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Certified Meat Cutter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Certified Meat Cutter information

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How much do certified meat cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified meat cutter in the United States is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Certified Meat Cutter, you need expertise in meat selection, cutting techniques, and food safety, often supported by a high school diploma and industry certification. Familiarity with commercial meat-cutting equipment, band saws, and safety protocols is crucial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure product quality, workplace safety, and excellent customer satisfaction in a fast-paced retail or processing environment.

What are Certified Meat Cutters?

Certified Meat Cutters are skilled professionals trained in the safe and efficient processing, cutting, and preparation of meat products for retail or food service. They are knowledgeable in meat grading, portion control, food safety standards, and the operation of specialized equipment. Certification typically indicates that the individual has completed training and passed assessments on proper butchery techniques and safety protocols. Meat cutters may work in grocery stores, butcher shops, or meat processing facilities. Their expertise helps ensure customers receive high-quality, properly prepared meat products.

What is the difference between Certified Meat Cutter vs Butcher?

AspectCertified Meat CutterButcher
CertificationsRequires certification from a recognized organizationMay or may not have formal certification
Work EnvironmentSupermarkets, meat processing plants, specialty shopsButcher shops, grocery stores, meat markets
Skills & TrainingFormal training, knowledge of meat cutting, safety standardsPractical experience, traditional skills
Industry UsageCommonly used in retail and commercial settingsTraditional term, often used interchangeably with meat cutter

While both roles involve cutting and preparing meat, a Certified Meat Cutter has formal certification and training, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. A butcher may have practical experience but might not hold formal certification. The Certified Meat Cutter role emphasizes standardized skills, often in retail or commercial environments, whereas butchers may work in traditional shops with a focus on craftsmanship.

What are some common challenges Certified Meat Cutters face when working in a busy retail or grocery environment?

Certified Meat Cutters in retail or grocery settings often juggle high customer demand, strict food safety standards, and the need for precise cuts to minimize waste. Balancing speed with accuracy, especially during peak hours, can be challenging. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with butchers, deli staff, and managers to maintain inventory levels and ensure displays are well-stocked and visually appealing. Staying updated on proper equipment use and adhering to safety protocols is also crucial for success in this role.
More about Certified Meat Cutter jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Meat Cutter jobs? Cities with the most Certified Meat Cutter job openings:
What states have the most Certified Meat Cutter jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified Meat Cutter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Certified Meat Cutter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,201 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Full-Time Journeyman Cutter Store #700

Northeast Grocery

Corinth, NY โ€ข On-site

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Pay Rate Starting at: Level $22.50/ hr Rates of pay are determined by previous experience and labor contract seniority.
SUMMARY
The mission of all Tops associates is to adhere to the Tops vision of providing a friendly neighborhood store that saves the customer time and money. Meat Cutter is responsible for handling meat and meat products. Cutter will receive, process, cut, trim, scrape, package, tie, wrap, weigh, price, and label meat products Cutter is responsible for setting an example in providing attentive and courteous customer service.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide Remarkable Customer Service when attending to customer needs
  • Must have adequate knowledge of the preparation of different cuts of meat
  • Achievement of financial goals such as sales and gross profit maximization as well as minimization of shrink and supply expense
  • Adhere to company policy through proper processing, preparation, and packaging of product
  • Maintain a 'clean as you go' work area
  • Follow all Federal, State, and Local regulations as well as company policies regarding Meat operations, safety, and sanitation
  • Ensure proper temperatures are maintained in cooler, prep area, freezer, and cases and are in working condition
  • Maintain adequate meat supplies
  • Maintain proper case conditions, including cleaning, stocking, straightening, and rotating product

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Certified Meat Cutter

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Ability to read, write, and perform basic math functions
  • Possess basic computer skills
  • Possess strong communication skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
EQUIPMENT USED
Operation of the following
  • Knives
  • Computerized Scales
  • Bandsaw
  • Patty Machine
  • High Pressure Cleaner
  • Pallet Jack
  • Grinder
  • Cubing Machine
  • Walkie Stacker
  • Wrapping Machine
  • Baler/Compactor

Our Company does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, affection or sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, liability for military service, status as a veteran, gender identity or expression, genetic information, pregnancy, and any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Should your hours and availability better fit the needs of another store or desired shift, we may consider your application for another location or shift.