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Independent Contractor Meat Butcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pete's Fresh Market

Butcher

Lemont, IL · On-site

Meat & Seafood Team Members are responsible for providing customers with exceptional service. S/he ... Must be detail oriented, self-motivated, and able to work independently or in groups. * Must have ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Butcher

Villa Park, IL · On-site

Meat & Seafood Team Members are responsible for providing customers with exceptional service. S/he ... Must be detail oriented, self-motivated, and able to work independently or in groups. * Must have ...

Performance Food Group

Meat Cutter/Butcher

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Portion cut, slice and package meats/seafood to specific sizes and weights according to work order ... The Performance team delivers delicious food but also goes above and beyond to help independent ...

Bonita Bay Club

Seafood Butcher

Bonita Springs, FL · On-site

A Seafood Butcher is responsible for the hands-on ordering, storage, rotation, fabrication, and ... Must be self-motivated and able to work independently to satisfy members' requests * Must possess ...

Clarks Market

Meat Associate - PT

Snowmass Village, CO · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Previous experience in a meat department, butcher shop, or similar environment is a plus ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Physical ability to perform tasks that ...

Clarks Market

Meat Associate - PT

Telluride, CO · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Previous experience in a meat department, butcher shop, or similar environment is a plus ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Physical ability to perform tasks that ...

CLARKS MARKET INC

Meat Associate - PT

Telluride, CO · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Previous experience in a meat department, butcher shop, or similar environment is a plus ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Physical ability to perform tasks that ...

CLARKS MARKET INC

Meat Associate - PT

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Previous experience in a meat department, butcher shop, or similar environment is a plus ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Physical ability to perform tasks that ...

avec - Highwood

Butcher

Highwood, IL

Requirements: * Perform daily butchery and fabrication of beef, pork, poultry, lamb, and other ... Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision Physical Demands and Work Environment

CLARKS MARKET INC

Meat Associate - PT

Denver, CO · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Previous experience in a meat department, butcher shop, or similar environment is a plus ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Physical ability to perform tasks that ...

avec - Highwood

Butcher

Highwood, IL · On-site

Requirements: * Perform daily butchery and fabrication of beef, pork, poultry, lamb, and other ... Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision Physical Demands and Work Environment

avec - Highwood

Butcher

Highwood, IL

$23/hr

Requirements: * Perform daily butchery and fabrication of beef, pork, poultry, lamb, and other ... Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision Physical Demands and Work Environment

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Independent Contractor Meat Butcher information

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How much do independent contractor meat butcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor meat butcher in the United States is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor meat butcher?

Independent Contractor Meat Butchers are skilled professionals who process, cut, and prepare meat for sale or further processing, working on a contract basis rather than as direct employees. They may provide their services to supermarkets, restaurants, or meat processing facilities, often bringing their own tools and equipment. These butchers are responsible for ensuring meat quality, adhering to safety and sanitation regulations, and sometimes sourcing their own clients. Their independence allows them greater flexibility in choosing assignments and setting rates, but also means they handle their own business operations, such as taxes and insurance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an independent contractor meat butcher?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Meat Butcher, you need expertise in meat cutting, knowledge of animal anatomy, and adherence to food safety standards, usually gained through formal training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with specialized butchery tools, meat processing equipment, and compliance with HACCP or local food safety certifications are essential. Strong attention to detail, time management, and customer service skills help set you apart in this role. These skills ensure high-quality products, safety, and customer satisfaction, which are critical for maintaining reputation and business growth.

What are common challenges faced by independent contractor meat butchers, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor meat butchers often face challenges such as managing fluctuating workloads, ensuring consistent product quality, and handling the business aspects of their work, including client acquisition and billing. Since they are not tied to a single employer, building strong relationships with clients and maintaining a reliable schedule can be demanding. Staying up-to-date with food safety regulations and investing in quality tools also requires ongoing attention. Networking within the industry and adopting efficient time management practices can help overcome these challenges and support business growth.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Meat Butcher vs Employee Meat Butcher?

AspectIndependent Contractor Meat ButcherEmployee Meat Butcher
CredentialsMay require certifications in meat cutting and safetyTypically requires similar certifications, often provided by employer
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, flexible hours, works at various locationsEmployed by a specific employer, fixed hours, in a retail or processing facility
Employer & Industry UsageWorks independently, contracts with butchery businesses or marketsHired directly by a butcher shop or meat processing plant
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for by those seeking freelance or flexible work optionsCommonly searched by those looking for traditional employment

In summary, an Independent Contractor Meat Butcher operates independently, often with flexible hours and multiple clients, while an Employee Meat Butcher works directly for a single employer with set hours. Both roles require similar certifications and skills, but differ mainly in work arrangement and employment status.

What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs?

Cities with the most Independent Contractor Meat Butcher job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Meat Butcher jobs?

The most popular types of Meat Butcher jobs are:

What states have the most Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs are:

Independent Contractor Meat Butcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Meat Butcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,449 per year, or $19 per hour.

Butcher

Pete's Fresh Market

Lemont, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Stock meat cases, including presentation, facing, filling, and organization of all product items as set by department schematics.

