Job Title: Butcher / Meat Cutter
Department: Meat Processing / Butchery
Reports To: Daily Operations Manager
Position Summary:
The Butchers/Meat Cutters work under the supervision of the Daily Operations Manager and are responsible for the humane slaughter of animals, processing carcasses, and preparing both standard and specialty cuts of meat. This role ensures all meat products meet quality, safety, and customer specifications while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Perform humane slaughtering of animals according to regulatory and company guidelines.
Clean and prepare meats for processing or cutting.
Cut carcasses, sides, and quarters into standard and specialty cuts.
Trim, debone, and portion meats according to specifications.
Wrap, package, label, and weigh prepared meats accurately for sale.
Slice cooked meats and prepare customer orders according to instructions.
Receive carcasses and accurately record customer information, including name, phone number, and cutting directions.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of butcher shop, equipment, and workstations.
Perform other duties as assigned to support meat processing and butchery operations.
Safety Responsibilities:
Follow all company and regulatory safety procedures when handling live animals, carcasses, and sharp equipment.
Ensure proper use and maintenance of knives, saws, slicers, and other butchering tools.
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required or desired, including cut-resistant gloves, aprons, and steel-toe boots.
Identify and report safety hazards, spills, or broken equipment immediately.
Maintain a clean and organized work area to prevent accidents.
Comply with all food safety and hygiene regulations, including proper meat storage, handling, and disposal.
Respectful use of farm machinery and equipment, both manual and mechanical, is expected at all times.
Key Results Indicators (KRIs):
Accuracy of Cuts & Orders: A high percentage of cuts and customer orders completed correctly without waste or errors.
Yield Efficiency: Meat yield percentages meet or exceed company standards.
Customer Satisfaction: Positive feedback on order fulfillment and quality of cuts.
Sanitation Compliance: Consistently passing internal and regulatory inspections.
Safety Compliance: Zero preventable workplace injuries and proper use of PPE.
Inventory Management: Minimal loss or spoilage due to proper storage and handling.
Working Conditions:
Work involves standing for extended periods, handling sharp tools and equipment, and lifting heavy items.
May require weekend, holiday, or early morning shifts.
Exposure to cold environments, blood, and raw meat products.
What Does Winning Look Like in This Role
A successful Butcher / Meat Cutter consistently demonstrates:
Precision & Quality in Cuts:
Standard and specialty cuts are accurate, consistent, and meet customer or company specifications.
Minimal waste and maximum yield from carcasses, sides, and quarters.
Safe & Responsible Work Practices:
Follows all safety protocols, including proper handling of knives, machinery, and live animals.
Maintains a clean, organized, and hazard-free workspace.
Respectful use of farm machinery and equipment, both manual and mechanical.
Efficiency & Productivity:
Customer orders and cutting tasks are completed on time, without compromising quality.
Meat is prepared, packaged, and labeled efficiently for sale or delivery.
Inventory is handled carefully to minimize loss or spoilage.
Customer Satisfaction:
Orders meet or exceed customer expectations in accuracy, portioning, and presentation.
Provides knowledgeable and friendly service, advising customers on cuts, preparation, and cooking methods.
Team & Operational Contribution:
Works seamlessly under the supervision of the Daily Operations Manager.
Supports overall butcher shop operations and participates actively in cleaning and maintenance.
Open to performing other duties as assigned, helping the team succeed.
Compliance & Standards:
Consistently meets food safety, hygiene, and regulatory standards.
Passes internal and external inspections with minimal issues.
In short, winning looks like:
High-quality cuts, safe and efficient operations, satisfied customers, well-maintained equipment, and a clean, productive workspace.