Meat Packer
Portland, OR · On-site
... 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 Packer
Portland, OR · On-site
... 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 Oregon salary details
$12.71 - $13.33
9% of jobs
$13.33 - $13.96
14% of jobs
$14.01 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.96 - $14.58
22% of jobs
The median wage is $14.77 / hr.
$14.58 - $15.20
16% of jobs
$15.20 - $15.83
14% of jobs
$15.83 - $16.45
0% of jobs
$16.49 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.45 - $17.07
4% of jobs
$17.07 - $17.70
7% of jobs
$17.70 - $18.32
12% of jobs
$18.32 - $18.95
2% of jobs
$18.95 - $19.57
0% of jobs
$12
$15
$19
How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat apprentice in Oregon is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the highest paid apprenticeship?
The highest paid apprenticeships are often in skilled trades such as construction, electrical work, or plumbing, where apprentices can earn competitive wages while gaining hands-on experience. In some industries like technology or finance, specialized apprenticeship programs may also offer higher starting salaries, especially if they require advanced skills or certifications.
Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?
There is no age limit for a meat apprentice, and many programs welcome individuals of various ages. Age should not be a barrier to gaining skills in meat cutting, but some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or specific certifications. Focus on demonstrating your interest and willingness to learn in the field.
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.
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 meat apprentices?
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.
Who pays the most for meat cutters?
Pay rates for meat cutters vary by region, experience, and employer, with higher wages typically found in larger supermarkets, specialty butcher shops, or in areas with a higher cost of living. Skilled meat cutters with certifications and experience tend to earn more, especially in competitive markets or high-end retail environments.
What is top pay for a meat cutter at Costco?
The top pay for a meat cutter at Costco typically ranges from $20 to $30 per hour, depending on experience and location. Experienced meat cutters with certifications or specialized skills may earn higher wages, and the role often involves working in a fast-paced retail environment with the use of meat processing tools.
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:
Sysco rating
7.6
Based on 316 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
115th of 341 rated logistics
Job description
Company:
US1174 Newport Meat Pacific Northwest
Sales Territory:
None
Zip Code:
97230
Travel Percentage:
0
COMPENSATION INFORMATION:
The pay range provided is not indicative of Sysco's actual pay range but is merely algorithmic and provided for generalized comparison. Factors that may be used to determine rate of pay include specific skills, work location, work experience and other individualized factors
RESPONSIBILITIES
Skills
Work Environment
BENEFITS INFORMATION:
For information on Sysco's Benefits, please visit https://SyscoBenefits.com
OVERVIEW:
Sysco is the global leader in foodservice distribution. With over 71,000 colleagues and a fleet of over 13,000 vehicles, Sysco operates approximately 333 distribution facilities worldwide and serves more than 700,000 customer locations.
We offer our colleagues the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, to contribute to the success of a dynamic organization, and to serve others in a manner that exceeds their expectations. We're looking for talented, hard-working individuals to join our team. Come grow with us and let us show you why Sysco is at the heart of food and service.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.
This opportunity is available through Sysco Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates.
US1174 Newport Meat Pacific Northwest
Sales Territory:
None
Zip Code:
97230
Travel Percentage:
0
COMPENSATION INFORMATION:
The pay range provided is not indicative of Sysco's actual pay range but is merely algorithmic and provided for generalized comparison. Factors that may be used to determine rate of pay include specific skills, work location, work experience and other individualized factors
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.
BENEFITS INFORMATION:
For information on Sysco's Benefits, please visit https://SyscoBenefits.com
OVERVIEW:
Sysco is the global leader in foodservice distribution. With over 71,000 colleagues and a fleet of over 13,000 vehicles, Sysco operates approximately 333 distribution facilities worldwide and serves more than 700,000 customer locations.
We offer our colleagues the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, to contribute to the success of a dynamic organization, and to serve others in a manner that exceeds their expectations. We're looking for talented, hard-working individuals to join our team. Come grow with us and let us show you why Sysco is at the heart of food and service.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.
This opportunity is available through Sysco Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates.
About Sysco
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Food and beverage wholesalers
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Houston, TX, US
Year founded
1969