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Meat Cutter Assistant Jobs in Freeport, IL (NOW HIRING)

Full Time Meat Cutter

Freeport, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Job Responsibilities: • Perform meat and seafood cutting, wrapping, and preparation • Maintain meat and seafood cases • Clean and sanitize equipment, cases, work area and sales floor • Assist ...

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Meat Cutter Assistant information

See Freeport, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do meat cutter assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat cutter assistant in Freeport, IL is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a meat cutter assistant?

To thrive as a Meat Cutter Assistant, you need basic knowledge of meat products, food safety standards, and manual dexterity, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meat cutting tools, scales, and safety equipment is typically required, and some positions may prefer food handling certifications. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you excel in fast-paced environments and maintain high standards. These competencies ensure efficient operations, product quality, and a safe workplace for both employees and customers.

What is the difference between Meat Cutter Assistant vs Meat Cutter?

AspectMeat Cutter AssistantMeat Cutter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, but may require certifications or apprenticeships
Work EnvironmentGrocery stores, butcher shops, meat processing plantsGrocery stores, butcher shops, meat processing plants
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with meat preparation, stocking, cleaning, basic cuttingPerforming precise cuts, trimming, deboning, and meat presentation

The main difference between a Meat Cutter Assistant and a Meat Cutter lies in their responsibilities and skill level. The assistant supports the meat department with basic tasks, while the Meat Cutter performs more advanced cutting and butchering. Both roles are essential in meat retail environments and share similar work settings and credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by meat cutter assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Meat Cutter Assistants often face challenges such as working in cold environments, handling heavy or awkward cuts of meat, and maintaining strict food safety standards. Adapting to the fast-paced nature of the job and staying organized are essential for success. To overcome these challenges, it helps to wear appropriate protective clothing, use proper lifting techniques, and stay attentive to hygiene protocols. Open communication with experienced meat cutters and seeking feedback can also accelerate skill development and ensure safe, efficient work.

What is a meat cutter assistant?

Meat Cutter Assistants help professional meat cutters by preparing and organizing meat for processing, stocking, and display. Their duties often include trimming, weighing, packaging, and labeling meat products, as well as cleaning work areas and equipment. They play an essential role in maintaining food safety standards and supporting efficient operation in butcher shops, grocery stores, or meat processing facilities.
What cities near Freeport, IL are hiring for Meat Cutter Assistant jobs? Cities near Freeport, IL with the most Meat Cutter Assistant job openings:

Full Time Meat Cutter

UNFI

Freeport, IL • On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


UNFI rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 49 rated food wholesalers


Job description

Cub Freeport is looking for a dedicated individual to fill a Full Time Meat Cutter position! Meat Cutters at Cub are responsible for cutting, wrapping, preparation and stocking for the meat and seafood department and to ensure a positive shopping experience for customers.
Job Responsibilities:
• Perform meat and seafood cutting, wrapping, and preparation
• Maintain meat and seafood cases
• Clean and sanitize equipment, cases, work area and sales floor
• Assist customers with questions about product locations and suggestions
• Answers department phone calls and responds or refers as appropriate
• Assist in ordering and receiving meat and seafood shipments
• Perform other duties as assigned or delegated
Job Requirements:
• Equipment operation (meat slicer and scale, intercom, telephone, racks, calculator, forklift, meat grinder, cuber, bulker, meat mixer, patty machine, tenderizer, pressure, washer, etc.).
• Able to walk long distances and stand for long periods of time.
• Memorization, reading, writing and math.
• The position requires on-going customer interaction, providing prompt, courteous and accurate service.
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.
• Have the ability to understand and follow verbal or demonstrated instructions; write identifying information; request supplies verbally or in writing.
• Must be able to work shifts varying in length and time, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Must be 18 years of age.
Physical Requirements:
• Equipment operation (meat slicer and scale, intercom, telephone, racks, calculator, forklift, meat grinder, cuber, bulker, meat mixer, patty machine, tenderizer, pressure, washer, etc.).
• Lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Pushing/pulling up to 50 lbs.
• Walking on uneven ground
• Reaching, bending, repetitive motions
• Exposure to cold temperatures and wet surfaces
Schedule:
• Varied weekly shifts including weekends
Benefits:
• Flexible schedule for work life balance.
• Employee discount.
• Weekly pay on a progressive union scale.
• Union benefits for eligible associates including Paid Time Off.
My Cub. My Way.
We provide our customers the best grocery experience period by personalizing our customers' evolving needs with innovation, convenience and by supporting the communities we serve through delivering quality, variety, and fresh groceries. As the needs of our customers evolve, we're dedicated to adapting alongside them, providing quality products, and a welcoming shopping experience.
At Cub we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to our success as an organization, and we strive to create a work environment that fosters respect, fairness, and equal opportunities for all employees. Each team member brings unique perspectives that help us better serve our community.
UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected ground. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the job selection process. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
Compensation:
UNFI anticipates paying the above-referenced pay rate (or within the above-referenced pay range) for this position. Actual Pay, where applicable, will depend on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, training, and any requirements under applicable collective bargaining agreements. UNFI is committed to transparency in pay in compliance with applicable state and local laws.
Benefits:
For Washington positions (or positions that may be performed remotely from Washington), https://www.unfi.com/jobs-more-info-wa.html for Washington-specific paid time off details.
Candidates hired into this position will also be eligible to participate in the following benefits programs: Paid Time Off; Sick Time; paid holidays and parental leave; 401K Program; medical, dental, vision, life, and accidental death/dismemberment insurance; short-term and long-term disability insurance program, Flexible Spending Account and/or Health Savings Account, subject to meeting the eligibility requirements and the terms and conditions of these programs, and subject to any requirements under applicable collective bargaining agreements.
UNFI's compensation, benefits, and paid time off policies are subject to change in the Company's sole discretion, consistent with applicable law. This job posting should not be construed as an offer of employment with certain terms, nor should it be construed as a guaranteed minimum.
Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act .

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