Butchers and Meat Cutters
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$40,140/yr
Typical range
$35,510 – $48,050
Education
High school diploma
Time to entry
No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning
What a Butchers and Meat Cutters does
You'll cut and trim meat to specifications for retail sale or food preparation, using specialized knives and knowledge of different cuts. This role requires food safety awareness and skill in breaking down animal products efficiently.
Education & path
The typical entry point is a high school diploma. No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning.
Estimated cost of that path: No degree cost. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.
Related careers
- First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers — $74,450/yr
- Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers — $48,570/yr
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers — $53,750/yr
- Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders — $43,220/yr
- Machinists — $58,750/yr
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