Butchers and Meat Cutters
Cut, trim, or prepare consumer-sized portions of meat for use or sale in retail establishments.
Common Job Titles
- Butcher
- Meat Clerk
- Meat Cutter
- Meat Specialist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform precision cutting, trimming, and portioning of meat products using specialized cutting tools and band saws in retail environments, following food safety protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate meat quality, freshness, and grade specifications through visual inspection and adherence to food production standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize daily workflow and inventory management to maintain proper stock rotation, minimize waste, and meet production schedules.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate meat processing equipment including grinders, slicers, and vacuum packaging machines to prepare consumer-sized portions efficiently while maintaining quality standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers to understand their meat selection preferences and preparation needs in retail settings, providing personalized service and product recommendations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply food safety regulations and sanitation procedures during meat handling, processing, and storage operations to ensure compliance with health standards.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate various cuts of meat weighing up to 50 pounds using meat hooks, shackles, and hoists while maintaining proper ergonomic techniques.Developing
- KnowledgeCompute pricing, weights, and yields for meat products using scales and label printers to ensure accurate customer billing.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in customer education regarding cooking methods, storage techniques, and product selection to enhance customer satisfaction and build lasting relationships.Developing
- Hands-onExecute knife sharpening and equipment maintenance procedures to ensure cutting tools remain in optimal working condition for safe and efficient operation.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Butchers and Meat Cutters (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
140,040
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $28,850. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,460. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,960. 75th percentile: U.S. $47,200. 90th percentile: U.S. $57,130. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $28,850 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $57,130 |
| Workers on average earn | $41,300 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.1/5
- Food Production3.9/5
- Production and Processing3.4/5
- Sales and Marketing3.1/5
- English Language2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Financial accounting software
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Air knives
- Anti-griddles
- Auto feed grinders
- Bacon slicers
- Balers
- Beef shackles
- Beef splitting saws
- Bone dusters