1

Butcher Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Butcher

Vienna, VA

$16.50 - $22/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 ...

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 ...

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 Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do butcher trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher trainee in Virginia is $18.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee butcher?

A trainee butcher is someone learning the skills of butchery under supervision, often working in a retail or meat processing environment. The role involves gaining knowledge of meat cuts, safety procedures, and using tools like knives and saws, with training programs sometimes leading to certification or full employment.

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

To thrive as a Butcher Trainee, you need a strong understanding of meat cuts, food safety, and basic knife skills, usually gained through on-the-job training or a food handling certification. Familiarity with equipment such as meat slicers, grinders, and scales, as well as knowledge of HACCP protocols, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for working efficiently and maintaining safety standards. These skills ensure quality product preparation, compliance with health regulations, and a positive customer experience in a butchery environment.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Among apprenticeship trades, electrical and plumbing apprenticeships tend to offer the highest wages, often increasing significantly with experience and certifications. These trades require technical skills, on-the-job training, and sometimes licensing, leading to higher earning potential compared to other apprenticeships like culinary or retail roles.

What is the difference between Butcher Trainee vs Butcher?

AspectButcher TraineeButcher
CredentialsOn-the-job training, minimal certificationsFormal apprenticeship or certification often required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility in meat processing and sales
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with butchering, learning techniquesPerforming butchering, cutting, and customer service

The main difference between a Butcher Trainee and a Butcher is experience level and responsibility. Trainees are in learning phases with supervision, while butchers are fully responsible for meat preparation and customer interactions. Both roles are essential in the meat industry, with trainees progressing to full butchers after gaining experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Butcher Trainees during their initial months on the job?

Butcher Trainees often find the physical demands of standing for long periods and handling heavy cuts of meat to be challenging at first. Additionally, mastering proper knife skills and safety procedures can require practice and patience. Trainees must also quickly learn to follow strict hygiene standards and adapt to working efficiently during busy periods, often as part of a close-knit team. Support from experienced butchers and a willingness to ask questions can help ease the transition and accelerate skill development.

Is 40 too old for an apprenticeship?

For a butcher trainee, age is generally not a barrier to starting an apprenticeship. Many programs welcome mature learners, and skills such as knife handling and meat processing can be learned at any age with proper training and dedication.

What is the hourly rate for a butcher?

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

What are butcher trainees?

Butcher trainees are individuals who are learning the skills and techniques required to become professional butchers. They typically work under the supervision of experienced butchers, assisting with tasks such as cutting, trimming, and preparing various types of meat. During their training, they also learn about food safety, proper use of equipment, and customer service. This position is ideal for those interested in the meat processing industry and seeking hands-on experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Butcher jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Butcher jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Butcher Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Butcher Trainee job openings:
Butcher

$16.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Whole Foods Market rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Whole Foods Market

Based on 1,419 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 48,567 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

  • 89%

    89% say their health insurance is affordable

    say their health insurance is affordable

  • 85%

    85% say they have respectful managers

    say they have respectful managers

Featured by Whole Foods Market, based on 1419 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 $16.50-$30.20 Hourly, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plan benefits, eligibility for a store discount, paid time off and access to other benefit programs. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire. For additional information, visit our Whole Foods Market Careers site: https://careers.wholefoodsmarket.com/benefits.
                                                                                      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/64105-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