

  • Passion for natural foods and the mission of Whole Foods Market. 

  • Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency. 

  • Understanding of and compliance with WFM quality goals.

Experience
  • 14+ months retail experience.

  • 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 8-hour work day: standing/walking 6-8 hours. 

  • Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling. 

  • Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting and reaching. 

  • Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals. 

  • Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit. 

  • Ability to work in a wet and cold environment. 

  • Ability to handle knives and other cutting equipment. 

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. 

  • Ability to use tools and equipment, including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other heavy machinery. 

Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion. 

                                                                                      The wage range for this position is $18.50-$30.20 Hourly, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits offers a wide range of benefits for Full and Part-Time Team Members, including eligibility for a store discount, paid time off, financial wellness, health & wellness support programs, and access to other Team Member perks. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire and may vary based on work location, length of service, and job type (such as regular or seasonal). Click here for benefit details.
                                                                                      At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.
                                                                                      Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.
                                                                                      More detail about Whole Foods Market part of Whole Foods Market, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/1093678-Whole-Foods-Market

                                                                                      Working at Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Perks for frontline workers

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market, via Breakroom

                                                                                      • 20% employee discount

                                                                                      • Paid time off

                                                                                      • Flexible scheduling

                                                                                      • Health insurance with dental & vision

                                                                                      • Growth opportunities

                                                                                      What to expect from working at Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      About Whole Foods Market, in their own words

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      At Whole Foods Market, we understand that the heart and soul of our organization lies in the remarkable people who make up our team. We're more than a grocer; we're a community of diverse, talented individuals coming together to make a positive impact on the world through food.

                                                                                      Company values

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. We’re a purpose-driven company that aims to set the standards of excellence for food retailers. Quality is a state of mind at Whole Foods Market.

                                                                                      Core Values: (1) We sell the highest quality natural and organic foods (2) We satisfy and delight our customers (3) We promote team member growth and happiness (4) We practice win-win partnerships with our suppliers (5) We create profits and prosperity (6) We care about our community and the environment


                                                                                      What Whole Foods Market employees say

                                                                                      Pay

                                                                                      Benefits

                                                                                      Hours and flexibility

                                                                                      Workplace

                                                                                      Get the full story on Breakroom


                                                                                      Whole Foods Market logo

                                                                                      About Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Sourced by ZipRecruiter

                                                                                      Whole Foods Market, Inc., a subsidiary of Amazon, is an American multinational supermarket chain headquartered in Austin, Texas, which sells products free from hydrogenated fats and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.A USDA Certified Organic grocer in the United States, the chain is popularly known for its organic selections. Whole Foods has 500 stores in North America and seven in the United Kingdom As of March 4, 2019.

                                                                                      Industry

                                                                                      Food and beverage stores and retail

                                                                                      Company size

                                                                                      10,000+ Employees

                                                                                      Headquarters location

                                                                                      Austin, TX, US