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Meat Cutter Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Meat Cutter

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

The Meat Cutter is responsible for keeping store meat cases stocked and clean during business hours. They are required to assist customers as needed and maintain a friendly, energetic demeanor. This ...

Meat Cutter

Plymouth, MN

$16 - $21.25/hr

The Meat Cutter is responsible for keeping store meat cases stocked and clean during business hours. They are required to assist customers as needed and maintain a friendly, energetic demeanor. This ...

Meat Cutter

Plymouth, MN

$16 - $21.25/hr

The Meat Cutter is responsible for keeping store meat cases stocked and clean during business hours. They are required to assist customers as needed and maintain a friendly, energetic demeanor. This ...

Meat Cutter

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

The Meat Cutter is responsible for keeping store meat cases stocked and clean during business hours. They are required to assist customers as needed and maintain a friendly, energetic demeanor. This ...

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Marshall, MN · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Marshall, MN · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and ... Conducts cutting tests. * Orders new items (not strictly for replenishment). * Monitors ...

Meat Cutter

Litchfield, MN · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Prior experience in a Meat Cutter, Apprentice role strongly preferred. * Ability to read, write, comprehend, and interpret documents * Basic mathematical skills * Suggestive Selling/Knowledge of ...

Meat Cutter

Litchfield, MN · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Prior experience in a Meat Cutter, Apprentice role strongly preferred. * Ability to read, write, comprehend, and interpret documents * Basic mathematical skills * Suggestive Selling/Knowledge of ...

Meat Cutter

Litchfield, MN · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Prior experience in a Meat Cutter, Apprentice role strongly preferred. * Ability to read, write, comprehend, and interpret documents * Basic mathematical skills * Suggestive Selling/Knowledge of ...

Meat Cutter

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

Cuts, trims and prepares raw meat for sale using saws, knifes, grinder, and tenderizer. For additional information about pay ranges, click here. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including ...

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Showing results 1-20

Meat Cutter information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do meat cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat cutter in Minnesota is $17.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do meat cutters get paid the most?

Meat cutters tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and in larger retail or wholesale establishments. States or areas with a strong meat processing industry or higher demand for skilled labor often offer better pay rates for meat cutters. Experience, certifications, and working in unionized environments can also influence salary levels.

What is the difference between Meat Cutter vs Butcher?

AspectMeat CutterButcher
CredentialsNone required, but some certifications availableTypically same as Meat Cutter, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentSupermarkets, grocery stores, meat processing plantsButcher shops, grocery stores, meat markets
Job DutiesCutting, trimming, preparing meat for saleButchering, custom cuts, meat preparation
Industry UsageCommonly used in retail and food serviceMore traditional, often associated with specialty shops

While both Meat Cutters and Butchers work with meat preparation, Meat Cutters typically focus on cutting and preparing meat in retail settings, often following specific guidelines. Butchers may perform more custom butchering and work in specialized shops. The roles overlap significantly, but the term "Butcher" often implies a more traditional or artisanal approach.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Meat Cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Meat Cutter, you need expertise in meat preparation, knife skills, and a solid understanding of food safety regulations, often gained through on-the-job training or a high school diploma. Familiarity with commercial meat cutting equipment, scales, and safety systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong customer service abilities set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring product quality, workplace safety, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced retail or processing environment.

What does a meat cutter do?

A meat cutter is responsible for cutting, trimming, boning, and preparing various types of meat for sale or further processing. They use specialized tools and equipment to portion meat according to customer or business specifications, ensure product quality, and maintain cleanliness and safety standards in their work area. Meat cutters often work in grocery stores, butcher shops, or meat processing plants, and may also advise customers on meat selection and cooking methods.

What are some common challenges faced by meat cutters in maintaining product quality and safety?

Meat cutters often encounter challenges related to maintaining strict food safety standards while working efficiently. This includes ensuring all equipment is properly sanitized, monitoring temperatures to prevent spoilage, and following precise cutting techniques to avoid cross-contamination. Additionally, handling heavy carcasses and sharp tools can pose physical risks, so proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential. Staying updated on best practices and regularly communicating with team members helps ensure both product quality and a safe working environment.

Is a meat cutter a hard job?

