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Butcher Jobs in Madison, WI (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.

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 ...

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Butcher information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$19

$27

How much do butcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for butcher in Madison, WI is $19.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do butchers get paid the most?

Butchers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and strong demand for meat processing, such as certain urban areas or states with a robust food industry. Experience, certifications, and working in larger or specialty meat facilities can also lead to higher pay.

What are some common challenges butchers face when working in a fast-paced environment?

Butchers in fast-paced environments, such as busy grocery stores or meat processing plants, often face challenges like maintaining accuracy while working quickly, ensuring proper portioning, and adhering to strict food safety standards. Balancing speed with precision is crucial to minimize waste and meet customer expectations. Additionally, butchers must stay organized and communicate effectively with team members to keep production running smoothly, especially during peak hours or holidays.

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

To thrive as a Butcher, you need proficiency in meat cutting, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, band saws, and safety certifications such as HACCP are typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and physical stamina are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure quality product preparation, workplace safety, and strong customer satisfaction in a demanding environment.

How much is the salary of a butcher?

The average salary of a butcher in the United States ranges from $25,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and workplace. Skilled butchers with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, and some work early morning or evening shifts in retail or wholesale environments.

What does a butcher do?

A butcher is a professional who prepares and sells meat, including beef, pork, poultry, and sometimes fish. They are responsible for cutting, trimming, boning, grinding, and packaging meat according to customer specifications or store standards. Butchers also ensure meat is stored and handled safely, maintain cleanliness in their work area, and may advise customers on the best cuts of meat or cooking methods. In some roles, butchers may also make sausages, cure meats, or create specialty meat products.

What is the hourly rate for a butcher?

The hourly rate for a butcher typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Skilled butchers with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, especially in high-demand markets or upscale establishments.

What is the difference between Butcher vs Meat Cutter?

AspectButcherMeat Cutter
CertificationsFood safety, meat cutting certificationsOften similar, may require food safety training
Work EnvironmentGrocery stores, butcher shops, meat processing plantsGrocery stores, supermarkets, meat departments
Job ResponsibilitiesBreaking down carcasses, preparing meat cuts, managing inventoryCutting and trimming meat, preparing meat for display or sale
Industry UsageCommonly used in retail and wholesale meat industriesPrimarily retail grocery stores and supermarkets

While both Butchers and Meat Cutters work with meat, butchers typically handle carcass breakdown and larger cuts, often working in specialized shops or processing plants. Meat Cutters focus on trimming and preparing meat for sale in retail settings. The roles overlap in skills and certifications, but their work environments and responsibilities differ slightly.

What Is the Job of a Butcher?

The job of a butcher is to cut or otherwise prepare meat that is intended for sale. Their responsibilities include deciding how to portion a large piece of meat into smaller cuts. They weigh meat, cut portions for retail, arrange these portions in a display case, then label them with price information for customers. The qualifications that you need to become a butcher include cutting skills and knowledge of various cuts of meat. Most of these skills can be learned through on-the-job training.

What company pays meat cutters the most?

Pay rates for meat cutters vary by employer, location, and experience, but large supermarket chains and wholesale meat suppliers tend to offer higher wages. Companies like Costco and Safeway are known for competitive pay and benefits for skilled meat cutters. Experience, certifications, and working in high-cost areas can also influence earning potential.
More about Butcher jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Butcher jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Butcher jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Butcher jobs in Madison, WI? For Butcher jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Butcher jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Butcher jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Butcher jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Butcher job openings:
Butcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Butcher job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,750 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Sustainable Butcher Shop Team

Black Earth Meats

Madison, WI • On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 hours 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