Of course they cut up meat, but they need lots of other skills as well: 

• Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
• Able to work as a member of a team.
• Interact with customers, making them smile, and serving their needs.
• Work consistently to a high standard, in a hygienic and safe manner.
• Using artistic flair to create, present and display meat and meat products.
• Have a genuine interest in food with many businesses making their own ready to eat, barbecue and kitchen ready products.

So what about the job prospects?

Good news for young people – the average age of a butcher is over 50, therefore the managers and owners of today will be looking to retire in a few years time, leaving excellent career prospects for those prepared to work hard and learn.

How to find out if the meat trade is for you.

The meat trade is a very large and diverse industry employing thousands of people with jobs ranging from a trainee butcher to abattoir personnel, food processors, quality assurance and micro biologists, food technicians, charge hands and supervisors, production and sales managers and cooks.

1. Make an appointment with your local butcher to find out about the trade.
2. Alternatively contact [email protected] and we will try and arrange a visit to a butchers’ in your area.
3. If you know you want to be a butcher but have not got a job, contact [email protected] and we will help you to find a job in your area.
4. If you have a job in the industry and would like to gain recognised qualifications for the job you’re already doing and aged between 16-60 contact [email protected].
5. If you would like information on short butchery and meat processing courses, to learn new skills or update your skills and knowledge. Try contacting one of our training providers near to you from the details on the homepage.