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Meat Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mackenthun's Fine Foods

Meat Specialist

Waconia, MN · On-site

$14 - $22/hr

Mackenthun's Meat Specialists are responsible for delivering high-quality customer service in the Meat Department while adhering to department standards and processes. They assist customers with meat ...

HyVee

Meat Cutter

Sioux Center, IA

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Topeka, KS · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

HyVee

Meat Cutter

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

HyVee

Meat Cutter

Canton, IL

$16 - $20/hr

Meat Specialist Department: Meat FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function The meat specialist is a fully skilled job that cuts and merchandises all fresh meat commodities. Core Competencies * Partnerships

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Meat Specialist information

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How much do meat specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat specialist in the United States is $16.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Meat Specialist vs Butcher?

AspectMeat SpecialistButcher
CredentialsKnowledge of meat cuts, food safety, and sometimes certifications in meat handlingTypically trained on the job or through apprenticeships, with some certifications in meat cutting
Work EnvironmentGrocery stores, specialty meat shops, or food production facilitiesButcher shops, grocery stores, meat processing plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in retail and food service to denote expertise in meat productsCommonly used to describe meat cutting and preparation roles

The main difference is that a Meat Specialist often has broader knowledge of meat products, including quality, sourcing, and customer service, while a Butcher primarily focuses on cutting, trimming, and preparing meat. Both roles may overlap, but Meat Specialists typically have a more comprehensive understanding of meat beyond just cutting.

What is top pay for a meat cutter at Costco?

The top pay for a meat cutter at Costco typically ranges from $20 to $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and seniority. Experienced meat cutters with certifications or specialized skills may earn higher wages, and Costco often offers benefits and opportunities for advancement.

What is a meat specialist?

A meat specialist is a professional who specializes in selecting, preparing, and processing various types of meat. They often work in butcher shops, grocery stores, or meat processing plants, and may have knowledge of meat cuts, safety standards, and proper handling techniques.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Meat Specialist in a retail setting?

As a Meat Specialist in a retail environment, your day usually involves inspecting, cutting, and preparing various cuts of meat to meet customer and company standards. You'll also be responsible for maintaining proper inventory levels, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, and providing knowledgeable service to customers seeking advice on meat selection or preparation. Collaboration with other departments, such as deli or produce, is common to support promotions and ensure a cohesive customer experience. Attention to cleanliness, organization, and detail is essential for success in this role.

What are Meat Specialists?

Meat Specialists are professionals who have expertise in selecting, cutting, preparing, and handling various types of meat, such as beef, pork, poultry, and seafood. They often work in grocery stores, butcher shops, or meat processing facilities. Their responsibilities include ensuring meat quality, advising customers on cuts and preparation methods, and maintaining food safety standards. Meat Specialists may also be responsible for inventory control and pricing. Their knowledge helps customers choose the best meats for their needs and ensures products meet health regulations.

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

To thrive as a Meat Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of meat cuts, food safety standards, and product quality, often supported by experience in butchery or retail meat sales. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, inventory management systems, and certifications like ServSafe are commonly required. Excellent customer service, attention to detail, and effective communication help build customer trust and ensure compliance with safety protocols. These skills are vital for delivering high-quality products, meeting regulatory standards, and driving customer satisfaction in a competitive market.

What jobs can you get with a meat science degree?

A meat science degree prepares individuals for roles such as meat inspector, quality assurance technician, meat processing supervisor, product development specialist, and research scientist in the meat industry. These jobs often require knowledge of food safety, processing techniques, and industry regulations, and may involve working in processing plants, laboratories, or quality control environments.

How to become a meat specialist?

To become a meat specialist, typically one needs to gain experience in meat cutting, butchering, and meat handling through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Certifications such as the USDA Meat and Poultry Processing Certification can enhance credibility, and knowledge of food safety standards is essential in this role.
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What states have the most Meat Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Meat Specialist jobs include:
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Meat Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,087 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Meat Specialist

Mackenthun's Fine Foods - Waconia

Waconia, MN

$14 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description

Job Summary

Join our meat department! Mackenthun's Meat Specialists are responsible for delivering high-quality customer service in the Meat Department while adhering to department standards and processes. They assist customers with meat and specialty products, ensuring product quality, cleanliness, and a positive shopping experience, particularly for Mackenthun's Homemade Sausage products.


Key Responsibilities

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Stocking:
    • Load and stock refrigerated/freezer cases and shelves, ensuring proper rotation using the First In, First Out (FIFO) method.
    • Check product dates for accuracy and freshness.
    • Maintain well-organized product displays and prepare racks of fresh meat.
  • Pricing and Labeling:
    • Accurately weigh, label, and price meat products.
    • Ensure proper product dates and pricing are applied.
  • Wrapping Products:
    • Wrap meat products from the Meat Cutter efficiently to maintain quality and freshness.
    • Ensure products are securely packaged and properly handled.
  • Customer Service:
    • Greet and assist customers with inquiries about Mackenthun's meats, fish, and specialty items.
    • Prepare and maintain the service case with fresh products.
  • Cleaning & Organization:
    • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the department, including equipment, work areas, and trash disposal.
    • Wash, rinse, and sanitize equipment regularly.
    • Keep the meat cooler and storage areas organized and properly stocked.
  • Additional Duties:
    • Assist with meat cutting, homemade sausage production, packaging, and cleaning in the sausage kitchen.
    • Support the Meat Manager with ordering and other department tasks as needed.
    • Make decisions to ensure Mackenthun's Exceptional Experience for customers and coworkers.


Requirements

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred. Additional info below.
  • Previous experience in a meat department, grocery store, restaurant, or food service environment is a plus.
  • Culinary experience with knife skills preferred.
  • Strong communication skills (reading, writing, and speaking English).
  • Basic math skills for pricing and labeling.
  • Positive attitude, excellent customer service, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
  • Must be at least 18 years old and able to work independently and as part of a team.

Full Time 40 hours/week - 18 or older, mornings/evenings/rotating weekends (6am-8pm)


Working Conditions and Physical Demands
  • Fast-paced, multifaceted environment
  • Capable of lifting and carrying up to 80 lbs and pushing/pulling up to 1500 lbs with a pallet jack
  • Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings.

Benefits Summary for Full Time: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401k
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • Long Term & Short Term Disability
  • Hospital, Critical Illness, Accident
  • Paid Vacation and Paid Holidays
  • Sick & Safe Time
  • Shift differentials for working Sundays & Holidays
  • 10% discount at any Mackenthun's locations
  • Referral bonuses
  • Dietitian services

Apply