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Head Butcher Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Shavano

Executive Sous Chef

Salida, CO · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Head Chef and ownership. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants to grow ... Bonus: experience with fermentation, preservation, and whole-animal butchery Housing is available ...

Shavano

Executive Sous Chef

Salida, CO

$62K - $80K/yr

... Head Chef and ownership. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants to grow ... Bonus: experience with fermentation, preservation, and whole-animal butchery Housing is available ...

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Head Butcher information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$24

$33

How much do head butcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for head butcher in Colorado is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $28.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do head butchers make a lot of money?

Head butchers typically earn a competitive salary that varies by location, experience, and employer. In general, they can make above-average wages compared to other retail or food service roles, especially with specialized skills and certifications. Salary ranges often reflect the level of responsibility and expertise required for managing meat departments and overseeing butchering processes.

What is the difference between Head Butcher vs Butcher?

AspectHead ButcherButcher
CredentialsTypically requires formal culinary or meat-cutting certifications, extensive experienceOften entry-level or apprenticeship, may have basic meat-cutting skills
Work EnvironmentSupervises meat department, manages staff, oversees quality controlPerforms meat cutting, packaging, and customer service in retail or wholesale settings
Industry UsageCommonly found in supermarkets, butcher shops, and meat processing plantsFound in similar environments, often as a frontline worker

The Head Butcher oversees the meat department, manages staff, and ensures quality standards, requiring more experience and leadership skills. The Butcher focuses on meat cutting and customer service, often with less managerial responsibility. Both roles are essential in meat retail and processing industries, but the Head Butcher holds a supervisory position with broader responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Head Butcher, you need expert knowledge of meat cuts, food safety standards, and butchery techniques, often supported by formal culinary or meat-cutting training. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, inventory management systems, and HACCP certification is typically required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing staff and ensuring quality. These skills ensure operational efficiency, product quality, and compliance with health regulations, which are vital for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by a head butcher, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a Head Butcher, common challenges include managing inventory to minimize waste, maintaining consistent quality standards, and ensuring strict food safety compliance. Balancing customer demands with available stock and training junior staff in proper cutting techniques are also key responsibilities. Effective management involves clear communication with team members, staying updated on industry best practices, and leveraging technology for inventory and order tracking. These actions help maintain efficiency and uphold the reputation of the butcher shop or department.

What are the responsibilities of a head butcher?

A Head Butcher is responsible for overseeing all aspects of meat preparation and butchery within a store, supermarket, or meat processing facility. This includes managing a team of butchers, ensuring high standards of food safety and hygiene, ordering and maintaining inventory, and cutting, trimming, and preparing various types of meat for sale. The Head Butcher also trains staff, develops new meat products, and may interact with customers to provide expert advice or fulfill special requests.

What is a head butcher job description?

A head butcher is responsible for overseeing meat processing, cutting, and preparation in a butcher shop or meat department. They manage staff, ensure quality and safety standards, and may handle inventory and customer service. Strong knowledge of meat cuts, safety regulations, and knife skills are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Butcher jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Butcher jobs in Colorado are:

Head Butcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Butcher job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,423 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Executive Sous Chef

Shavano

Salida, CO • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Us

Shavano is a regionally inspired, ingredient-driven restaurant in downtown Salida, CO — a vibrant mountain town nestled in the Arkansas River Valley, surrounded by towering 14ers, flowing rivers, and endless trails. We're a casual fine-dining space serving family-style dishes rooted in the seasonal bounty of Colorado, with Mediterranean influence and intentional hospitality.

About the Role

We’re hiring a Sous Chef to join our tight-knit kitchen team and work closely with our Head Chef and ownership. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants to grow, contribute creatively, and help run a highly respected kitchen built on quality, discipline, and care.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead service and daily prep with consistency and focus

  • Collaborate on seasonal menus and specials

  • Maintain high standards of cleanliness and kitchen organization

  • Support BOH staff training and team communication

  • Assist with ordering, inventory, and cost control

  • Work cross-functionally with FOH leadership to ensure seamless service

  • Uphold the values and vision of Shavano in all aspects of kitchen operations

Ideal Candidate

  • 2+ years in a kitchen leadership role

  • Strong line skills and understanding of clean, seasonal cooking

  • Respect for product and technique

  • Ability to lead by example in a fast-paced environment

  • Calm, communicative, and solution-oriented

  • Inspired by food culture, craftsmanship, and meaningful hospitality

  • Bonus: experience with fermentation, preservation, and whole-animal butchery

Housing is available for the right candidate.
Growth potential is high for someone looking to step into an executive role over time.

To Apply: Submit your resume and a short note about why you're interested in working with us at Shavano.

More detail about Shavano, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/1037004-Shavano