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Meat Apprentice Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Meat Cutter Apprentice

Manteca, CA · On-site

$19.10 - $26.50/hr

The Meat Cutter Apprentice is responsible for cutting, trimming, and preparing meat products for display and sale. This role involves ensuring high-quality standards and managing inventory. To ...

Meat Apprentice information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$12

$15

$19

How much do meat apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat apprentice in Modesto, CA is $15.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Meat jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Meat Apprentice jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Meat Apprentice job openings:

Meat Cutter Apprentice

Food 4 Less

Manteca, CA • On-site

$19.10 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Food 4 Less rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 122 rated grocery stores


Job description

PAQ, Inc. is committed to building a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. We believe diverse perspectives and experiences strengthen our organization and drive better outcomes for our customers and communities.
The Meat Cutter Apprentice is responsible for cutting, trimming, and preparing meat products for display and sale. This role involves ensuring high-quality standards and managing inventory. To complete the program, the apprentice must complete all required training and perform meat cutter duties.
Essential Functions of the Position:
  • Cut, trim, or grind to prepare meat products according to customer specifications and store standards.
  • Receive, inspect, properly rotate, and store meat upon delivery.
  • Sharpen knives and adjust cutting equipment.
  • Place fat trimmed off of meat in the proper location based on fat content.
  • Weigh and wrap meat for display at the meat counter.
  • Ensure all meat products are properly labeled, packaged, and displayed.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
  • Monitor and maintain inventory levels, ordering products as needed.
  • Store meat in refrigerators or freezers at the required temperatures.
  • Train and supervise meat handling and safety procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Provide exceptional customer service.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge:
  • Basic knowledge of various meat cuts and preparation techniques.
  • Familiarity with retail stocking procedures and inventory management.
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to food handling.

Skills:
  • Novice use of meat-cutting equipment and knife skills.
  • Basic math skills for weighing and pricing.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Effective verbal communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.

Abilities:
  • Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in stocking and labeling.
  • Capability to adjust to changing situations, handle multiple demands, and work with diverse personalities.
  • Aptitude for making informed decisions quickly, often in high-pressure situations.
  • A genuine desire to meet and exceed customer expectations, creating a positive shopping experience.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, including stocking, lifting boxes, and standing for extended periods.

Physical Requirements:
  • Stand and walk for extended periods, typically 8-hour shifts.
  • Lift and carry items up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Perform repetitive motions such as reaching, bending, stooping, squatting, and handling products.
  • Ability to perform tasks that require fine motor skills in handling small objects.
  • Maintain clear communication with customers and team members.
  • Move quickly and efficiently to assist customers and manage workload.
  • Maintain physical stamina to work in a fast-paced environment.

Work Conditions:
  • Work Hours: Vary, with availability required on weekends, evenings, and holidays; typically, 8-hour shifts for full-time employees.
  • Environment: Indoor, climate-controlled, with adequate lighting and ventilation. Relatively damp or humid conditions, including wet or slippery floor surfaces.
  • Primary Work Stations: Work within the grocery store environments, which include various sections such as the sales floor, backrooms, and refrigerated storage areas.
  • Dress Code: Professional and presentable attire as determined by store management, including a name tag, company-issued shirts, hats, jackets, or personal shirts that are black, burgundy, or blue, in good repair, and not faded.
  • Exposure: May be exposed to moving mechanical parts and cleaning chemicals.
  • Noise Level: Usually low to moderate, with occasional loud periods from customers, store announcements, and equipment.
  • Interaction: Constant interaction with customers and team members in a fast-paced retail environment.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience: Over three years of meat-cutting experience is preferred.

Company Employment Policies:
  • PAQ, Inc is an "At-Will" employer.
  • PAQ, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Job Title: Meat Cutter Apprentice
Location: PAQ, Inc, Store Location, On-Site
Reports To: Manager, Meat
Employee Type: Regular, Full-Time
Exemption Type: Non-Exempt
Pay Range:
$19.10 - $26.50
Equal Employment Opportunity
PAQ, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
PAQ, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants throughout the hiring process. If you need an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please let us know.
Work Authorization
All employment offers are contingent upon verification of authorization to work in the United States in compliance with applicable federal laws.
Pay Transparency (California)
The base pay range for this position is listed above. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as qualifications, experience, internal equity, and business need.
Fair Chance Statement (California)
We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act and applicable local ordinances.
Applicant Privacy Notice
To learn more about how we collect, use, and retain applicant personal information, please review our Applicant Privacy Notice at: https://www.paqinc.org/privacyPolicy
Employment-At-Will
Employment with PAQ, Inc. is at will. Either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
Duties Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may change or be reassigned at any time based on business needs.

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