Butcher Assistant

Position Summary

The Butcher Assistant is responsible for assisting the butcher in the preparation, cutting, and packaging of meats in a clean and efficient manner. This role includes handling and processing different types of meats, maintaining equipment, and ensuring that all safety and hygiene standards are met. The Butcher Assistant will work closely with the team to meet production schedules and uphold quality standards.

Position Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to act courteous to other team members and customers
• Ability to communicate with other team members and customers
• Ability to use hand tools, stand or walk for extended periods, lift heavy items, and work in cold environments.

Education and/or Experience

• High school graduate or equivalency.
• Education of food preparation or meat cutting experience.
• Knowledge of meat preparation techniques and cuts.
• Additional training is often required.

Language Skills

• English is the primary language of the company.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents, technical procedures or governmental regulations.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public.

Mathematical Skills

• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals.

Reasoning Ability

• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instruction furnished in written, oral, and/or diagram form.
• Ability to define and solve problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in statistical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Assist in cutting, trimming, and preparing various types of meat, including beef, pork, chicken, and lamb, according to specifications.
• Help maintain the cleanliness and organization of the processing area and equipment, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Package, label, and store meats in appropriate storage areas to maintain freshness.
• Monitor inventory levels of meat and supplies, assisting with stock replenishment when necessary.
• Ensure proper use of knives, saws, and other butchering tools under the supervision of the Head Butcher.
• Adhere to food safety guidelines, including proper handling, storage, and sanitation practices.
• Support the butchering team with tasks such as portioning meat, grinding, and processing orders.
• Assist with loading and unloading meat products for deliveries or shipments.
• Perform general cleaning duties at the end of each shift, including sanitizing equipment and work surfaces.

Additional Responsibilities

• Comply with OSHA regulatory requirements.
• Adhere to the company’s philosophy, mission, and policies and procedures.
• Support the Company’s goals and objectives.
• Maintains a good attendance record and follows all company rules, policies and procedures.
• Maintains open and effective communications with team members and customers.
• Establishes and maintains excellent interdepartmental and interpersonal relationships.
• Attends departmental meetings and in-services to stay current with the developments of the company.

Interpersonal Skills

• Demonstrates active listening techniques.
• Gains support through effective relationships.
• Treats others with dignity and respect; seeks feedback.
• Demonstrates honesty and integrity always in care and use of company property.
• Demonstrates respect for co-workers and responds to the needs of customers by complying with company policies.