Butcher

Overview

This role involves various tasks related to cutting, preparing, displaying, and selling meat products while upholding Whole Foods Market's commitment to outstanding customer service and strict adherence to all store, regional, and national guidelines. Team Members must comply with health and safety regulations including food safety procedures and foster a supportive environment aligned with company values.

Primary Duties

• Skilfully cut, prepare, and merchandise a variety of meats including beef, pork, lamb, veal, and poultry.
• Create specialty meat products such as sausages, oven-ready items, and cured meats.
• Ensure all meat products meet rigorous quality standards set by the company.
• Manage and maintain product sampling programs.
• Actively monitor inventory to prevent spoilage and waste.
• Guide and support trainee meat cutters.
• Maintain punctuality, appearance standards, attend all shifts, trainings, and meetings as required.
• Deliver exceptional customer service, addressing customer needs efficiently while using suggestive selling techniques; promptly and politely handle communications via phone and paging systems.
• Optimize sales by correctly prepping, storing, rotating, stocking, and showcasing products.
• Adhere to Weights and Measures guidelines, food health and sanitation standards, and all safe work practices.
• Keep workstations and shopping areas clean and sanitary; maintain equipment according to company cleanliness and safety protocols.
• Complete assigned opening, mid-day, and closing tasks including sign and price accuracy verification.
• Report any safety hazards or violations without delay.
• Perform additional duties as delegated by management at various levels.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong familiarity with meat team processes and operational procedures.
• Proficient in breaking down meat into sub-primal and retail cuts with expert cutting skills.
• Thorough understanding of diverse meat and seafood cuts alongside cooking methods.
• Keen ability to inspect products visually to ensure freshness and quality.
• Competence in gathering and conveying market-related information to customers.
• Excellent communication abilities and a team-oriented mindset.
• Effective and respectful communicator with customers, team members, and vendors.
• Capable of meeting and exceeding customer service expectations consistently.
• Strong adherence to instructions and company procedures alongside efficient time management and organizational skills.
• Passion for natural foods and alignment with Whole Foods Market's mission.
• Robust work ethic suited for fast-paced settings requiring urgency.
• Compliance with Whole Foods Market’s quality standards and goals.

Experience

• Minimum 14 months of experience in retail.
• Successful completion of the Whole Foods Market Butcher Apprentice Program or an equivalent training regimen is required.*
• UK region exceptions may apply.

Physical and Working Conditions

• Capability to lift weights up to 50 pounds.
• Extended standing or walking for 6 to 8 hours within an 8-hour shift.
• Manual dexterity involving single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling.
• Physical activities including bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching are necessary.
• Exposure to FDA-approved cleaning agents and temperature extremes: freezing (<32°F), refrigeration (32-40°F), and heat (>90°F).
• Ability to operate in wet and cold environments.
• Competent use of knives and other cutting apparatus.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Familiarity with handling tools and machinery such as box cutters and electric pallet jacks.

Compensation & Benefits

The hourly pay range is $17.50 to $30.20 depending on experience. Whole Foods Market provides comprehensive "Whole Benefits" that include eligibility for store discounts, paid time off, financial wellness programs, health and wellness support, and other team member advantages. Eligibility for benefits is based on hire date and may vary by job type, location, and tenure.

Additional Information

Whole Foods Market is dedicated to equal opportunity in employment without discrimination based on legally protected characteristics. Advancement requires proven success in current roles, fulfillment of business needs, and qualification for higher responsibility. This document outlines essential duties but is not exhaustive, and duties may change based on business or geographic requirements.