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Meat Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Harris Teeter

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Your Purpose Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat ... Job Title: Apprentice Meat Cutter Job Code: 033 Department: Meat Reports To: Market Manager ...

RETAIL

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.40 - $24.50/hr

Your Purpose Responsible for efficiently cutting and processing the complete variety of meat ... Job Title: Apprentice Meat Cutter Job Code: 033 Department: Meat Reports To: Market Manager ...

RETAIL

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Manassas, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $25/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 ...

RETAIL

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.80 - $25/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 ...

RETAIL

Full Time Apprentice Meatcutter

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.80 - $25/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 ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher

Gaithersburg, MD

$19 - $30.20/hr

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 ...

The Hoya Hotel at Georgetown

Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

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

Crestline Hotels and Resorts

Cook

Washington, DC

$16 - $21.50/hr

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

Hilton Garden Inn Annapolis

Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...

Crestline Hotels and Resorts

Cook

Annapolis, MD

$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...

All JobsMeat Apprentice JobsMeat Apprentice Jobs in Washington

Meat Apprentice information

See Washington salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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:
Meat Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Apprentice job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% 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

Columbia, MD • On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Harris Teeter rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 863 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 121 rated grocery stores

Job description

Your Purpose
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.
What You'll Do
  • Responsibilities may include interviewing and training associates.
  • Planning, assigning, and directing work.
  • Assist in appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining associates.
  • Addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Supporting Leadership Through the 5 Es
  • As an associate, you are a key part of our success. You represent our values every day and help bring our purpose to life. Through the 5Es, you can lead from any role by showing up with care, pride, and a commitment to doing your best work-for your team, our customers, and the company.
    • Envision: Understand how your job makes a difference. Know the "why" behind your tasks and how they support your team and store goals. Ask questions if something doesn't make sense and speak up with ideas to help things run better.
    • Energize: Bring a positive attitude and energy to work every day. Greet others with kindness, support your teammates, and celebrate wins-big or small. Stay focused, even during busy times, and help lift others up when things get tough.
    • Enroll: Be a team player. Listen, share your ideas, and ask how you can help. Get to know your coworkers and learn what they do. Make sure everyone feels welcome and included by showing respect and care.
    • Enable: Take pride in learning and growing. Ask for help when you need it and look for ways to get better every day. Use the tools and resources available to you. Offer to help train new associates or show someone how to do something the right way.
    • Execute: Do your job well and take ownership of your work. Be on time, follow through, and ask questions if you're unsure. Pay attention to detail, follow safety and quality standards, and take pride in doing things the right way the first time.

What You Bring
  • Associates must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Commitment to unparalleled customer service; excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Willingness to participate in and successfully complete required training and to work with the team to increase customer satisfaction and sales.
  • 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 60 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.
Job Title: Apprentice Meat Cutter
Job Code: 033
Department: Meat
Reports To: Market Manager
Supervises: N/A
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Retail Store Locations
Created/Updated Date: January 2026

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