Position Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Retail Butcher Specialist specializing in the breakdown and fabrication of beef primal and subprimal cuts into premium retail, wholesale, and culinary portions. This role requires advanced knife skills, extensive knowledge of beef anatomy, precise cutting techniques, and the ability to maximize yield while maintaining exceptional product quality and presentation standards.
The ideal candidate possesses expertise in transforming whole carcasses and primal cuts into custom steaks, roasts, and specialty cuts. This position reports to the VP of Sales.
Key Responsibilities
· Beef Fabrication & Precision Cutting
· Break down beef primal and subprimal cuts into premium retail and food-service portions.
Execute precise fabrication of:
o Ribeye steaks
o New York strip steaks
o Filet mignon
o Porterhouse and T-bone steaks
o Tomahawk steaks
o Denver steaks
o Flat iron steaks
o Bavette steaks
o Tri-tip roasts
o Picanha
o Chuck-eye steaks
· Perform advanced trimming procedures to remove excess fat, silver skin, connective tissue, and defects while preserving maximum yield.
· Produce uniform cuts according to weight, thickness, and customer specifications.
· Maintain consistency across all fabricated products.
Quality Control
· Inspect incoming beef for marbling, color, texture, freshness, and overall quality.
· Identify and segregate products that fail to meet quality standards.
· Ensure all cuts meet premium gourmet presentation requirements.
· Monitor product temperatures and storage conditions throughout processing.
Yield Optimization
· Maximize utilization of all primal sections.
· Minimize trim loss and product waste through efficient fabrication techniques.
· Evaluate cutting methods to improve profitability and consistency.
· Separate trim for grinding, value-added products, or specialty applications.
Custom Orders & Specialty Programs
· Fulfill custom steak thicknesses, portion weights, and chef specifications.
· Prepare dry-aged and wet-aged beef products when applicable.
· Create specialty cuts for fine dining restaurants, luxury retailers, and discerning clientele.
· Provide recommendations regarding alternative cuts and value-added products.
Equipment Operation
· Safely operate:
· Band saws
· Cryovac’s
· Portioning equipment
· Meat slicers
· Scale systems
· Packaging equipment
Inventory Management
· Assist with receiving and inspecting beef shipments.
· Rotate inventory
· Monitor stock levels of primal cuts and fabrication supplies.
· Record production yields and inventory adjustments.
· Required Qualifications
· 3+ years of professional butchering experience, preferably in gourmet retail, premium meat processing, or high-end culinary environments.
· Advanced knowledge of beef carcass anatomy and muscle structure.
· Demonstrated expertise in primal and subprimal beef fabrication.
· Exceptional knife handling and sharpening skills.
· Ability to accurately portion cuts by weight and specification.
· Strong understanding of meat quality grading systems, including USDA Prime, Choice, and Select.
· Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation standards.
· Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 75 pounds.
Core Competencies
· Precision and attention to detail
· Advanced knife proficiency
· Yield management
· Product presentation
· Food safety awareness
· Time management
· Quality-focused mindset
· Customer service and communication
· Team collaboration
· Problem-solving
Physical Requirements
· Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
· Ability to work in refrigerated environments.
· Frequent lifting of 50–75 pounds.
· Repetitive use of hands, wrists, and arms.
· Ability to safely handle sharp cutting tools and powered processing equipment.
Performance Metrics
· Fabrication yield percentage
· Portion accuracy
· Product quality scores
· Customer satisfaction
· Waste reduction
· Food safety compliance
· Production efficiency
· Inventory accuracy
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person