What is the difference between a butcher and a meat cutter?

A butcher and a meat cutter both cut meat into portions for retail, although their job duties vary based on the needs of the employer. Some smaller businesses may hire a butcher to perform all cuts, while larger supermarkets or butcheries may hire a butcher to break down meat initially, or do the first cut, then divide and classify the meat based on type, cut, and quality. A meat cutter often works with meat that has already been broken down into manageable portions and often cuts retail portions based on customer request. Common responsibilities for either position are to weigh meat, cut portions for retail, and arrange these portions in a display case, then label them with price information for customers.