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Meat Apprentice Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

... 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

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?

AspectMeat ApprenticeButcher Trainee
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, some vocational courses
Work EnvironmentMeat processing plants, butcher shopsButcher shops, supermarkets, meat markets
Employer & Industry UsageMeat processing companies, retail butchersGrocery stores, specialty meat shops
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

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.

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 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.

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. Apprenticeship durations vary but often last from several months to a year.
What are the most commonly searched types of Meat jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Meat jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Meat Apprentice jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Meat Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Meat Apprentice job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

(FT) Journeyperson Meat Cutter - Newport Ave Market

Rudy's Market

Bend, OR โ€ข On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Weekend availability is a requirement of this position.

Benefits of working for us!

Full-time employees:

  • Employer paid, employee Medical, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance.

Full-time & Part-time (20+ hours per week) employees:

  • Supplemental Insurance options
  • Paid time off + Paid holidays
  • Additional $1.00 per hour when working on Sundays
  • Additional $0.25 per hour when working before 7AM or after 7PM
  • 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
  • 401(K) retirement plan w/ employer match up to 5%
  • 20% Employee only discount
  • And more!

Summary/Objective

This position is responsible for cutting, packing, wrapping, and merchandising meats and seafood items.


Position Responsibilities (Include but not limited to)

Product Management

  • Assist with effectively ordering all products for the Meat Department; maintain display case inventory at a level that promotes creative and effective merchandising and maximizes sales potential.
  • Participate in determining order quantities and verifying the cost of goods.
  • Participate in maintaining positive store-level vendor relations.
  • Inform the Meat Manager of vendor price changes on approved products as needed.
  • Assist the Meat Manager with determining product selections; perform category management functions as assigned by the Meat Manager or as needed.
  • Consistently achieve all food preparation guidelines, including full compliance with an established recipe program; ensures prepared food consistency, quality, freshness, and portion control.
  • Process all mis-picks, damaged goods, and credits within established guidelines and report information to the Meat Manager.
  • Comply with stocking standards that ensure high product quality, including rotation procedures.
  • Incorporate cleaning with stocking and rotation requirements.
  • Immediately notify the Meat Manager of all short-coded products; ensure adjustments to pricing, signage, and displays are completed as assigned by the Meat Manager.
  • Alert the Meat Manager of incorrect billing issues.
  • Process all invoices and credits for products billed by weight by approved receiving policies and procedures.
  • Participate in physical inventory on a quarterly basis or more frequently if needed.
  • Assist with developing and maintaining product displays that create an exciting marketplace; strive to develop displays that pique customer interest and impact buying trends.
  • Assist the Meat Manager with ensuring effective informational and price point signing is posted for all products.
  • Assist the Meat Manager in developing effective product descriptions and establishing correct verbiage for all related signs/materials.

Operations

  • Adhere to all food safety and sanitation requirements.
  • Complete daily activities as assigned or needed; ensure daily tasks and assignments are accomplished correctly and in a timely manner.
  • Participate in Meat Department staff meetings and store staff meetings as required.
  • Maintain back room, walk-in coolers, and freezer in a safe, clean, and organized manner; store products in a manner that allows easy access to back stock.
  • Use work-related equipment correctly under manufacturer guidelines.
  • Adhere to company guidelines for preventing internal and external loss, including risk management, accident prevention/safety awareness, and loss prevention.
  • Contribute to a productive, enjoyable work environment; foster working relationships that promote positive team morale. Effectively utilizes the Company’s Conflict Resolution programs as needed.
  • Give and receive input/feedback in a solution-based manner.
  • Maintain a safe environment for customers and employees; ensure hazardous conditions are promptly handled appropriately.
  • Effectively use telephone, paging, and voice mail systems professionally.
  • Practice safe procedures when handling and storing cutlery.
  • Fully capitalize upon training, mentoring, and coaching opportunities.
  • Actively identify methods/ways to improve job performance and further contribute to the department as a whole. Self-initiate training and consistently demonstrate accountability.
  • Participate in other team members' training and mentoring processes (e.g., Apprentice Meat, Cutters, and Meat Wrappers) as needed or assigned.
  • Readily accept delegated responsibilities and positively respond to the direction of the Meat Manager.
  • Accurately completes assigned projects within a given time frame.
  • Understand proper customer telephone order procedures and effectively follow department guidelines.

Customer Service

  • Immediately greet all customers; demonstrate genuine enthusiasm and sincerity; customize the approach to meet customer needs and build rapport. Create customer loyalty through individualized service.
  • Anticipate customer needs and questions related to products.
  • Effectively follow through with customers, including item requests, questions, and concerns.
  • Effectively shift gears to meet customer needs; move easily from greeting to providing product information, up-selling, closing the sale, thanking customers, and inviting them back.
  • Effectively assess customers’ needs and appropriately suggest products.
  • Offers customers opportunities to interact with products.
  • Develop customer base by providing excellent customer service throughout the store.
  • Readily inform customers about store layout, services, and activities (e.g., promotions and special products).
  • Ensure all customer and other phone inquiries are handled with appropriate telephone etiquette, effectively providing consistent, friendly, and efficient service.
  • Maintain the Meat Department area in a clean, organized, customer-friendly manner; consistently provide customers with a professional, upbeat atmosphere.


Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position's essential functions.


All duties shall comply with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 555. Should items differ, the CBA will supersede.


Supervisory Responsibility

  • None


Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in a retail food environment with a diverse population and may be exposed to inclement weather.


Travel

  • Some travel may be offered.


Requirements:

Required Education, Skills, and Experience

  • Current Food Handlers permit.
  • Four (4) years of meat cutting experience.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously and produce quality with deadlines. Responds with an appropriate "sense of urgency" when needed.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrates a high level of self-motivation, takes initiative, and problem-solving
  • Possess strong knowledge of food safety.
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Proven ability and willingness to interact and perform all job responsibilities professionally.
  • Understands and adheres to strict confidentiality guidelines.
  • Ability to input and navigate computers and software.
  • Proven ability to meet attendance requirements, dependable.


Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the employee's activities, duties, or responsibilities in this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.