Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers
Overview
Meat cutters and trimmers work in food processing facilities where they inspect, cut, and prepare meat, poultry, and seafood for grocery stores and restaurants. They use specialized tools like knives, cleavers, and bandsaws to remove unwanted parts like bones, skin, and excess fat, then cut the meat into specific portions that customers want to buy. This hands-on job requires precision, attention to detail, and knowledge of food safety standards. Many meat cutters work in temperature-controlled environments and collaborate with teams to ensure high-quality products reach consumers.
Did you know?
Must obtain and maintain certifications like ServSafe or HACCP to comply with strict USDA and FDA regulations governing meat handling in the United States.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$37,578.16 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Persuasion
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare ready-to-heat foods by filleting meat or fish or cutting it into bite-sized pieces, preparing and adding vegetables or applying sauces or breading.
- Produce hamburger meat and meat trimmings.
- Process primal parts into cuts that are ready for retail use.
- Clean, trim, slice, and section carcasses for future processing.
- Cut and trim meat to prepare for packing.
- Obtain and distribute specified meat or carcass.
- Separate meats and byproducts into specified containers and seal containers.
- Clean and salt hides.
- Weigh meats and tag containers for weight and contents.
- Inspect meat products for defects, bruises or blemishes and remove them along with any excess fat.
- Use knives, cleavers, meat saws, bandsaws, or other equipment to perform meat cutting and trimming.
- Remove parts, such as skin, feathers, scales or bones, from carcass.
Career Considerations
Food Safety Certification Requirements
Must obtain and maintain certifications like ServSafe or HACCP to comply with strict USDA and FDA regulations governing meat handling in the United States.
Physical Demands and Workplace Safety
The role involves significant physical strain including standing for long periods, lifting heavy cuts, and using sharp tools, requiring adherence to OSHA safety standards.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Can progress to supervisory roles, become a head butcher, or transition into meat department management within grocery chains or specialty meat markets.