A meat cutter job involves working with sharp knives and meat processing equipment, requiring physical strength, attention to safety, and precision. The work can be physically demanding and may involve early or long hours, but with proper training and experience, it becomes manageable. Overall, it can be considered moderately challenging depending on individual skills and work environment.

How much do meat cutters make a year?

Meat cutters typically earn an average annual salary of around $25,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Experienced meat cutters with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and some work full-time in retail or wholesale environments with benefits.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

For a Meat Cutter, earning $700 a day typically requires working in high-volume or specialty meat processing facilities, often with overtime, weekend shifts, or advanced skills. Such pay rates are more common in supervisory roles, union positions, or in regions with higher living costs, and may also depend on experience and certifications. Most standard meat cutter positions pay less, but top earners in the field can reach or exceed this daily rate with additional responsibilities or hours.

What Does a Meat Cutter Do?

A meat cutter, also known as a butcher, is a food service professional who specializes in breaking down whole animals or large pieces meats into the various cuts and portions most often used in homes and restaurants. Meat cutters meticulously clean, maintain, and sharpen the knives and tools needed for this precision work. They also are very knowledgeable about food safety rules and regulations, maintaining compliance with health codes at all times.

What are the most commonly searched types of Meat Cutter jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Meat Cutter jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Meat Cutter jobs in Minnesota? For Meat Cutter jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Meat Cutter jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Meat Cutter job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Meat Cutter jobs in MN? For Meat Cutter jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Meat Cutter job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,455 per year, or $17 per hour.
Meat Cutter

Meat Cutter

Fresh Thyme

Plymouth, MN • On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Fresh Thyme rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 119 rated grocery stores


Job description

If you're someone who has a genuine desire to help people live better and healthier lives, join us as we work to be a trusted resource in our communities, offering real people, real food at real affordable prices across the Midwest. If you are ready to immerse yourself in an environment, that helps shoppers naturally, intuitively, and enjoyably find real, honest, affordable goodness to meet them wherever they are on their wellness journey, we'd like to hear from you. Join us to begin YOUR journey and be a part of the Fresh Thyme Market Team!
Fresh Thyme Rewards
  • Weekly pay
  • Scheduling flexibility
  • Paid parental leave
  • Team member discount
  • Career growth opportunities

