Overview
Meat cutters and fishmongers prepare and package pieces of meat, poultry and fish that are sold by food retailers or wholesalers. They use tools to cut, trim and package meat, poultry and fish on a daily basis. They are employed in grocery stores, fish stores, or they may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Grind meats and slice cooked meats using powered grinders and slicing machines
Cut, weigh, package, label and price meat, meat products, fish and seafood for sale
Suggest complementary and/or alternative meat or fish products to consumers
Inspect the quality of meat, fish and seafood, expiry dates and ensure proper product rotation
Ensure the maintenance of equipment, displays and work area
Receive and store merchandise in accordance with the company's established standards
Comply with government health and safety standards and occupational health and safety standards.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$36,289
$49,637
$67,615
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
213expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school may be required.
On-the-job training in food stores is usually offered to meat cutters and fishmongers for retail sale.
An apprenticeship program in meat cutting is available but voluntary.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Meat cutters and fishmongers - retail and wholesale in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Meatcutters
Skilled Trades Certification - Meatcutters
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a meatcutter in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.