... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
... apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or ... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ...
Meat Apprentice information
See Illinois salary details
$11.65 - $12.22
9% of jobs
$12.22 - $12.79
14% of jobs
$12.84 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.79 - $13.36
22% of jobs
The median wage is $13.53 / hr.
$13.36 - $13.93
16% of jobs
$13.93 - $14.51
14% of jobs
$14.51 - $15.08
0% of jobs
$15.11 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$15.08 - $15.65
4% of jobs
$15.65 - $16.22
7% of jobs
$16.22 - $16.79
12% of jobs
$16.79 - $17.36
2% of jobs
$17.36 - $17.94
0% of jobs
$11
$14
$17
How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat apprentice in Illinois is $14.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a meat apprentice?
Meat apprentices are entry-level workers who learn the skills and techniques necessary to become professional butchers. They work under the supervision of experienced butchers, learning how to cut, trim, and prepare various types of meat. Meat apprentices also gain knowledge about food safety, proper handling of tools, and customer service within a meat department or butcher shop. This role is typically the first step toward a career as a certified butcher.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a meat apprentice, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Meat Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of meat cuts, food safety, and proper handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as band saws, grinders, and scales, as well as knowledge of safety standards like HACCP, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help you excel in a team-oriented, customer-facing environment. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure product quality, maintain safety standards, and support effective customer service in a meat department.
What are some common challenges faced by meat apprentices during their training period?
Meat Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering the safe and efficient use of cutting tools, learning to identify different cuts of meat, and maintaining strict hygiene standards in a fast-paced environment. Adapting to early or long shifts, especially in large grocery stores or butcher shops, can also be demanding. However, with guidance from experienced butchers and a willingness to learn, most apprentices quickly build confidence and proficiency in their skills.
What is the difference between Meat Apprentice vs Butcher Trainee?
| Aspect | Meat Apprentice | Butcher Trainee |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma, on-the-job training | High school diploma, some vocational courses |
| Work Environment | Meat processing plants, butcher shops | Butcher shops, supermarkets, meat markets |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Meat processing companies, retail butchers | Grocery stores, specialty meat shops |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
The Meat Apprentice and Butcher Trainee roles are similar entry-level positions focused on learning meat cutting and processing skills. Both typically require on-the-job training and are found in meat processing plants or retail environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers and regions, but both serve as foundational steps toward becoming a skilled butcher.
How to become a meat apprentice?
To become a meat apprentice, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must apply to a butcher shop or meat processing facility. On-the-job training is common, and developing skills in meat cutting, safety, and sanitation is essential; some programs may also require relevant certifications or licenses. Apprenticeships can last from several months to a few years, providing hands-on experience under supervision.
What are the most commonly searched types of Meat jobs in Illinois?
The most popular types of Meat jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Meat Apprentice jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Meat Apprentice job openings:
Full-time
Re-posted 27 days ago
Job description
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Tasks would include boxing and scanning
- Assist machine operators in running machines and orders through the machine properly (apprentice type situation)
Skills
- Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or operational goals
- Commitment to work until the job is completed
- Interacts well with others
- Good team player
- Results-oriented and detail-oriented
- Customer-service oriented
- Able to work safely with machinery, some heavy lifting required
- Standing for long periods of time, twisted torso all day long, basic ability to read tickets and special requests, ability to recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and writing skills, able to work in a cold/wet environment fast-paced environment
- Ability to work in a paced environment
- Ability to be trained and learn new skills
Work Environment
- Heavy lifting activities for this employee
- Standing, walking and reaching are regular activities for this employee.
- The ability to touch, feel, manipulate fingers and limbs to operate various processing and material handling equipment is necessary
- The ability to smell is required, in order to detect levels of wholesomeness and spoilage
- This position requires the candidate to be in refrigerated processing and warehouse areas. These areas are cold and wet and exposure to moving machinery and sharp surfaces are a regular occurrence.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required
Preferred
Job Industries
- Other