Are you passionate about the retail grocery market and organic products? Are you a leader? Are you ready to join one of the fastest growing companies in the retail grocery market? If so, Fresh Thyme Farmers Market is the place for you! Our unique business model, fast paced and growing environment, promote from within culture, and excellent benefits make Fresh Thyme the best employer in the grocery market. Careers have been blooming at Fresh Thyme since our inception in 2002 - yours should be no different!
The Meat Cutter is responsible for keeping store meat cases stocked and clean during business hours. They are required to assist customers as needed and maintain a friendly, energetic demeanor. This position requires adhering to all procedural guidelines set by the Meat Department.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
• Stocks meat cases; includes presentation of product, facing, filling, and organization of all product items as set by the Meat Department schematics as well as ensuring tag and pricing accuracy.
• Ensures cleanliness of meat aisles, storage area, and work area for safety; includes cleaning of shelves and products, keeping floors free of liquid spills or water, removing hazardous debris from floor and sweeping.
• Monitors the rotation of all meat products paying particular attention to expired stock.
• Responds positively to customer's inquiries and assists customers with purchases, information and product selection while working the meat counter; requires selling and cross selling of products.
• Receives, inspects, and logs products for accuracy of shipment, temperature, and quality.
• Requires operating and using equipment such as knives, scales, wrappers, compactors, garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks.
• Monitors that proper temperatures are being maintained at all stages during the production of meat and seafood items.
• Cuts, trays, and packages all of the required meat and seafood products required for the day.
• Maintains the organization, stacking, and rotating of all meat products in the cooler and freezer.
• Uses knowledge of scales, weight measures, and tares to accurately weigh and label meat products; includes packaging and wrapping product and following the proper dating procedures.
• Prepares various specialty meat and seafood products using the recipe standards set by Fresh Thyme; includes using the appropriate ingredients and proper assembly for product being made.
• Maintains proper safety practices and care while using all the cutting accessories available in the meat department; complies with the use of mesh gloves while using a knife.
• Participates in pre-inventory preparation; includes back stock and assuring tags match products.
• Sustains a high level of product knowledge and product preparation.
• Walks department regularly to ensure an organized, sanitary, and overall clean appearance at all times.
• Other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience
• High school diploma or equivalency degree.
• Must have a minimum of 2 years professional experience.
• Preferred 2-3 years grocery retail experience in Meat department processes and procedures.
• Previous experience in a natural foods industry is a plus.
• Journeyman cutter or apprenticeship program completed preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Must maintain the highest level of customer service at all times.
• Ability to adapt to the ever changing high volume retail while working in a cross-functional team environment.
• Must have the capacity to take initiative when problems arise.
• Flexibility to adapt in a variety of situations.
• Must have advanced attention to detail with the capability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills for dealing cross functionally with peers and senior management.
• Ability to multitask and have excellent organizational skills is essential.
• Must be able to support and contribute to team goals
• Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates.
• Must be familiar with Health Department guidelines and regulations as they pertain to a grocery retail environment.
• Must have basic knowledge of math, weights, and measures.
• Must have skills working with knives, tenderizers, grinders, and general meat machinery.
• Must have expert packaging and wrapping skills.
• Ability to cut and weigh various amounts of meat and seafood.
• Understands COOL compliance for seafood products; what country the various products are coming from.
Job Function Analysis
Physical Demands
• Sit Rarely 1-2 hours
• Stand Continuously 1-8 hours
• Walk Continuously 2-8 hours
• Drive Frequently 2-4 hours
• Balance Frequently 34-66%
• Bend Occasionally 1-33%
• Climb (2-6 ft) Occasionally 1-33%
• Crawl Occasionally 1-33%
• Crouch/Squat Occasionally 1-33%
• Kneel Occasionally 1-33%
• Reach (forward & overhead) Frequently 34-66%
• Twist (45 degrees at waist) Occasionally 1-33%
Lifting/Carrying
• 0-10 lbs. Occasionally 1-33%
• 11-25 lbs. Occasionally 1-33%
• 26-50 lbs. Occasionally 1-33%
• 51-100 lbs. Never 0%
Repetitive Motion
Right & Left Grasping Frequently 34-66%
Fine Manipulation Occasionally 1-33%
Pushing and Pulling Occasionally 1-33%
Lower extremities Never 0%
Environmental Conditions:
Some extreme temperatures are possible. Some ventilation and exhaust fans.
At Fresh Thyme, our team members Thrive. We offer competitive compensation, incentive programs, and recognition programs that allows our most successful team members to be rewarded for the results they consistently drive and for being passionate about working safely to ensure 200% accountability - 100% accountability for self and 100% accountability for your fellow team members. Therefore, we are committed to offering competitive pay that reflects market standards and ensures consistency within our organization.
This job generally starts between the rates below with raises occurring in accordance with the Fresh Thyme Market plan policy. The actual rate offered will meet or surpass the legal wage requirement for the job's location.
$20.00 - $22.50
Our team members Thrive because we are committed to the whole person. Not only do we offer a comprehensive benefits package for our full time team members that includes medical, dental, and life insurance, but we also offer a variety of programs designed to support our part time members as well. ALL Fresh Thyme team members enjoy paid parental leave, our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, and our 401(k) plan with an employer match. We are dedicated to creating a work environment that promotes long-term health and financial security. Come Thrive with us!

What Fresh Thyme employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Fresh Thyme logo

About Fresh Thyme

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We have a simple mission at Fresh Thyme: to improve the way our communities eat by offering fresh and healthy food at amazing values. Our food doesn't only look, smell and taste good, but it's good for you, too. Get all of the nutrients you need and all the flavors you crave while supporting trusted partners, brands and farmers. Shop confidently and let your appetite guide the way knowing that every item in our store has been hand-selected with care. We pride ourselves on offering an assortment of healthy options backed by our commitment to quality. To us, more variety means a more complete basket, more ways of making meals and more ways to support our communities.In our store, you’ll find a large assortment of all-natural and organic foods, alongside trusted national brands and local favorites - all at everyday low prices.

Industry

Retail

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Downers Grove, IL, US

Year founded

2012