Butcher - Full Time

Job Overview

This role involves comprehensive responsibilities related to the cutting, preparation, display, and sales of various meat products, ensuring alignment with the high standards and values of Whole Foods Market. The position emphasizes providing exceptional customer service and complying with all store procedures and regulatory guidelines.

Primary Duties

• Skillfully cut, prepare platters, and merchandise a wide range of meats including beef, pork, lamb, veal, and poultry.
• Produce specialty meat goods such as sausages, oven-ready products, and cured meats.
• Ensure all products meet quality standards set by Whole Foods Market.
• Manage and maintain meat sampling programs.
• Monitor products to prevent spoilage and ensure freshness.
• Provide mentorship and training support to Meat Cutter Trainees.
• Punctually attend all shifts, maintain professional grooming and attire, and participate in mandatory training and meetings.
• Deliver outstanding customer service, promptly respond to customer needs, and utilize suggestive selling techniques effectively.
• Maximize sales through proper preparation, storage, rotation, stocking, and display of products.
• Adhere strictly to established procedures related to weights and measures, health and sanitation, and workplace safety.
• Maintain a hygienic and safe working and retail environment, including regular cleaning and equipment upkeep.
• Perform assigned opening, mid-day, and closing tasks, ensuring accuracy in pricing and signage.
• Report any safety hazards or policy violations immediately.
• Carry out additional duties as directed by store, regional, or national management.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Understanding of meat department operations and procedures within a retail environment.
• Proficient in expertly cutting meat down to sub-primal and retail cuts.
• Extensive expertise in various meat and seafood cuts and cooking methods.
• Ability to visually assess products for freshness and quality standards.
• Capability to gather market information and effectively communicate it to customers.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate well within a team.
• Clear and respectful communication with team members, customers, and suppliers.
• Consistently meet or exceed customer service expectations in all interactions.
• Competency in following directions, managing time efficiently, and staying organized.
• Passion for natural foods and a commitment to Whole Foods Market’s mission.
• Demonstrates a strong work ethic and ability to handle the fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Commitment to meeting Whole Foods Market’s quality standards.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 14 months experience in retail, preferably in a meat department.
• Successful completion of the Whole Foods Market Butcher Apprentice Program or an equivalent training course.*

Physical & Environmental Demands

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
• Capable of standing or walking between 6 to 8 hours during an 8-hour shift.
• Proficient manual dexterity including single-hand grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling motions.
• Work involves bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching frequently.
• Exposure to FDA-approved cleaning chemicals.
• Temperature exposure ranges from freezing below 32°F, to refrigeration between 32°F and 40°F, and areas above 90°F.
• Comfortable working in wet and cold environments.
• Proficiency in handling knives and other cutting tools safely.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Experience using tools and machinery such as box cutters and electric pallet jacks.

Additional Information

This document provides a general outline of essential responsibilities; however, it is not exhaustive. Job duties and requirements may vary by level, location, and business conditions. Advancement depends on performance, qualifications, business needs, and suitability for higher-level roles.

Compensation and Benefits

Hourly pay ranges from $21.00 to $31.50 based on experience. Benefits available to full and part-time employees include store discounts, paid time off, financial and wellness programs, and various other perks. Eligibility and benefits details depend on hire date, location, tenure, and job classification.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Whole Foods Market is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all candidates, without discrimination based on legally protected characteristics.