Meat Cutter
$14 - $16/hr
Requirements/Responsibilities Qualifications: · High school diploma or equivalent preferred. · 1+ years of experience as a meat clerk, cutter, or in a related role; apprenticeships or training ...
Meat Cutter
$14 - $16/hr
Requirements/Responsibilities Qualifications: · High school diploma or equivalent preferred. · 1+ years of experience as a meat clerk, cutter, or in a related role; apprenticeships or training ...
Meat Cutter Apprentice information
See Decatur, AL salary details
$9.24 - $10.94
3% of jobs
$10.94 - $12.64
3% of jobs
$14.27 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.64 - $14.34
20% of jobs
The median wage is $15.82 / hr.
$14.34 - $16.04
28% of jobs
$17.72 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.04 - $17.74
22% of jobs
$17.74 - $19.44
19% of jobs
$19.44 - $21.14
5% of jobs
$21.14 - $22.84
0% of jobs
$22.84 - $24.54
0% of jobs
$24.54 - $26.24
0% of jobs
$26.24 - $27.94
1% of jobs
$9
$16
$27
How much do meat cutter apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat cutter apprentice in Decatur, AL is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What Are the Duties of a Meat Cutter Apprentice?
As a meat cutter apprentice, your duties are to assist a butcher with daily tasks in the butcher’s department of a grocery store, restaurant, or specialty shop. Your responsibilities are to weigh each package to ensure customers receive the right orders, prepare the workspace, and confirm that all equipment (such as slicers and knives) are in proper working order. You also check that you have an inventory of butcher’s paper or wrapping for the day.
What is the difference between Meat Cutter Apprentice vs Meat Cutter?
| Aspect | Meat Cutter Apprentice | Meat Cutter |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | On-the-job training, sometimes certification in food safety | Experience, possibly certification in meat cutting or food safety |
| Work Environment | Learning environment, supervised by experienced cutters | Full responsibility for meat cutting tasks in retail or wholesale settings |
| Employer Usage | Entry-level position in grocery stores or butcher shops | Skilled worker performing meat preparation and cutting |
The main difference is that a Meat Cutter Apprentice is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Meat Cutter is a trained professional responsible for meat preparation. Apprenticeship focuses on learning, whereas the Meat Cutter role involves independent work and expertise.
What is top pay for a meat cutter at Costco?
The top pay for a meat cutter apprentice at Costco typically ranges from $20 to $25 per hour, depending on experience and location. Experienced meat cutters can earn higher wages, especially with additional skills in butchery and customer service.
What are some common challenges faced by Meat Cutter Apprentices when learning the trade?
As a Meat Cutter Apprentice, one common challenge is mastering knife skills and safely handling sharp equipment, which requires both practice and attention to detail. Apprentices also need to quickly learn different meat cuts and understand proper storage and sanitation procedures to ensure food safety. Adapting to the fast-paced environment of a butcher shop or grocery store, especially during busy hours, can be demanding. However, with hands-on training and guidance from experienced meat cutters, apprentices typically gain confidence and proficiency over time.
What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?
Among apprenticeship trades, skilled trades such as elevator installers, power plant operators, and nuclear technicians tend to have the highest wages. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and sometimes longer apprenticeship periods, but they offer higher earning potential compared to other trades like meat cutting apprenticeships.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Meat Cutter Apprentice, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Meat Cutter Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of meat products, knife handling, and food safety, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meat cutting tools, band saws, grinders, and compliance with food safety standards like HACCP is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient meat preparation and contribute to customer satisfaction and workplace safety.
What does a meat cutter apprentice do?
A meat cutter apprentice assists experienced butchers by learning to cut, trim, and prepare meat products according to safety and quality standards. They gain skills in using knives, saws, and other tools, often working in a retail or wholesale meat environment under supervision. The role involves understanding meat cuts, sanitation practices, and safety regulations.
What is a Meat Cutter Apprentice?
A Meat Cutter Apprentice is an entry-level worker who is learning the skills necessary to become a professional meat cutter or butcher. Apprentices typically work under the supervision of experienced meat cutters, assisting with tasks such as cutting, trimming, deboning, and packaging meat products. They also learn about food safety regulations, proper tool usage, and customer service. The apprenticeship period provides hands-on training and can last from several months to a few years, depending on the employer and local regulations.
Who pays the most for meat cutters?
The highest wages for meat cutters are typically found in large retail chains, specialty butcher shops, and supermarkets in regions with a high cost of living. Experienced meat cutters with certifications and skills in meat processing often earn higher salaries, especially in areas with strong demand for skilled labor.
More about Meat Cutter Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Meat Cutter jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Meat Cutter jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Cutter Apprentice jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Cutter Apprentice jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Meat Cutter Apprentice jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Meat Cutter Apprentice job openings:
$14 - $16/hr
Other
Posted 11 days ago
Job description
The Meat Cutter is responsible for preparing, cutting, and packaging high-quality meat products to meet customer demand and maintain department standards. This role ensures proper handling, storage, and presentation of meat products while adhering to food safety regulations and providing excellent customer service.
Key Responsibilities:
· Meat Preparation: Cut, trim, grind, and prepare various cuts of meat (beef, pork, poultry, etc.) according to company specifications and customer requests.
· Product Presentation: Package and display meat products in an attractive and sanitary manner to enhance customer appeal.
· Inventory & Stocking: Assist in receiving, rotating, and stocking meat products to maintain freshness and minimize waste.
· Food Safety Compliance: Follow all health, safety, and sanitation guidelines, including HACCP, FDA, and local health department regulations, to ensure a clean and safe work environment.
· Customer Service: Assist customers with product inquiries, special orders, and recommendations, ensuring a positive shopping experience.
· Equipment Maintenance: Safely operate and maintain meat cutting equipment (e.g., band saws, grinders, slicers) and ensure proper cleaning and sanitation.
· Team Collaboration: Work closely with the department team to meet department goals and support overall store operations.
Qualifications:
· High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
· 1+ years of experience as a meat clerk, cutter, or in a related role; apprenticeships or training programs are a plus.
· Proficiency in meat cutting techniques and knowledge of various meat products.
· Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
· Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
· Good communication and customer service skills.
· Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and work in a cold environment.
· Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Skills:
· Food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe) is a plus.
· Experience with retail merchandising or inventory management.
· Familiarity with operating and maintaining meat processing equipment.
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