Butcher

Overview

This role involves performing tasks related to cutting, preparing, displaying, and selling a variety of meat products. Working at Whole Foods Market entails upholding a positive company image by delivering courteous, friendly, and efficient service to customers and colleagues at all times. Employees must adhere to team and store Standard Operating Procedures and be ready to support related team roles. Commitment to the company’s core values, participation in national, regional, and store initiatives, and compliance with all health and safety laws—including food safety standards—are required.

Key Duties

• Cut, prepare, tray, and merchandise various meats including beef, pork, lamb, veal, and poultry.
• Make specialty meat items such as sausages, oven-ready products, and cured meats.
• Ensure all products meet company quality standards.
• Maintain and manage product sampling programs.
• Monitor products to minimize spoilage and waste.
• Provide mentorship and support to assigned Meat Cutter Trainees.
• Arrive ready and appropriately dressed for all scheduled shifts; attend necessary trainings and meetings.
• Deliver excellent customer service, promptly addressing customer needs and employing suggestive selling methods; respond courteously to phone calls and pages.
• Maximize sales opportunities through proper preparation, storage, rotation, stocking, and presentation of products.
• Follow and enforce adherence to established procedures such as Weights and Measures compliance, sanitation guidelines, and workplace safety protocols.
• Keep the work and shopping environment clean, sanitary, and equipment maintained as per company standards.
• Carry out opening, mid, and closing tasks; verify the correctness of signage and pricing.
• Report safety hazards and violations immediately.
• Perform any additional duties as assigned by local or higher leadership.

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Comprehensive understanding of meat team operations and processes.
• Superior meat cutting skills with ability to break down products into sub-primal and retail cuts.
• In-depth knowledge of meat and seafood cuts and appropriate cooking methods.
• Ability to visually inspect products to assess quality and freshness.
• Capability to gather and communicate market condition information effectively to customers.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with team members.
• Ability to clearly and respectfully convey information to colleagues, customers, and vendors.
• Meet or exceed customer service standards in every interaction.
• Follow instructions precisely; demonstrate good time management and organizational skills.
• Passion for natural foods and commitment to Whole Foods Market’s mission.
• Strong work ethic and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with urgency.
• Understanding and compliance with company quality goals.

Experience Requirements

• At least 14 months of retail experience.
• Successful completion of Whole Foods Market Butcher Apprentice Program or an equivalent training.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Standing and walking for 6 to 8 hours during an 8-hour workday.
• Use of hands for grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling.
• Frequent bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching motions.
• Exposure to FDA-approved cleaning chemicals.
• Working in temperature-controlled environments: below 32°F (freezing), 32-40°F (refrigerated), and above 90°F.
• Capability to work in wet and cold conditions.
• Safe handling of knives and cutting equipment.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Operation of tools and equipment including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and heavy machinery.

Compensation and Benefits

This position pays between $19.50 and $30.20 per hour, based on experience. Whole Foods Market offers a comprehensive benefits program for full-time and part-time employees, including store discounts, paid time off, financial and wellness support, and various staff perks. Eligibility depends on hire date, work location, job type, and length of service.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The company ensures fair employment selection regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, or any protected characteristics. Hiring and promotion strictly depend on qualifications and business needs.

Additional Information

Job duties may vary depending on business, department, or location needs. Performance in the current role will influence eligibility for advancement. Completion of certifications or tenure does not guarantee promotion. The company emphasizes safety, quality, and teamwork as foundational elements of the job.