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Meat Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.40 - $24.50/hr

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.40 - $24.50/hr

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer ...

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or desserts for ... Certification of Culinary training or apprenticeship is preferred. Crestline Hotels & Resorts is an ...

Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or desserts for ... Certification of Culinary training or apprenticeship is preferred. Crestline Hotels & Resorts is an ...

Meat Apprentice information

See Washington salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat apprentice in Washington is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.51 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 electrical, plumbing, or construction, 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 compensation, especially for those with prior experience or certifications.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for a Meat Apprentice position, and individuals of any age can pursue apprenticeships in the meat industry. Employers often value skills, work ethic, and willingness to learn over age, making 27 a suitable age to start an apprenticeship in this 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?

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 qualifications do you need to be a meat cutter?

To become a meat cutter, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Skills in knife handling, knowledge of meat cuts, and understanding food safety standards are essential, and some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications in food safety or sanitation.

Is 25 too late to start an apprenticeship?

Starting a meat apprenticeship at 25 is not too late, as many programs accept adult learners and value prior work experience. Apprenticeships typically focus on skill development, and age is generally not a barrier to entering the field or gaining certification in meat cutting and processing.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Meat jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Meat jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Meat Apprentice jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Meat Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Meat Apprentice job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,614 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Harris Teeter

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Harris Teeter rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 847 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 119 rated grocery stores


Job description

Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat products to achieve maximum yield and gross profit according to Meat Standards, cleaning work areas, providing customer service unloading stock, and reloading salvage.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with
disabilities to perform the essential functions. Associates must be at least 18 years of age.
PERSONAL SKILLS Exceptional interpersonal skills. Willingness to participate in and successfully complete required training and to work with the team to increase customer satisfaction and sales.
LANGUAGE SKILLS. Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos [in English]. Ability to write simple correspondence [in English]. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, vendors, and other
associates of the organization who only speak English.
REASONING ABILITY Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Complete Company.s training including but not limited to: new hire orientation, food sanitation, customer service network, safety, food safety, and product knowledge.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The associate is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The associate must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and reaches from 6-72 inches. The associate must frequently lift and/or
move up to 100 pounds and reaches from 6-72 inches. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color, and depth perception.
WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the associate constantly works in a cool environment with an average temperature range of 34-36 degrees Fahrenheit and is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and moving mechanical parts. The associate is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and is frequently exposed to extreme cold. The noise level in the
work environment is usually moderate to loud.

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