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Meat Apprentice Jobs in Gilbert, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Lobby Grill - Line Cook

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... meat, fish, and poultry delicacies at our Lobby Grill. Key Responsibilities: * Create culinary ... Culinary or apprenticeship program preferred. Experience: Minimum 3 years of cooking experience in ...

Butcher

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $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 ...

Butcher

Scottsdale, AZ

$16.50 - $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 ...

Butcher

Scottsdale, AZ

$16.50 - $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 ...

Cook

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/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 ...

Sauté Cook

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

Saute Cook

Gilbert, AZ

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

Sauté Cook

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

Sauté Cook

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

Sauté Cook

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

... meat, and vegetarian preparations as needed. * Ensure consistent portion control and waste ... Culinary degree or apprenticeship program completion. * Experience with modern cooking techniques ...

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Showing results 1-20

Meat Apprentice information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$11

$14

$18

How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat apprentice in Gilbert, AZ is $14.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $16.30 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 Gilbert, AZ? The most popular types of Meat jobs in Gilbert, AZ are:
What cities near Gilbert, AZ are hiring for Meat Apprentice jobs? Cities near Gilbert, AZ with the most Meat Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Meat Apprentice job openings in Gilbert, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $30,464 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
New Store - Butcher - Part Time - Scottsdale, AZ - Opening Fall 2026

New Store - Butcher - Part Time - Scottsdale, AZ - Opening Fall 2026

Whole Foods Market

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$16.50 - $30.20/hr

Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Whole Foods Market rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Whole Foods Market

Based on 1,446 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.1

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.1 out of 10

Grocery stores average

Based on 49,653 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Whole Foods Market

  • 98%

    98% say they get paid time off

    say they get paid time off

  • 88%

    88% say their health insurance is affordable

    say their health insurance is affordable

  • 86%

    86% say they have respectful managers

    say they have respectful managers

Featured by Whole Foods Market, based on 1446 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

A career at Whole Foods Market is more than just the work you do- it's about your personal growth and creating meaningful change. Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. That means improving how people eat, funding grants for school gardens, providing access to fresh and healthy food to people living within food deserts, alleviating poverty in developing countries, and so much more. Working with us means you are making a difference within your community and beyond. We aren't just a grocery store: we're world-changers. And with your help, we will continue to set the standards of excellence and revolutionize the grocery industry.

Performs duties relating to the cutting, preparation, display, and selling of meat products. All Whole Foods Market Retail jobs require ensuring a positive company image by providing courteous, friendly, and efficient service to customers and Team Members at all times. All positions must be performed in accordance with team and store Standard Operating Procedures. Further, Team Members must be prepared and able to perform the duties inherent in other Team Member job descriptions. All positions must strive to support WFM core values and goals, promote national, regional, and store programs and initiatives, and ensure adherence to all applicable health and safety regulations including Food Safety and regulatory duties required in the department. Job Responsibilities
  • Cuts, platters, and merchandises products (beef, pork, lamb, veal, poultry). 

  • Prepares specialty meat merchandise (i.e. sausage, oven ready products, and cured meats). 

  • Checks product to make sure it meets WFM quality standards. 

  • Maintains sampling program. 

  • Monitors and assists in preventing spoilage. 

  • Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). 

  • Arrives to work station on time, appropriately groomed, dressed and ready to work; works all scheduled shifts and attends required trainings and meetings. 

  • Provides excellent customer service, addresses needs of customers in a timely and effective manner and models suggestive selling techniques; answers phones and pages promptly and courteously. 

  • Maximizes sales potential through effective and proper procedures for prepping, storing, rotating, stocking, and merchandising product. 

  • Follows and complies, or ensures compliance, with established procedures, including Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices. 

  • Maintains, or ensures maintenance of, a clean and sanitary working and shopping environment; maintains equipment in accordance with WFM cleanliness and safety standards. 

  • Performs opening, mid, and closing duties as assigned; ensures accuracy of signs and pricing. 

  • Immediately reports safety hazards and violations. 

  • Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership.

Job Skills
  • Working understanding of Meat team processes and procedures. 

  • Excellent cutting skills with the ability to bread product down into sub-primal and retail cuts.  

  • Extensive knowledge of different cuts and cooking techniques of meat and seafood. 

  • Ability to visually examine products for quality and freshness. 

  • Capable of accessing information about market conditions and communicating this information to customers. 

  • Strong to excellent communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team. 

  • Ability to deliver information in a clear and respectable manner to fellow Team Members, customers, and vendors. 

  • Ability to meet customer service expectations and standards in all interactions with customers, vendors, and Team Members. 

  • Ability to follow directions and procedures; effective time management and organization skills. 

  • Passion for natural foods and the mission of Whole Foods Market. 

  • Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency. 

  • Understanding of and compliance with WFM quality goals.

Experience
  • 14+ months retail experience.

  • Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.*

    * UK Exceptions may apply
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds. 

  • In an 8-hour work day: standing/walking 6-8 hours. 

  • Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling. 

  • Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting and reaching. 

  • Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals. 

  • Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit. 

  • Ability to work in a wet and cold environment. 

  • Ability to handle knives and other cutting equipment. 

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. 

  • Ability to use tools and equipment, including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other heavy machinery. 

Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion. 

                                                                                      The wage range for this position is $16.50-$30.20 Hourly, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits offers a wide range of benefits for Full and Part-Time Team Members, including eligibility for a store discount, paid time off, financial wellness, health & wellness support programs, and access to other Team Member perks. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire and may vary based on work location, length of service, and job type (such as regular or seasonal). Click here for benefit details.
                                                                                      At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.
                                                                                      Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.

                                                                                      Working at Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Perks for frontline workers

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market, via Breakroom

                                                                                      • 20% employee discount

                                                                                      • Paid time off

                                                                                      • Flexible scheduling

                                                                                      • Health insurance with dental & vision

                                                                                      • Growth opportunities

                                                                                      What to expect from working at Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      About Whole Foods Market, in their own words

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      At Whole Foods Market, we understand that the heart and soul of our organization lies in the remarkable people who make up our team. We're more than a grocer; we're a community of diverse, talented individuals coming together to make a positive impact on the world through food.

                                                                                      Company values

                                                                                      From Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. We’re a purpose-driven company that aims to set the standards of excellence for food retailers. Quality is a state of mind at Whole Foods Market.

                                                                                      Core Values: (1) We sell the highest quality natural and organic foods (2) We satisfy and delight our customers (3) We promote team member growth and happiness (4) We practice win-win partnerships with our suppliers (5) We create profits and prosperity (6) We care about our community and the environment


                                                                                      What Whole Foods Market employees say

                                                                                      Pay

                                                                                      Benefits

                                                                                      Hours and flexibility

                                                                                      Workplace

                                                                                      Get the full story on Breakroom


                                                                                      Whole Foods Market logo

                                                                                      About Whole Foods Market

                                                                                      Sourced by ZipRecruiter

                                                                                      Whole Foods Market, Inc., a subsidiary of Amazon, is an American multinational supermarket chain headquartered in Austin, Texas, which sells products free from hydrogenated fats and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.A USDA Certified Organic grocer in the United States, the chain is popularly known for its organic selections. Whole Foods has 500 stores in North America and seven in the United Kingdom As of March 4, 2019.

                                                                                      Industry

                                                                                      Food and beverage stores and retail

                                                                                      Company size

                                                                                      10,000+ Employees

                                                                                      Headquarters location

                                                                                      Austin, TX, US