  • Respond to customer inquiries, assist with product selection, and handle sales at the meat counter.

  • Receive, inspect, and log products for shipment accuracy, temperature, and quality, and ensure proper storage and rotation of meat and seafood products.

Pete's Fresh Market rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Title
Butcher
Pay Grade
Non-Exempt
Major Department
Meat/Seafood
Minor Department
Meat
Reports to
Department Manager, Store Manager
Job Summary: Meat & Seafood Team Members are responsible for providing customers with exceptional service. S/he is responsible for advising and preparing orders for customers at the service counter or for the self-service displays. They are responsible for the highest level of execution in regards to receiving, unloading, storage, rotating, merchandising and building of displays within their department. Acts as a role model and exemplifies Pete's Four Pillars of Value, Aesthetic, Quality, and Customer Service.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Stocks meat cases; includes presentation of product, facing, filling, and organization of all product items as set by the Meat Department schematics as well as ensuring tag and pricing accuracy.
  • Ensures cleanliness of meat aisles, storage area, and work area for safety; includes cleaning of shelves and products, keeping floors free of liquid spills or water, removing hazardous debris from floor and sweeping.
  • Monitors the rotation of all meat products paying particular attention to expired stock.
  • Responds positively to customer's inquiries and assists customers with purchases, information and product selection while working the meat counter; requires selling and cross selling of products.
  • Receives, inspects, and logs products for accuracy of shipment, temperature, and quality.
  • Requires operating and using equipment such as knives, scales, wrappers, compactors, garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks.
  • Monitors that proper temperatures are being maintained at all stages during the production of meat and seafood items.
  • Cuts, trays, and packages all of the required meat and seafood products required for the day.
  • Maintains the organization, stacking, and rotating of all meat products in the cooler and freezer.
  • Uses knowledge of scales, weight measures, and tares to accurately weigh and label meat products; includes packaging and wrapping product and following the proper dating procedures.
  • Prepares various specialty meat and seafood products using the recipe standards set by Pete's Fresh Market; includes using the appropriate ingredients and proper assembly for product being made.
  • Maintains proper safety practices and care while using all the cutting accessories available in the meat department; complies with the use of mesh gloves while using a knife.
  • Participates in pre-inventory preparation; includes back stock and assuring tags match products.
  • Sustains a high level of product knowledge and product preparation.
  • Walks department regularly to ensure an organized, sanitary, and overall clean appearance at all times.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education and Certifications
  • High School diploma or equivalency with a minimum of two (2) years professional experience; preferred 2-3 years grocery retail experience in Meat department processes and procedures.
  • Journeyman cutter or apprenticeship program completion is strongly preferred.

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Must maintain the highest level of customer service at all times.
  • Ability to adapt to the ever changing high volume retail while working in a cross-functional team environment.
  • Must have the capacity to take initiative when problems arise.
  • Must have advanced attention to detail with the capability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to multitask and have excellent organizational skills is essential.
  • Must be able to support and contribute to team goals
  • Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates.
  • Must be familiar with Health Department guidelines and regulations as they pertain to a grocery retail environment.
  • Must have basic knowledge of math, weights, and measures.
  • Must have skills working with knives, tenderizers, grinders, and general meat machinery.
  • Must have expert packaging and wrapping skills.
  • Ability to cut and weigh various amounts of meat and seafood.
  • Understands COOL compliance for seafood products; what country the various products are coming from.
  • Must have excellent communication skills in order to communicate effectively with customers, store leadership, and fellow-team members.
  • Must be detail oriented, self-motivated, and able to work independently or in groups.
  • Must have the physical ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time, bend and stoop to grasp objects, withstand frequent temperature changes (ex. coolers and freezers), frequently push and pull up to 100 lbs., frequently lift loads up to 50 lbs., and occasionally lift 75 lbs.

Work Environment/ Physical Demands
  • Must have the physical ability to stand for extended periods of time, bend, climb, balance, stoop to grasp objects, kneel, crouch, crawl, frequently push/pull up to 100 lbs., frequently lift and/or move loads up to 50 lbs., and occasionally lift 75 lbs.
  • Ability to enter the coolers and freezers thereby being subjected to and withstanding frequent temperature changes for extended periods of time.
  • Occasional high stress when dealing with systems/customers/staff.
  • Able to work a flexible schedule with various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as determined by the store/business needs and as required to ensure adequate store staffing.
  • Must have reliable source of transportation.
  • The ability to be reached during/after work hours.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities.
Benefits
-Health Insurance Plan (Medical, Dental, Vision)
-401K with employer match
-Supplemental Insurance Plans (Voluntary Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability Insurance, Accident Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance)
-Paid Vacation
-Paid Lunch Break
-Direct Deposit
-Employee Lunch Program and more!
Starting hourly rates will be no less than the local minimum wage and will vary based on things like location, experience, and qualifications. All positions are eligible for Overtime, and some positions will have guaranteed Overtime available.
Hourly rate for Suburban Stores is $15-$20
Hourly rate for City of Chicago Stores is $17.05-$20

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